Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
JAH PRAYZAH may be enjoying phenomenal success, but his heart remains with the less privileged members of society.
The 38-year-old, who rose from humble beginnings in Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe to achieve both fame and fortune in the capital, is set to convert his Harare headquarters and studio in Belvedere into a charity home.
His offices and headquarters are located at No. 31 Herbert Chitepo Extension, Belvedere, Harare. The premises house Jah Prayzah’s office, boardroom, rehearsal room and recording studio.
After careful consideration and consultation with his management, the renowned artist has issued a public notice announcing his intention to establish the Mukudzeyi Mukombe Foundation, a dream supported by those close to him.
He has applied for the registration of his foundation under the Private Voluntary Organisations Act (Chapter 17:05) to ensure the centre’s smooth establishment.
“The Mukudzeyi Mukombe Foundation has submitted an application for registration at 31 Herbert Chitepo Extension, Belvedere, Harare, Zimbabwe, in accordance with section 9(2) of the Private Voluntary Organisations Act (Chapter 17:05).” The aims and objectives of the private voluntary organisation are to support and promote Zimbabwean children, focusing on the girl child, young adults, and elderly members of society from underprivileged backgrounds.
“This will be achieved by providing access to education, healthcare, social amenities, and personal development initiatives, with an emphasis on music, arts, and culture as vehicles for self-expression, confidence building, and life skills development,” reads part of the application.
Outlining its objectives, Jah Prayzah stated that the foundation aims to combat crime, drug and substance abuse, uplift children in disadvantaged communities, and protect the rights of the girl child.
Additionally, he stressed that the foundation seeks to promote the livelihoods and well-being of elderly and disadvantaged community members.
As is the norm, residents with objections to the proposed private voluntary organisation have been advised to submit them within 21 days.
Jah Prayzah’s manager, Keen Mushapaidze, confirmed that they were establishing a foundation to change many people’s lives.
“We have been doing this charity work for some time, and it’s only now that we are setting up a foundation at our offices. It will be a separate entity altogether and will continue operating at the same location because it is spacious.
“It has always been Jah Prayzah’s wish to set up his foundation,” Mushapaidze confirmed. “I feel proud to be part of Jah Prayzah’s journey. We have come a long way together, and I have seen him evolve. It’s quite encouraging to note that he has other people at heart, especially the less privileged ones.”
Mushapaidze said they were open to partnerships and sponsors to make the foundation viable. “We are open to those willing to join us in this initiative because it is meant to help Zimbabweans. This is what we have been longing for over the years.”
Jah Prayzah’s move is a game-changer for the influencer, whose success continues to make waves. As a role model, Jah Prayzah, who has achieved everything on home turf regarding music awards and following, will always be remembered as a national treasure. Largely inspired by the late national hero and music icon, superstar Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, Jah Prayzah’s initiative will not only enhance his profile, but also change lives.
Modern-day influencers are those who change people’s lives for the better. This has been the case with Jah Prayzah, whose compositions, global impact, and charity work have come under the spotlight. Over the years, he has quietly made donations to several charities across Zimbabwe, and it is only now that he has decided to set up his own foundation, the Mukudzeyi Mukombe Foundation.
He joins the long list of top musicians championing charity, including Alick Macheso, Winky D, Killer T, Freeman, and Pastor Charles Charamba, among others.
