Chronicle Editor
Melissa Mpofu in Esigodini
ENERGETIC performances punctuated the night as local artistes took a stand against illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States and its European Union (EU) counterparts at the SADC Anti-Sanctions Musical Concert held on Friday at Habane Stadium in Esigodini.
The event, a first for the usually quiet town in Umzingwane District Matabeleland South Province, drew a large crowd and notable Government representatives, including Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, his deputy Dr Omphile Marupi and the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Nick Mangwana.
Zimbabwe has endured sanctions for over two decades, with profound effects on the economy and the lives of its citizens.
The concert, themed “Embracing Innovation Towards Vision 2030: The Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions”, aimed to unite people in advocating for the removal of the sanctions unconditionally.
The evening featured passionate and powerful performances by various artistes including Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele, Clement Magwaza, Madlela Skhobokhobo, Mzoe 7, Iyasa, Jah Signal, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Godolude, Chief Hwenje and Mark Ngwazi.
The theme of unity against sanctions echoed in each performance, with artistes underscoring the message: “Sanctions must go!”
Reflecting on the impact of sanctions, Macrey SuperSounds leader, Clement Magwaza voiced his detestation of the illegal economic embargo against Zimbabwe calling for their removal.
“It’s my wish to see sanctions lifted as they are stifling opportunities for Zimbabweans. We don’t want sanctions; they must go,” he said.
Marabini expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and stressed how sanctions affect musicians.
“Today (Friday), as Zimbabweans and the SADC community, we’re protesting illegal sanctions. Sanctions hurt us as artistes because if the economy suffers, people lose jobs and that affects our audience and our livelihood. We’re grateful to the Government for taking this step and involving us in the fight against these sanctions.”
Mbare Chimurenga Choir’s secretary, Tsitsi Chifeya, emphasised the hardships endured by families due to sanctions, saying, “Sanctions are harassing us, life is tough and our children are struggling. I’m glad, we as artistes, united on this and we are saying sanctions must go.”
Rhumba musician, Madlela Skhobokhobo thanked the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services for bringing the concert to Esigodini.
“I’m grateful to the organisers for holding this event here. People in Esigodini rarely get to experience concerts of this scale. I hope future events reach other towns like Filabusi and Gwanda,” he remarked.
The concert left the audience satisfied with co-ordinated performances and spirited crowd participation, reflecting the strong desire for the removal of sanctions.
The annual SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, commemorated on 25 October was instituted by SADC at its 39th Summit following a recommendation by the late President of Tanzania, John Magufuli.
Bongani Ndlovu