The song “Neria” by Oliver Mtukudzi tells the moving story of a woman left alone after her husband’s death. She faces grief and injustice but refuses to give up. Mtukudzi sings about her courage, resilience, and the inner strength of women to persevere despite hardship. The lyrics express compassion and solidarity, calling on society to support women in times of struggle.

In Zimbabwe the song has become a cultural icon because it evokes a strong sense of recognition and pride. The song touched on a sensitive issue in a society where widows often lacked protection after losing their husbands. Oliver Mtukudzi’s compassionate and respectful portrayal of this reality earned him widespread admiration. The film “Neria”, which featured the song, further amplified its influence, making it not just a hit, but a lasting symbol of justice and dignity.

It is a song about the empowerment of women. It depicts the struggle widows face to avoid losing their possessions to their deceased husband's greedy relatives. The song takes a strong stand against this practice.

My name is Corinne Boswinkel. In 2009, I moved from Zimbabwe to Enschede with my husband and our two daughters, where I have been a teacher and cultural counselor at the International School Twente ever since.