A talented young South African girl, Ibanathi Mpungose, has taken social media by storm after she reimagined Beyoncé's hit song "Brown Skin Girl" to create a cry for justice for Cwecwe.
The seven-year-old girl was allegedly raped at Bergview College in the Eastern Cape in October last year. This case has sparked a national outcry, with citizens rallying to support the victim and demanding justice.
Nine-year-old Ibanathi debuted her song on her social media accounts, appealing to the authorities to take action against acts of gender-based violence.
@ibanathimpungose As a South African young girl, Ibanathi Mpungose, like others, has been greatly disturbed by the Cwecwe issue. She has decided to show her support by tweaking her amended 'Brown Skin Girl' song, apealing to the authorities to take action and at the same time comforting Cwecwe. #JusticeforCwecwe #IbanathiMpungose ♬ original sound - Ibanathi Mpungose
Ibanathi’s music video has racked up thousands of views and shares, with social media users flooding the comment section, praising her song and its powerful message.
The talented youngster is a musician and content creator who started making music with her father, Siyabonga Mpungose, in 2020.
Ibanathi’s dedication to the craft has led to the creation of a heartfelt song that has connected deeply with listeners. The song's impactful message and expressive vocals showcase the duo's creative collaboration and support for the Justice for Cwecwe movement.
Ibanathi’s father shared in an interview with IOL that making music has always been part of their lives.
“My daughter's early interest in music was greatly influenced by her love for TV shows that feature music. She would watch movies about high school musical groups, Cocomelon cartoons, and Sarafina. Music has always played a significant role in her life, and I’m proud to be part of her journey,” said the father.
South Africans embrace Ibanathi's song
Ibanathi’s song speaks about the pain Cwecwe is enduring after she was sexually assaulted. The song describes how, as children, they are tired of this act of violence against them and demand the authorities to bring change and put an end to the struggles facing children and women. The song ALSO celebrates cwecwe's strength and beauty.
Ibanathi’s video clip has gained over one million views with 113,000 likes, and more than 3,000 comments and shares. The video has sparked a wave of emotional responses and heartfelt comments.
Social media users have resonated deeply with her song and expressed their admiration for Ibanathi’s courage. The fans are rallying behind the cause and sharing their experience about the Cwecwe rape case and how it has affected them.
Lithemba Vas posted on TikTok, saying: "It starts hitting hard when she says akekho ofana nawe, you beautiful your strong uyimbokodo unamandla."
Precious Makombe also commended: "Thank u nana for standing up for Cwecwe,she will feel more special if the message is conveyed by her peers.....Ibanathi."
Tshediso Matlotloshe's post read: "Always been a good singer from her early age, thanks for composing this song regarding cwecwe's justice."
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