SA musician denied entry into Zim

SOUTH AFRICAN musician Daniel Ndibiseni Tshandu was on Wednesday denied entry into Zimbabwe by immigration officials at Bulawayo’s Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport for using an emergency travel document (ETD).

SOUTH AFRICAN musician Daniel Ndibiseni Tshandu was on Wednesday denied entry into Zimbabwe by immigration officials at Bulawayo’s Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport for using an emergency travel document (ETD).

BY NQOBANI NDLOVU

Tshandu, popularly known as Dan Tshanda, was expected in the country for preparatory meetings ahead of shows set for Beitbridge (August 28), Bulawayo (August 29) and Harare (October 5).

Peacock, Matshikos and Dalom Kids were set to back Tshanda.

The musician on Wednesday evening confirmed he had been denied entry into Zimbabwe at the airport for using an ETD. Sekunjalo Investments and Promotions Company, the promoters of Tshanda’s shows, also confirmed the development.

“I was told that my ETD is not valid in Zimbabwe. They (immigration officials) also refused to stamp my passport because it was left with two pages on it.

“I am disappointed I failed to make it to Zimbabwe to meet the promoters ahead of the show,” Tshanda said in a telephone interview.

Sekunjalo director Dave Ncube said they had made all the necessary arrangements for the artiste.

“At least, this has given us an opportunity to let people know that immigration officials at airports do not entertain ETDs. We had made all the arrangements for him to be with us, but unfortunately, he was turned away for the simple reason that he was using an ETD.

“We tried talking to the immigration officials, but to no avail. Otherwise, the show is still on, everything is on course, we promise fans a massive show.

“We have organised the best sound system from our service providers (Sound Culture), it’s the best sound you can ever think of.”

No comment could be obtained from immigration officials at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport as the phones rang unanswered.