The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe has learnt with great shock, news of the passing on of Ephraim Sithole (47) of Victoria Falls-based imbube outfit Amazulu Cultural Ensemble.

By Mr Nicholas Moyo, Director « National Arts Council of Zimbabwe

Sithole who died in Bulawayo on Wednesday 07 July 2021, was one of the founding members of the group in 1990 and as its lead vocalist, they managed to establish themselves as a vibrant music and dance ensemble which has matured and garnered much respect in the Imbube acapella music sub-genre.

Based in Victoria Falls, Ephraim and Amazulu, the eight-member male vocalists’ group, entertained many local and international hotel guests with their acapella music and interactive drumming.

With Ephraim on the lead vocals, the group recorded one Album “On Our Own” which featured the Hit Single “In the jungle” which enjoyed local and international radio airplay. Amazulu headlined many local and international shows including Miss Zimbabwe Peagenat, Friday Live at Amakhosi, Music Crossroads Competition, NAMA Awards and various local Galas. 

With the group, Ephraim toured the United Kingdom (2004) Swaziland (2005) and South Africa (2006). Ephraim’s vocal abilities were one of the key factors that led the group to bag a contract to entertain guests at the world-famous Boma Restaurant at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge which ran from 1995 to 2012 and a NAMA Award.

As NACZ we mourn with the entire Imbube family for the loss of Ephraim, the voice of Amazulu. May His Soul Rest in peace. Ephraim will be buried in Bulawayo on Saturday the 10^th  of July 2021. Mourners are gathered at House number 1774 in Nkulumane.