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Kimberly Mhembere
A MUSICAL gala aimed at remembering the significant role played by Zimbabwe’s heroes and heroines during the war of liberation is set to be held on Tuesday.
Several artistes have already confirmed participation in the concert, which will also be beamed live on ZTN Prime and ZBC TV.
Thousands of lives were lost as gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe fought to liberate the country from white minority rule. Music was a crucial element during the war of liberation and after independence.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the August 15 gala was part of the Heroes’ Day celebrations.
“It is that time of the year once again when we commemorate the Heroes’ and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces days. This year, we celebrate our revered Heroes’ Day on August 14, 2023 at the National Heroes Acre and Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day on August 15, 2023 at the National Sports Stadium,” she said.
The heroes concert will be held at Vengere Stadium in Rusape, where a powerful line-up of artistes is expected to entertain fans as they dish out their hit songs.
Among the performers will be Nicholas Zacharia, Mai Patai, Enzo Ishall, Mark Ngwazi, Esau and Tatenda Macheso, Simon Mutambi, Andy Muridzo, Sandra Ndebele, Dorcas Moyo, Suluman Chimbetu, Leonard Zhakata, Shantel Sithole, DJ Fantan, DT Bio Mudimba and Chief Hwenje.
Some of the artistes who spoke to The Sunday Mail Society said they were ready for the event and valued its significance.
“There were a lot of sacrifices that were made by our forefathers, mothers, sisters and brothers for us to enjoy Zimbabwe today. It is an honour to be part of this line-up,” said “Taurai Madzoka” hitmaker Mark Ngwazi.
“Several people lost their lives during the liberation struggle, hence we must honour them. My playlist will include ‘Taurai Madzoka’, ‘Nyaradzo Yababa’, ‘Hwahwa’ and ‘Pasi PemaVeggie Pane Nyama”.
Zimdancehall chanter Enzo Ishall, a frequent performer at such national events, said the heroes give them an opportunity to explore and express creativity inspired by real-life fighters and their narratives.
“It is a day to commemorate the freedom that was brought about by the fallen and living heroes, which marked the dawn of a new era in our country’s political history. I take part in such events as a way to say thank you and as a way of validation of my talent and hard work,” he said.
The mega platform equally presents an opportunity for artistes to collaborate and exchange notes.
“This year, we are going down memory lane with songs like ‘Matsimba’ and ‘Nguva Inorwadza’ as we celebrate our heroes,” added Enzo Ishall.
Outstanding female musician Dorcas Moyo weighed in.
“As an artiste, l do not take such acts of heroism for granted. The freedom we enjoy today is because of other people’s sacrifices.
Without freedom, I do not think, as artistes, we would be getting such platforms to showcase our talents. It is a great honour to sing, celebrating our heroes, and featuring on this star-studded line-up,” said Dorcas Moyo.
Some of Moyo’s hit songs are “Mhanza Haisekwe”, “Moyo Mutsva”, “Haakotsire” and “Ndipeiwo Mukana”.
The late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi became the first local musician to be declared a national hero.
Dickson “Chinx” Chingaira, Soul Jah Love and Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu were among other singers who were accorded liberation hero status.
Online Reporter