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It was fun packed as Bindura came alive last weekend when SOS Children’s Villages in conjunction with Chipawo Zimbabwe commemorated the International Day of Families which saw all centres and parents attending.
The event, which ran under the theme “Advancing social integration and inter-generational solidarity”, was meant to give children a platform to showcase their talent in the presence of parents, guardians and patrons.
Music, dance, drama, poetry competitions were the order of the day at the village.
The children danced to contemporary songs putting up scintillating performances which had made on lookers green with envy.
On traditional dances, Chipawo Bindura was the crowd’s favourite when they wowed the audience with their energetic dances.
“The day will go a long way in developing our lifestyles. I didn’t know that Bindura was talented. I love dancing and I have learnt a thing or two from the group, it is just that my heart bleeds when I see such talent lying idle.
“I believe the media should play a pivotal role in assisting such people not only in Harare, but the country as a whole. I thank the Cool Lifestyle team who came to cover and support us,” said Tatenda Maruvatadya (18) from Bindura.
Tatenda, who was a first time attendee, said he was blessed, not lucky to be there.
“I am happy to attend the commemorations. From now on I am joining the dance organisation in Bindura because I have seen something in dance as a form of art. I have learnt how to communicate through dancing,” explained the cheerful lad.
On the girls’ side, the teenagers proved that they have got the groove as they danced and strutted.
“Don’t tell us what to do, but rather involve us in your programmes. Girls are being sidelined, but how many African women are changing the world with their ideas and minds?
My role model is Vice President Joice Mujuru, a woman of valour and integrity,” said Pauline (17).
Pauline, who recited a poem on child abuse and how it can be solved, said the day should not only be commemorated annually, but everyday.
“We live with families everyday so why having a day set aside rather practising what we preach, thus love everyday,” she said.
Children’s Trust performed a play on children’s rights and abuse which was very educative and informative.
The drama, which touched on societal issues, saw more than 100 children paying attention on the act while enjoying the snacks served by their aunts from their organisation.
The village itself serves as an art centre for children. Chipawo Zimbabwe manager Chipo Basopo, who was the guest of honour, said a village is not only built by parents, but children lighten the village.
“Children should be supported in any way. I am astonished by the type of talent displayed here. The onus is on us to support and nurture that talent as arts can sustain livelihoods if taken seriously. Bindura is rich with talented and vibrant youngsters same as Harare, but the only problem is the resources and opportunity spaces,” she said.
Chipo, who took time to play with the children, said it was the duty of the elders to teach children about their culture and heritage.
“Charity begins at home. As we commemorate this day let us use our home well by having time with our parents and guardians. We can use that opportunity to learn about ourselves, cultural heritage. As a family we have totems, do we fully know and understand them or it is only that we start mourning when Westernisation has destroyed our lifestyles,” she said.
Cool Lifestyle was there and oh, boy it was awesome.
Online Reporter