Online Reporter
Nodumo Moyo, [email protected]
Award-winning imbube and isicathamiya ensemble Amaqaqa is set to make its long-awaited Zambian debut this weekend. The nine-member outfit, which has previously performed in Eswatini, South Africa and Botswana, will embark on a three-day performance schedule that blends traditional celebrations, festival performances and cultural exchange.
Speaking ahead of the trip, founding member Khulekani Sibanda, popularly known as Khabo, said performing in Zambia has been a long-held ambition for the group.
“We’ve always dreamt of taking our music to Zambia. Every new country we perform in is another opportunity to represent Zimbabwean culture and connect with new audiences through imbube and isicathamiya music,” he said.
The group’s tour begins on Friday with a performance at a traditional event in Nangoma, Mumbwa District, where they will share the stage with the Zambia Soul Brothers. On Saturday, they will perform at a festival in Lusaka before concluding the visit with a wedding performance on Sunday.
Sibanda said Zambian audiences can expect an energetic showcase featuring songs from Amaqaqa’s latest album, Inkemba: The Sword. The album includes tracks such as Amathendele, Two Are Better Than One, Utshwala and the title track Inkemba, all carrying messages centred on culture, love, faith and hope.
“We want people to experience not only our music, but also the values that inspire it. Every song tells a story and reflects who we are as a group,” he said.
Preparations for the trip have included intensive rehearsals, prayer and meticulous planning, with the group hopeful the performances will pave the way for more invitations across the region.
Beyond entertaining audiences, Amaqaqa views the visit as an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning.
“We’re looking forward to the warmth of the Zambian people because they’ve preserved their culture and traditions.
Artistically, we’re excited to experience the sound of Zambia because we believe we can learn a great deal from each other,” said Sibanda.
The group also expressed admiration for Zambia’s thriving music industry, saying it would welcome opportunities to collaborate with local artistes during or after the visit.
Founded in 2018 by Sibanda, Amaqaqa has built a reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s leading imbube groups. The ensemble’s mission is to promote its unique musical identity while spreading messages of peace, unity and the love of God. Since 2021, the group has released four albums – Ibhod’elishisayo, Ezosinga, Ngicel’ Eliny’ithuba Baba and its latest offering, Inkemba: The Sword, earning multiple accolades for its contribution to traditional music.
