Online Reporter
Youth Interactive Writer
Child abuse is a pressing issue that requires collective efforts to address.
Organisations, individuals, and child rights advocates have been vocal about the need to combat this scourge.
It is only fitting that children are included in initiatives aimed at tackling child abuse, as their involvement can significantly enhance the effectiveness of these campaigns.
When children participate, they have the opportunity to speak for themselves, making their voices heard.
This became a reality when seven kids, aged between eight and 14, teamed up to compose a song titled “Breaking the Silence/Tinoda Mutinzwe/Sifuna Lisizwe,” which is now being played on various local radio stations.
The talented group includes Prince Tapembera (14), Esin Zulu (12), twins Devine Grace and Devine Favour Meck, Jayna Chinatira (nine), Fayna Gahadzikwa (eight), Pearl Muradzikwa (nine), and Shekaina Tapembera (eight), who provided backing vocals.
The song was produced by Blessing Masanga and written by Hetisani Mharidzo of the Zimbabwe Female Gospel Artists Association (ZFGGA) specifically for these young artists.
The kids have been receiving training under ZFGGA, which has continued to empower young talent.
It is hard to believe it was sung by such young kids, as they surpassed expectations with their vocal projection and ability.
Now that the audio version has been released, attention has shifted to the visual aspect.
To a stranger, one might be mistaken not to think the piece was sung, coordinated, and conceived by these young artists as young as eight.
For Masanga, this project was the best way to give back to kids whose talents need exposure.
What has raised the appeal of this album is that it tackles a serious issue that has been raging for ages.
Having kids address the issue on their own is the best way to celebrate their talents while honouring their mentors.
One of the participants, Esin, was full of praise for her team.
“We had fun in making of this project, which is now out there for the masses to listen to. I wish this group could be kept intact for years because we discuss great talents here.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and learning from our mentors – Pastor Mharidzo and producer Masanga – who were patient with us,” she said.
It has been established that most of the kids who participated in this project are also involved in music at school, especially Prince.
He is not new to the studio booth, having recorded some of his tracks before teaming up with his fellow kids.
As for the Meck twins – Devine Grace and Devine Favour – recording music runs in their DNA since they learn from their parents.
Pearl and Fayna are equally talented and only received exposure after training at ZFGGA under Pastor Mharidzo’s great tutelage.
To put it lightly, this music is a “must-have” for those who are serious about children’s rights. Children suffering from abuse can also find healing after listening to the song.
Those who are bullying others will also learn the dangers of their behaviour.
