Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment
WHEN the sun rises over Bulawayo on 5 June, the stage will be set not just for another concert, but for a statement of resilience, identity and inclusion.
Among the powerful voices to take to the stage during this year’s Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF) is the Albinism Konnect Music Band, an all-female ensemble of extraordinary young women who are not only performers, but torchbearers of change.
Last year, the Government pledged to protect the rights of people with albinism. Justice Ministry Secretary Vimbai Nyemba reaffirmed that Zimbabwe’s Constitution aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, guaranteeing dignity, protection and opportunity.
Now, that pledge finds rhythm and harmony in the cultural capital of the country. Through the City of Bulawayo’s flagship arts showcase, BAF, inclusivity will take centre stage at this year’s Imbokodo concert, a women-centred showcase of talent, set for Thursday at the Large City Hall.
The line-up is an impressive reflection of Bulawayo’s creative diversity: Luchi Shiki, Novuyo Seagirl, Matojeni Melo-Maniacs, WeCreate, Lemoniq and the ever-charismatic TKP as host. But it is the inclusion of the Albinism Konnect Band that strikes a resonant chord.
Founded by a group of young women with albinism, the Albinism Konnect Band started humbly, as a choir, driven by a dream to be seen and heard. Over time, they evolved musically and socially, adding instruments, amplifying their voices and challenging public perception. Today, they are a symbol of empowerment.
At the helm is the compelling Marvellous Tshuma, better known as the Queen of BaTonga, a 2020 Voice2Rep Zimbabwe finalist whose commanding vocals and cultural pride have made her a magnetic figure in Zimbabwe’s music circles.
“Speaking personally and on behalf of our group, I’m absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured that the Albinism Konnect Music Band will be performing at the Imbokodo Concert during the BAF celebrations on 5 June.
“This invitation is not just a milestone for us as musicians, but a powerful moment for advancing the conversation around inclusion, visibility and empowerment for people with albinism,” Tshuma said.
Indeed, for many people with albinism, the stage of life is marred by shadows. Myths and misconceptions have long perpetuated discrimination, often manifesting in bullying, exclusion, and in some cases, violence. The social consequences are far-reaching, affecting mental health, educational access, employment opportunities and basic self-worth.
Tshuma is candid about these struggles, and determined to shift the narrative.
“The Imbokodo concert stands as a powerful platform for celebrating resilience, womanhood, and cultural expression. To be part of such a meaningful event aligns perfectly with the values we uphold through our music.
“As the Queen of the BaTonga people, it fills me with immense pride to see our cultural identity represented on such a grand stage.
“This is more than a concert, it’s a celebration of diversity and an opportunity to share the rich heritage of the BaTonga community through music, dance and storytelling.”
In 2023, Albinism Konnect Band released their debut album One People for More, a powerful body of work that speaks to unity, belonging and breaking boundaries. With traditional rhythms, contemporary arrangements and messages of hope stitched into every song, the band offers more than music. They offer movement.
“Being part of BAF amplifies that mission. It’s not just about the performance, it’s about visibility, voice, and validation. This concert is a declaration that people with albinism are not to be hidden or pitied, but celebrated, uplifted and embraced as leaders, creators and changemakers,” Tshuma added.
BAF itself is woven into the city’s cultural and historic fabric. It coincides with Bulawayo Day, celebrated annually on 1 June to commemorate the 1894 declaration of Bulawayo as a town by Dr Leander Starr Jameson. Later granted city status in 1943, Bulawayo remains a proud epicentre of cultural expression.
To honour the milestone, the city will host a vibrant parade and pop-up exhibitions at the City Hall tomorrow. The main BAF programme, running from June 2 to 5, is packed with offerings: Comedy and Poetry Nights, a Family Fun Fair, the Kasi to Kasi Talent Search finals, and a rousing Gospel and Imbube concert among others.
And for those still hungry for more, BAF Extra (June 6–7) will keep the vibe alive with extended programming, showcasing the city’s ongoing creative heartbeat.
As the excitement builds for 5 June, the Queen of BaTonga is resolute.
“We look forward to standing tall on that stage, not just as performers, but as proud ambassadors of change and cultural pride,” she said.
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Bongani Ndlovu