adminLungelo Ndhlovu Saturday Leisure Correspondent
BULAWAYO artistes said a television station in this part of the country will impact positively on their work and also help groom local talent.
The city boasts of a glut of young talent, which includes Kwabatsha, Khuxman, Djembe Monks, Pronix and Harmonic Rhythms, Family Voices, Anti-Virus, Kasi Princes (TKP), P.O.Y, Ndux Junior, Dance Group, and Ziyawa Performing Arts.
They commended the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (Baz) for inviting applications for metro radio stations and television licences across the country. They said in addition to the radio station to be based in the city, a television channel in Bulawayo would broaden the range of platforms on which locals can shine.
Djembe Monks member, Emmanuel Nkomo said:
“A Bulawayo based TV station run by personnel from the community will mean programming is being done by people who understand the community it is representing,” Nkomo said.
“A station here will also mean more coverage of the people who are in the arts industry here in Bulawayo. Artistes will even afford to communicate to the station for interviews or platforms to showcase their talent. Right now going to ZBC Tv in Harare will mean $60 maximum for transport plus accommodation and this discourages artistes at times to push their brands,” Nkomo.
Up-and-coming group, Pronix and Harmonic Rhythms leaders, Prosper Ndebele and Lungile Ndlovu said that a locally based TV or radio station will ensure that artistes break into various markets.
Hip hop artiste P.O.Y echoed the same sentiments, saying that investors who have passion in the broadcasting sector should assist to boost local content.
“Companies in Bulawayo will also grow through that television station because the broadcaster will ensure they reach the targeted markets through advertising by the locals. Through this television station and radio, we can tell our own stories and stop watching South African soapies,” he said.
Amakhosi director Cont Mhlanga said that electronic media is key in the development of economic and political growth.
“Community television and radio station is fundamental in the growth of our locally based artistes. It creates an industry so that artistes become pay masters. Television has power of influence and also to connect the market. It is high time this region invests in a television station so as to uplift its contacts,” said Mhlanga.
Online Reporter