Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
CHENHAKA Trust, led by Taurai Moyo, has expanded its “I COMMIT” initiative to Makoni District, Rusape, in partnership with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) Manicaland.
The Rusape rollout follows the official launch of the programme at Chenhaka Trust offices in Mutare a fortnight ago, with the initiative set to be rolled out across the country.
Hambakwe Dance Group from Mutare became the inaugural beneficiary of a free five-hour foundational training session under the initiative.
The Makoni launch brought together key creative stakeholders, including Makoni Dance Group, Maungwe Dance Group, Chimutsotso, as well as pupils and teachers from Rujeko Primary School.
Moyo, the brainchild behind the initiative, said I COMMIT was designed as a sustainable, peer-supported education and training framework aimed at empowering artistes to take greater ownership of their careers.
“I COMMIT operates in direct alignment with Pillar No. 4 (Education, Training and Capacity Building) of Zimbabwe’s National Cultural and Creative Industries Strategy (2020–2030).
“The project drives a paradigm shift towards self-sustainability, encouraging artists to pledge ownership of their growth by self-funding basic operational logistics, such as local transport, meals and refreshments,” he said.
Moyo said the five-hour workshops cover key areas designed to improve both the professional standards and wellbeing of creatives.
“Through the five-hour workshop, we deliver targeted modules addressing both professional standards and artist wellness. These include Substance Abuse Prevention; Civic Engagement and Public Funding; Arts Management and Quality Production; and Decent Working Conditions and Professionalism,” he said.
He said the response to the initiative showed that artistes were willing to take greater control of their careers and livelihoods.
“By coupling self-reliant logistics with critical training in substance abuse prevention and civic funding engagement, Chenhaka Trust is equipping creatives to build sustainable, dignified careers,” said Moyo.
He said I COMMIT would be extended to more districts in Manicaland and other parts of Zimbabwe in the coming months.
Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
