A Maskandi artist has lost his most valuable possession, his acoustic guitar. And he doesn’t know if he’ll be able to cope without it.
This after a fire burned down George Gogh squatter camp on Thursday, 11 March.
Ayanda Mbatha told the publication his guitar was part of his journey from KwaMaqanda in KZN to Joburg to look for opportunities. He said he wasn’t where he would like to be, but he was making progress because of that guitar.
“I’m juggling driving a taxi and doing part-time jobs at a market in Joburg to raise money,” he said.
The 28-year-old said he needed about R5 000 to buy a new guitar, but this might not be possible with the money he makes.
“I’ve had the guitar since 2013. I used to perform at gatherings and for my friends. I loved it with all my heart. Whenever I played I felt this is what I was born for,” he said.
Ayanda recorded his first album in 2013 at the legendary Downtown Studios and people loved his work.
“I’ve been playing the guitar for so long. It was like my best friend. It helped me through everything. I’m really sad it’s gone,” said Ayanda.
He said he was saving up to buy a new guitar.
“But now it’s back to square one. I need to start rebuilding my shack, so buying a new guitar won’t happen anytime soon,” said Ayanda.
Joburg emergency services spokesman Robert Mulaudzi said shack fires in Joburg have destroyed more than 500 homes since January.
“Causes range from issues such as illegal connections, dangerous heating and lighting methods such as candles, to open fires,” said Mulaudzi.
He urged residents to be careful at all times.
-daily sun
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