Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Yesteryear musician Chase Skuza says he can’t wait to perform at the 46th Uhuru Gala, set for Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.
Running under the theme “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030,” the musical extravaganza will be held at Minda High School on April 18 to be exact.
Focusing on Matabeleland South and its creatives, Skuza is one of the major calling cards who will be promoting Kalanga at the event alongside other music greats including Socha Moyo, who fronts Black Umfolosi, Jeys Marabini and Sandra Ndebele. In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Skuza — who resides in Plumtree — said he was overwhelmed with joy as the countdown to the gala reaches fever pitch.
“I am ready for the gala, which means a lot for us, the people of Matabeleland South,” he said.
“It’s a big occasion to the late Vice President Joshua Nkomo, Solomon Skuza, and other departed greats who contributed a lot to the liberation of Zimbabwe.”
Skuza said he would be travelling to Bulawayo on Monday (today) to start rehearsals with his team, adding that they want to make an impression at Maphisa. The lanky performer, famed for the all-time classic “Banolila,” revealed the song is always on his playlist.
“The song ‘Banolila’ is always on my playlist wherever I perform because I was instrumental in promoting Kalanga as a language.
“It carries a lot of meaning to me, and I am happy that it has been embraced and performed at international level by other groups like Iyasa, which means a lot to us.” Skuza urged fans to turn up in large numbers and fill the venue.
“This is the perfect opportunity for the people of Matabeleland South to come in numbers and celebrate independence as a family.
“Independence means a lot for us — it’s for everybody and not a few selected people. We should all cherish this special holiday and celebrate it together as a family. In my case, I am already in the celebration mood, and I can assure you fireworks on the 18th of this month,” he boldly declared.
Besides Skuza, a star-studded lineup is set to perform at the 46th Uhuru celebrations in Maphisa.
Other top acts include Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Dereck Mpofu, Bio Mudhimba, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sanyanga, Gudoluhle and Friends, Dubia Masters, Bolamba Culture Birds, Zondamuthakathi Dance Group, Zinja Ziyamuluman Mxolisi, and many more.
Euphoria has since gripped Maphisa, where preparations are in full swing. Serious road rehabilitation is also taking place in the area, with the Government hosting state functions.
Last year, Nembudziya Government High School in Gokwe, Midlands, hosted the 45th Uhuru Musical Gala, featuring an impressive lineup that included Simon Mutambi, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Clement Magwaza, Argatha Murudzwa, Shantel Sithole, Jah Signal, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Sandra Ndebele, and Peter Moyo.
This time around, attention will again be on musical greats led by Skuza and Black Umfolosi, led by former freedom fighter Socha Moyo.
Black Umfolosi operated in the area under the ZIPRA forces before he crossed to Zambia, where he received further training.
Musically, he has also toured the area and commands a loyal following. Like Skuza, the show promises a mixed bag of veterans and new school talent in Maphisa—where events of this nature are rare. This year promises even more fun, with a star-studded lineup set to awaken Maphisa Growth Point from its deep slumber. The impact of such events reaches beyond the night itself, as Zimbabweans across the divide come together to celebrate Uhuru through song and dance.
Mathew Masinge