Nhlanhla Mafu, celebrated singer of the South African music group Mafikizolo, recently revealed her struggle with hearing loss, as reported by Tshisa LIVE. As she prepares to promote Professor’s new song, Tsamaya, on which she is featured, Nhlanhla shared her journey with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and her efforts to raise awareness about the condition.
Nhlanhla’s entry into the music industry dates back to 1997 when she, along with Theo and the late Tebogo, launched Mafikizolo with their self-titled debut album. Reflecting on her career, she recounted the lack of awareness regarding hearing protection in the industry. “When I came into the music industry, there was no education about the importance of hearing and being provided with hearing protective equipment. I have had to perform at stages around the world for the past 27 years exposed to high levels of noise during my stage performances, studio sessions, and music listening sessions, where music would be played at very high volume levels,” she explained.
Between 2012 and 2013, Nhlanhla began to suspect that she might have hearing challenges but felt too afraid and ashamed to speak up due to the stigma surrounding hearing loss. It wasn’t until 2022 that she finally consulted an audiologist and received a diagnosis of noise-induced hearing loss. “From my diagnosis, I have decided to use my platform to educate about NIHL. I speak in mining communities, music conferences, and industries to promote the importance of hearing. I was recently invited to the Coal Safe Conference where I addressed mining delegates on the importance of hearing,” Nhlanhla shared.
Despite her hearing challenges, Nhlanhla remains active in the music scene. She recently collaborated with award-winning kwaito star Professor on his new track, *Tsamaya*. Speaking about their collaboration, she said, “Professor approached me a while back as he had been wanting for us to work together on a project. An opportunity arose after the Covid-19 pandemic, before my solo performance bookings and Mafikizolo bookings started picking up again, we went into the studio. The song was recorded in 2022. The chemistry in the studio was great because Professor and I go way back.”
As she continues to make music and raise awareness, her message resonates with many who face similar challenges.
