Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Plumtree-based Afro Jazz musician BS Brown has revealed that music remains one of the most powerful tools to inspire social change, after fully representing Zimbabwe at a United Nations (UN) Women event in Nairobi, Kenya, where he used his art to campaign against gender-based violence (GBV).
BS Brown, who also works for a non-governmental organisation which is based in Plumtree, was invited as the guest musician at the Generation Equality Culmination Event hosted by UN Women, on July 1.
He shared the stage with local Kenyan artistes as organisers used both local and international voices to amplify the campaign against GBV.
The gathering formed part of the global Generation Equality Forum, which brings together governments, activists, youth organisations, corporations and development partners to strengthen efforts towards gender equality.
BS Brown performed his song, HeForShe Movement, which challenges men to take an active role in protecting women and girls from violence.
Beyond his music career, Brown attended the event in his capacity as the Global Generation Equality Action Coalition Leader on GBV against women and girls.
The muso said the invitation was a recognition of the strong link between his music and advocacy work.
He revealed that his performance resonated with the audience, which included government officials, activists, youth representatives and United Nations partners.
“I believe I was invited because my music speaks directly to the mission of the event. I wrote the HeForShe Movement song to encourage men and boys to become agents of change in ending gender-based violence. Music reaches people in a way that policy alone cannot, and Afro Jazz helps deliver that message in a relatable and cultural way.
“People were fully engaged. Some sang along, while many came to speak to me afterwards about what being a HeForShe ally means in everyday life. It showed me that music has the power to start important conversations,” said BS Brown.
His message extended beyond the UN event as he also performed at the Safari Park Hotel and Casino and Mövenpick Hotel and Residences Nairobi, reaching different audiences with the same call to end GBV.
Reflecting on the visit, BS Brown said the experience reinforced the importance of collective action in addressing violence against women and girls.
He also said the trip reaffirmed his belief that music is more than entertainment.
“The Generation Equality platform taught me that ending GBV takes all of us. Governments, activists, corporations and artistes, all have a role to play. It is not a women’s issue only, as it is everyone’s responsibility.
“In just four minutes on stage, music can spark conversations, touch emotions and inspire people to act. Afro Jazz gave the message, soul and reach. It reminded me that as artistes, we have a responsibility to use our platforms to drive positive transformation,” said BS Brown.
The Indoda Enjani hitmaker said the Nairobi experience was not only a career milestone but also proof that any musician can use his or her voice to influence conversations on global platforms while championing a cause that affects communities across the world.
