Nisha Ts’ “Mabhonzo” Prepares the Way for Woman King

Nisha Ts, born Tashinga Shonhiwa, is set to release her debut album Woman King on the 13th of September. As a precursor, she has unveiled Mabhonzo—a track layered with imagery about grief, absence, and the struggles children endure after losing a parent.

By Tinashe Mutero

On the surface, Mabhonzo tells the story of a child left behind. But beneath the melody lies a depth that reveals Nisha Ts’ maturity as a writer. Take, for instance, the refrain:

“Mabhonzo ekuti vakadya nyama / Ndinozoona ndosuka mangwana” —loosely translated as, “Bones that show others ate meat; I only see them tomorrow when washing dishes.”

Here, Nisha Ts is not just talking about leftovers; she’s exposing a stark reality. The child is excluded from the feast, left only with bones to clean. Yet in Shona, mabhonzo also evokes death itself—the bones of the deceased. Through this double meaning, Nisha Ts creates a powerful bridge: while washing away the remnants of yesterday’s meal, the child is also confronted with the painful memory of their mother, now reduced to bones in the earth.

Another striking moment comes in the “Daddy” verse:

“Daddy kana vauya voita disguise / But pamba pacho havagari.” (“When Daddy comes, they put on a disguise, but at home he never stays.”)

Here, Nisha Ts exposes the painful dynamics of life after a mother’s death. Mabhonzo becomes a powerful critique of the performance of family love: kindness shown only in the presence of outsiders, but cruelty when no one is watching. This blending of personal grief with social commentary is what makes Mabhonzo extraordinary. Nisha Ts is not only mourning her mother, but also highlighting the wider consequences of loss—fractured families, silent suffering, and the burden placed on children to grow up too fast.

Musically, Nisha Ts’ raspy sincerity and gift for crafting simple yet memorable melodies ensure that the song remains a sing-along, even while grappling with heavy themes. It’s this duality—sorrow carried on a catchy rhythm—that makes her artistry so compelling.

The launch of Woman King will take place at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex. Sharing the stage with her will be Voltz JT, Kikky Badass, Saint Floew, Chillmaster, Ninety6, and Young Gemini—a lineup that reflects Zimbabwe’s dynamic new urban wave. These artists, though relatively fresh, are already shaping the nation’s soundscape, making this event not only a celebration of Nisha Ts, but also of a rising generation.

Nisha Ts is the King she believes she is! Mutarisi made a good call.