Bongani Mtyawentombi, known professionally as Maritela, is a Free State-born musician from Welkom’s Thabong township who has been steadily building his reputation in the local music industry.
Originally known as “Magidela” before adopting his current stage name, Maritela’s educational journey began at the Bofihla Primary School before transferring to the Mojaho Primary School two years later, where he remained until Gr.8.
In 2009, he progressed to the Lephola Secondary High School.
Maritela specialises in Pantsula culture and Kwaito-style location music (New Age Kwaito), genres that reflect his deep connection to township life.
His recording career began in 2009 as part of a group called Dynamites and Datz Finest.
After four years of collaboration, Maritela decided to pursue a solo career in 2013, releasing a mixtape titled Re Phusher Swagger, which featured 11 tracks.
Throughout his career, Maritela has benefited from the support of producer Itumeleng Mathule, known as ZagieBeats, whom he regards as a brother. His collaborative network has expanded to include artists such as Phlyvocals, Coolkiid Da Vocalist, Sebata, Epic DJ, AndreaDaBeatboxer, Ntate Ngaka, and Tieho Khakhau.
In 2018, Maritela released “Tjovitjo,” followed by its music video in 2020. The same year saw the release of his single “Jaiva” featuring Berita_M. His participation in the Ts’epe Friday competition proved pivotal when his victory led to collaboration with Kommanda Obbs, a rapper, producer, and tutor who founded Ts’epe Sethuamajoe.
The year 2022 marked a significant milestone when Maritela released the “Casablanca/Jaiva” music video. His partnership with DJ Original, a Delasound member, began in 2023.
In 2024, Maritela met John Dee Messiah, a young producer from Virginia, beginning a productive working relationship that continues today. In 2025 he also saw successful collaborations with Serame and Welkom Side, resulting in the Amapiano hit “Kwenzakalani” featuring Dah Eddie.
Towards the end of 2025, working again with John Dee, the team produced “Dickies” featuring Ruth Da Vocalist and Ta-Bongz.
Beyond his musical pursuits, Maritela is a member of the Welkom Dickies Lovers Club, dedicated to making positive impacts within the community.
