Online Reporter
Showbiz Reporter
Rising star “Oriyano,” whose voice has drawn comparisons to Jah Prayzah, proved he is a force to be reckoned with at the National Arts Merit Awards (Namas) in Harare on Saturday.
His electrifying performance left fans in awe, cementing his status as an artiste deserving of a place on Zimbabwe’s biggest stages.
Oriyano’s performances of Makarima Mupoto and Marema were met with enthusiastic cheer, as he showcased his vocal prowess, stage presence and undeniable charisma.
Speaking after the awards, Oriyano, who has been trending online since the event, expressed gratitude for the platform and the overwhelming support he received.
“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and recognition at Nama 2025. To the incredible Nama team, your acknowledgment of artistes fuels our passion and growth. We are honoured to have performed on such a prestigious stage alongside Zimbabwe’s finest,” he said.
Oriyano also extended appreciation to the dancers and artistic director, for their contribution to his standout performance.
But, who is Oriyano? Born Kudakwashe Royne Kachehiko, Oriyano is a multi-talented young artiste in his early 20s who has taken Zimbabwe’s music scene by storm. His skills extend beyond singing as he is also a music producer, fashion designer, poet, pencil artist and beatboxer.
With six years of experience, Oriyano has finally found his breakthrough moment, drawing comparisons to Jah Prayzah. He however said despite feeling flattered, he remains humble and focused.
“Jah Prayzah is an icon, and I respect him. I’m willing to learn from him and other greats like Soul Jah Love and Andy Muridzo. Fans are entitled to their opinions, but I’m simply carving my own path,” he told our sister publication The Herald recently.
Blessed with a captivating voice and a talent for crafting engaging, spiritually uplifting love songs, Oriyano is proving to be one of Zimbabwe’s brightest musical gems.
With the support of renowned radio personality Phathisani Sibanda, who now leads his management team, Oriyano is poised to dominate the 2025 showbiz calendar. Promoters have taken notice but the young musician remains focused, assembling a 12-member live band to enhance his performances.
“With a live band, serious rehearsals are key. We have several international shows lined up this year, and fans can expect more music. I find relief in music after everything I’ve been through, including the loss of loved ones,” he shared.
Trending with hits like Makarima Mupoto, Super Glue and Areka featuring Nyasha David, Oriyano’s talent is impossible to ignore.
“I just write and record the music — the rest is up to the fans. With the help of my management, I know greater things are coming,” he said.
Despite his growing success, Oriyano remains deeply grounded in his faith, balancing his music career with worship at his apostolic shrine.
Phathisani Sibanda, reflecting on Oriyano’s journey, told The Herald, the young artiste has overcome significant challenges to reach this point.
“If you understand his background, you won’t troll him on social media. He has defied the odds. Some haters may call him names, but he didn’t choose to have this voice — it’s a gift from God that touches hearts worldwide,” Sibanda said.
He encouraged Oriyano to remain professional and dedicated to his craft.
“My prayer is for him to stay focused and loyal to his journey. Talent will always stand out, and he has shown that he is willing to learn from top musicians. We want to see him grow and succeed,” he added.
With his talent, humility and strong work ethic, Oriyano is undoubtedly a star on the rise — one who is destined for even greater heights.
