Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
BOLAMBA Culture Birds founder, Mthabisi “Mtee” Dube, has launched an emergency health company aimed at providing first aid and on-site medical services to artists and sports personnel during events and on the field of play.
The venture, named Mtee Sports & Arts Medics, was established in June this year. It serves as a strategic move to diversify income streams for members of Bolamba Culture Birds, reducing their reliance solely on performance gigs.
The Covid-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerability of many arts groups, with several folding due to an inability to perform and a lack of alternative revenue streams. Mtee said the formation of this new company is a proactive step to ensure sustainability and preparedness for similar challenges in the future.
A qualified and registered nurse, Dube said the absence of proper medical services at entertainment and sports events prompted him to bridge the gap between his healthcare profession and his passion for the arts.
“As an artiste, I observed a worrying trend at high-profile events and sports activities, people getting injured on the field, incidents of assault often fuelled by alcohol, and even deaths from excessive bleeding,” said Mtee.
“That’s when I realised I could integrate my medical profession with my arts background to offer immediate health services at such gatherings.”
Since its launch, Mtee Sports & Arts Medics has already made its mark at notable events such as The Legends Tournament in Midrand, South Africa, and the recent Maphumani Tournament and Music Gala held in Gwanda.
Mtee highlighted that the company prioritises hiring personnel with first aid and physiotherapy qualifications, with staffing levels based on the size of the event or population served.
“Our mission is to provide quality health services to artists and sportspeople when they need it most. We want to be there at the moment of injury or emergency, not after,” he said.
Mtee added that the company also aims to complement government efforts in expanding access to emergency health services, particularly within the arts and sports sectors.
“We want to partner with arts festivals across the country to ensure artistes have timely access to medical attention. Our long-term vision includes providing ambulance services at performance venues and festival sites,” he said. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
