The Drakensberg Boys Choir recorded a powerful traditional Xhosa prayer to pay tribute to, and pray for, those affected by the unrest in South Africa during the last week.
They shared a message on social media, with the release of their song.
“After the devastation wrought upon our country this past week, the Drakensberg Boys Choir sings of hope, unity and in salutation of all those South Africans who these past few days have worked to bring order and restoration to our Rainbow Nation.
“We stand as one with our brothers, sisters, elders and community leaders, knowing we will rise from the ashes stronger, more determined and more committed to our ideals as a nation,” they said on Facebook.
The prayer, titled Ndikhokhele Bawo, Ndikhokhele Mmeli wami…ezintsizini zalo Mhlaba translated means -Lead me oh dear Father, Lead me my Saviour through the hardships of this World.
The collaboration was recorded individually by members of the choir at their homes due to the lockdown restrictions.
They also shared the lyrics of the song, translated to English for all South Africans to listen to the messaging behind the prayer.
Ndikhokhele Lyrics –[Xhosa to English]
Ndikhokhele Bawo, zundi kokhele (Lead me oh Father [Lead me])
Ndikhokhele mmeli wami (Lead me my savior)
Ezintsizini, Zalomhlaba Bawo (in all the sorrows of this world Father)
Bawo, Bawo, Bawo ( Father, Father, Father)
Bawo ndiyabonga (Father I thank you)
Ngoba wena usandigcinile (for you still protect/keep me)(Repeat)
Thaluthele thuze kwami (You calm all my fears) x2
Bawo, bawo, bawo ( Father, Father, Father)
Bawo ndiyabonga (Father I thank you)
Ngoba wena usandigcinile (for you still protect me)
Mmeli wami bawo uthaluthele thuze kwami (Father, Savior, you calm my fears)
Bawo ndiyabonga (Father I thank you)
Ngoba wena usandigcinile (for you still protect me)
“Well done our special boys! You continue to amaze us. This is so beautiful. Thank you to the magic staff behind the scenes who made this happen. We appreciate you!!! God bless our beautiful SA,” said one Facebook user.
“Deeply moved. Thank you 
” – said another.
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