President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded his inaugural "State of the Nation" address to Parliament by reciting the lyrics of the song, "Send Me/ Thuma Mina", by Hugh Masekela. The phrase, based on a biblical passage and deeply rooted in South Africa's choral tradition, has swept the nation, prompting many to send Ramaphosa messages saying simply, "Send Me".
Professor Tinyiko Maluleke explains the origins of the song and unpacks its connotations of service to the nation after an era during which, he writes, President Jacob Zuma "was averse to taking personal responsibility and appeared incapable of countenancing personal sacrifice."
And in a few of the dozens of video clips which can be found on YouTube, choirs and musical groups showcase the many versions of the song.
When President Cyril Ramaphosa quoted – in his inaugural address to South Africa's Parliament – the song "Send Me" by Hugh Masekela, he was not only honouring the… Read more »
Hugh Masekela described himself as "a good receiver of the gifts of the people I come from". Send Me was one such gift, received from the African ... see more »
President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded his speech by quoting Hugh Masekela's 'Thuma Mina', saying now is the time for South Africans to lend a hand. (The ... see more »
The chorus traditionally sung in churches has also spread through the world. One of many recordings on YouTube, from Europe to the Americas and the ... see more »
Hugh Masekela's song "Thuma Mina" has become an anthem, bringing back a sense of belonging to the vast of majority of our people who were despondent and felt dejected, angrily… Read more »
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