Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
Comedian Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima, currently navigating marital challenges with Precious “Mai Ngaa” Kabrito, has every reason to smile next month.
His much-anticipated film, titled “Tambu: The Daughter of the Soil,” is set to premiere on Valentine’s Day at Ster-Kinekor Joina City in Harare.
As the film’s protagonist, Kapfupi’s dream of creating his own movie has finally come true, thanks to the talented Ireland-based filmmaker, director and actress, Caroline Nyaka-Chana.
This premiere marks not just a remarkable milestone for Kapfupi, but also a celebration of the resilience and creativity within the Zimbabwean entertainment industry. In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Nyaka-Chana expressed her anticipation for a successful premiere.
“We are ready for the premiere of ‘Tambu: The Daughter of the Soil’ on February 14 after making all the necessary arrangements. We are pleased with the feedback we received from the creative community after we recently held a private premiere at Reps Theatre. We took the feedback from those who watched it and made some adjustments to ensure that it lives up to expectations,” she shared.
“With its compelling storyline and relatable characters, we hope the movie will be embraced by many since it features well-known characters. It has always been my wish to provide Kapfupi with the right platform to shine, and that wish has come to fruition.”
Nyaka-Chana noted that Kapfupi needed moral support during a time when he faced public ridicule after the collapse of his marriage. “While it may have seemed that his world was crumbling amid his marital woes, we need to give him a shoulder to lean on and help him move forward. He still remains one of us, and we can’t afford to let him down in this darkest hour,” she stated. Nyaka-Chana, who previously managed Kapfupi during his peak before relocating overseas, features him in the lead role.
The film’s talented cast also includes Cody “Rank Marshall” Tinker, Sabhuku Aphiri and Darlington “Dhadza D” Zhanje, with Nyaka-Chana herself portraying Tambu.
Produced with remarkable quality, the movie’s private premiere on Valentine’s Day will bring together the entire cast, shining the spotlight on Kapfupi as the main attraction. Kapfupi will be celebrated for his consistency, which has solidified his status as a household name.
Nyaka-Chana emphasised their determination to make an impression in the creative community.
“I have always wanted to work with Kapfupi, having managed him long before I went to Europe,” she stressed. “Kapfupi was one of the pioneers of street theatre, along with the late Marabha (Charles Mapalume). It was easy working with him on this movie.” “As I mentioned in previous interviews, I once managed him before I moved overseas, but I always stayed in touch.”
“I would have loved to include Marabha, but unfortunately, he is no longer with us. We had to improvise and bring in new and familiar faces for this movie. We have covered much ground, and the big stage has been set.”
The movie “Tambu: Daughter of the Soil,” which features the song “Mengdhadhe” as a sound track, was expertly crafted in every aspect — lighting, sound, picture quality, direction, and stunning costumes — capturing the storyline of this movie set to grace the big screen soon.
Fans were excited about Kapfupi’s triumphant return, which rekindled memories of the revered actor, who rose to acclaim at the turn of the century.
Nyaka-Chana has been involved in the production of international movies and series in Hollywood, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
She returned to Zimbabwe a few months ago, where she tracked down Kapfupi and collaborated on a new movie. Nyaka-Chana revealed that she was impressed by Kapfupi’s professional conduct.
Kapfupi’s manager, Sam Manjalima, praised those who continue to recognise the value of his brother’s work.
“It’s a great feeling to know that there are still people who love and cherish my brother for his good deeds. He is exceptionally talented and has faced numerous challenges.
