Online Reporter
Tafara Chibanda
ZIMBABWE’S reggae music scene is set for a major boost when the Reggae Brunch event takes place on March 22 at Sherwood Golf Club in Harare.
As reggae music struggles to reclaim its prominence, the upcoming event aims to breathe new life into the genre.
Organised by Russell Mavudzi and promoted by UK-based Bernard Chambati, the initiative is focused on reviving reggae culture and providing a platform for local artists to gain recognition.
In an interview with H-Metro, Chambati, the event’s promoter, stressed the importance of creating opportunities for reggae musicians who have often been sidelined in the Zimbabwean music industry.
“For years, reggae has been overlooked by music promoters, making it difficult for artists to thrive.
“Through Reggae Brunch ZW, we want to revive the culture, highlight reggae’s influence and give artists the recognition they deserve,” he said.
The event will feature an exciting line-up of reggae artists, including House of Stone Band, Satisfaction, Cello Culture and Transit Crew, Mannex Motsi, Celcius and Zunde Band, Ras Caleb and Pure Niceness Band, Moosafa and Natural Mystic Band, Sister Kessia popularly known as Muchaneta.
“We plan to expand the initiative beyond Harare, ensuring that reggae artists across the country have a chance to perform.
“Moosafa, an artist from Bindura, exemplifies this push to include musicians from outside the capital,” he said.
In addition to offering performance opportunities, the event will serve as a networking hub for artists, producers, and industry professionals and organisers.
Chambati confirmed that the initiative will not stop in Harare but will expand to other major cities and eventually beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
“Through consistent efforts, we can build a strong foundation for Zimbabwean reggae and ensure its continued growth both locally and internationally,” he said.
The event manager Russwell Mavudzi said:
“Reggae has always been a voice of unity and empowerment, playing a crucial role during our liberation struggle.
“Bob Marley’s legendary 1980 performance during Zimbabwe’s independence celebrations left a lasting impact, and we want to keep that spirit alive.
“Our goal is to create a movement that fosters community appreciation of reggae’s messages and long-term opportunities for artists.
“The genre has a deep connection to Zimbabwean history and we believe this event can reignite that bond.”
Kessia Masina, known as Muchaneta, who is billed to be one of the key performers, said;
“I am honoured to be part of this show, which is bringing reggae back to life.
“My career started in reggae when I was 19, performing with Ras Trevor Hall and the Crucial Mix Showcase Band.
“Over the years, reggae has taken a backseat to other genres, but this event is a reminder that reggae is about love, unity, and healing,” she said.
Mathew Masinge