Seeing the Pudulogong Rehabilitation Centre music shine on stage one could be mistaken for doubting if indeed all the members were visually challenged.In the early 90s Anna Fiki was the golden voice at the fore of the band. Her performance of tracks like Heita Da and Swahili left behind a trail of cheers and tears from admiring audiences.Later other talented musicians in the mould of the late Don B (Donald Botshelo) and Pastrica Kgole carried the button forward.But now the Pudulogong Rehabilitation Centre's music band seems to have gone into limbo in recent years.
A change of strategy at the centre is reported to be the main cause. The focus is more on music training than establishing a permanent band.Kgole has gone through the ranks to become a music trainer at the institution and insists what is more important is to produce future music stars who can use their skills for survival.Training coordinator Themba Sibanda shared the same sentiments saying that lack of funds has hindered their plans to have a permanent band."This band has been the pride of the institution and continues to impress when ever invited to perform. But we do not have the resources to keep a permanent band because that would entail accommodation, allowances and other things," Sibanda said.Sibanda stated that the institution takes music seriously, adding that all students including those enrolled for other courses were eager to learn.
