Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
SOME of the thousands of Zimbabweans who have returned home from South Africa can borrow a leaf from Rasta Kwasa musician Dino Mudondo.
There was a time when Dino spent years in South Africa before relocating back home.
Now, he has embraced farming as a reliable source of income, proving that life beyond the stage can be just as rewarding.
The musician, who has been in the music industry for more than two decades, has diversified into poultry and horticulture at his farm in Beatrice, saying it is important for creatives to establish sustainable side businesses.
Mudondo believes farming has become an essential part of his life and a practical way of supplementing his earnings from music.
The musician, who turns 48 on August 7, said the time has come for artists to think beyond entertainment and invest in income-generating projects.
“I am into poultry and horticulture at my farm in Beatrice.
“I realised that I should keep myself busy, and farming has become another important source of income for me.”
Although he lives in Harare, Mudondo said he remains actively involved in the day-to-day operations of his farm.
“Of course, I stay in Harare, but I am always in touch with my farm workers in Beatrice.
“I also lead from the front by working alongside them whenever I visit,” he said.
On the musical front, Mudondo revealed that he is putting the finishing touches to his 18th album. I had hoped to release my 18th album on my birthday, but I have postponed it to October because of logistical changes.
“I have always enjoyed giving my fans new music, and I will continue doing so to remain relevant
“I can’t afford to disappoint them because I am where I am today because of their massive support,” he said.
Known for pioneering the Rasta Kwasa genre—a unique fusion of reggae and kwasa kwasa—Mudondo began his musical journey while he was in Form Two in Harare.
Like many aspiring musicians of his generation, he first showcased his talent in the school choir. According to his biography, Mudondo made his breakthrough in 2001 with the release of the hit song Makorokoto.
Over the years, he has built an impressive catalogue that includes popular tracks such as Chirangano, Makoikoi, Ndichakumirira, Zengeza and Jatropha.
Backed by the Rasta Kwasa Family, Mudondo also spent time in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he studied sound engineering.
During his stay there, he ventured into mining and furthered his studies in marketing in Cape Town.
After returning home because he missed Zimbabwe, the musician resumed live performances around Harare with a new band while simultaneously expanding his farming enterprise.
