By Fidelis Manyange
DURING the 2025 Independence Day celebrations in Matabeleland South, held on April 18 at Plumtree High School, it wasn’t just the music or military displays that left a lasting impression. While celebrated performers like Sotja Moyo and Black Umfolosi captivated the crowd alongside vibrant displays from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS), it was a commanding voice from Bulilima that truly stole the show. In the weeks since then, one name continues to echo with admiration.
It is that of Bolsheviks Progress Ndlovu, the charismatic master of ceremonies whose blend of eloquence, rhythm, and patriotic flair made him the unexpected star of the day. Donning a military green outfi t complemented by a matching beret, Bolsheviks captivated the audience with his rhythmic announcements and poetic flair. His voice, rich with cultural resonance, echoed through the venue, drawing cheers and ululations from dignitaries and attendees alike.
Among the notable figures present were the Minister of State for Provincial Aff airs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe; Bulawayo Provincial Aff airs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube; Matabeleland North Provincial Aff airs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo; and Deputy Minister of ICT Postal and Courier Services Dingumuzi Phuti.
Born in 1982 at Bulawayo’s Mpilo Hospital, Ndlovu hails from Matjinge Ward 5 in Bulilima. His unusual name, Bolsheviks, was bestowed upon him by his mother, a former freedom fi ghter, drawing inspiration from the Russian term ‘bolshinstvo’, meaning ‘majority’. From a young age, Ndlovu exhibited a strong passion for the arts. While attending Matjinge High School, he began exploring his artistic talents, delving into imbube, a Ndebele acappella choral music genre characterised by powerful harmonies and praise poetry. His mesmerising performances turned him into an overnight celebrity among his teachers and peers. In 2002, while at Embakwe High School, Ndlovu’s prowess in poetry was recognised when he won a Textbook Sales Award for Ndebele Poem Writing.
This accolade bolstered his confi dence, propelling him further into the literary world. To hone his craft, he sought guidance from the late Ndabezinhle Sibanda Sigogo, a revered Ndebele author, and collaborated with the late Pathisa Nyathi to establish the Bulawayo Poets Association (BUPA). Between 2003 and 2004, Ndlovu contributed to a poetry column in Zimpapers’ weekly vernacular newspaper, Umthunywa. Ndlovu’s literary contributions include three poetry anthologies archived in the Zimbabwe National Archives: Semiyedwa Umanyathela, Ngakulela koMalume, and Ngeze Ngivume. Each anthology comprises over 50 poems, refl ecting on various facets of life.
Ngakulela koMalume, for instance, delves into his childhood experiences growing up under his uncle’s care, highlighting the challenges and lessons that shaped his life and art. Beyond personal narratives, Ndlovu’s poetry often addresses societal issues. In poems like Ebhawa and Etshwaleni, he critiques the moral degradation observed among today’s youth, particularly their frequenting of nightclubs and bars. His works also pay homage to revolutionary fi gures such as the late Vice-President Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo and poet Ndabezinhle Sigogo, acknowledging their contributions to Zimbabwe’s cultural and political landscape.
Ndlovu’s style of praise poetry draws from Izibongo Zamakhosi, a traditional form of oral poetry in Ndebele culture that celebrates the history and achievements of leaders. He seamlessly integrates this tradition into his role as a master of ceremonies, infusing events with cultural depth and historical context. His artistic journey also led him into the realm of music. Recognising his musical inclinations, Ndlovu established a jazz band named Chocolates and Roses, which performs in Bulawayo, the Victoria Falls, and other notable venues in Matabeleland.
The band, affi liated with the Victoria Falls Arts Assembly, originated in Plumtree’s Mangwe Road area and was known for its afro-jazz beats intertwined with poetic elements. Ndlovu cites Mzwakhe Mbuli and Albert Nyathi as signifi cant infl uences on his musical endeavours. One of Ndlovu’s most memorable performances occurred during a rally in Malalume, where he recited his poems in the presence of the late Vice President Cde Joseph Msika.
Performing before his community and such a distinguished guest remains a cherished highlight of his artistic career. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Ndlovu is deeply involved in political and community activities. He serves as the provincial chairman for the Children of Zimbabwe War Veterans’ Association (ZLWVCA) in Matabeleland South. Under his leadership, the association has been instrumental in establishing district structures across the province, with the objective of empowering the off spring of liberation war veterans and preserve the legacy of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. The ZLWVCA’s initiatives include mobilising members, promoting patriotism, and facilitating economic empowerment projects.
Ndlovu’s commitment to community development extends to vocational training. He has acquired skills in brick and block laying, tiling, tailoring, welding, and plumbing, setting an example for youth in his area. His multifaceted involvement in arts, politics, and community service positions him as a burgeoning leader in Matabeleland South,ures like Sotja Moyo, Solomon Skuza, Ndux Malax, Khumbulani Moyo, Dingumuzi Phuti, Chase Skuza, Tukuye Super Sounds and Ndolwane Sounds.