Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
Imbube outfit Indosakusa The Morning Star, aims to revive Zimbabwe’s oldest musical tradition at this year’s Independence Gala. The group is among those billed to perform at the gala being held at Minda High School in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, on April 18.
This forms part of Independence Day celebrations themed “Zim@46: Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030.”
Indosakusa’s forthcoming appearance at the gala comes at a time when imbube groups from the region have been largely absent from major national stages for over a decade. Their performance is expected to test the enduring appeal of the genre within the rapidly evolving Creative Cultural Industries.
Founder Oscar Siziba said the group was honoured by the invitation, marking their return to the national gala stage after 16 years.
“We performed at national galas from around 2006 to 2010, and to be called back after about 16 years is both an honour and a challenge to prove that imbube is still popular and here to stay,” said Siziba.
“To perform at such a national event speaks to the quality of our music, our identity as a group and our alignment with national values. It means a lot to us.”
Siziba said preparations were already underway to ensure a memorable performance.
“Our fans should expect fireworks at this year’s Independence event. We’ve prepared a strong production, and we’ll not disappoint,” he said.
He added that the gala would also provide a platform to sample their upcoming project, Impi Yengoma, set for August in Bulawayo.
“The gala allows us to test the project with a wider audience and refine it ahead of its official showcase,” he said.
The group will join another Imbube/isicathamiya group —Ufasimba The Home of Art, Ndolwane Super Sounds, Mavusani and the Chimurenga Vocalists and Macrey Super Sounds, at the gala with more artistes still to be announced. — @mthabisi_mthire
