Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
Zimbabwe has a new son-in-law!
King Smade, the celebrated Afrobeats impresario and founder of Afro Nation, is soaking up every ounce of Zimbabwean hospitality, food, fashion and music as he continues his whirlwind visit in Harare.
The Nigerian-born British based music mogul real name Dr Adesegun Adeosun Jnr., whose global brand has united African sounds across the world, arrived in the country last week for a tour which is also part of his cultural and creative exchange programme that has seen him engaging with local artists, visiting key cultural landmarks, and attending top music events.
On Friday, Smade — who has worked with African music royalty from Burna Boy to Davido — toured the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, where he was visibly moved by the nation’s artistic heritage. Posting on his socials, he gushed:
“Zimbabwe Your mukwasha is HERE! Today we visited the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and I learnt so much about Zimbabwe’s art, culture and history,” he posted on social media with excitement. “Our guide taught us about Mbuya Nehanda and the revolution that took for Zimbabwe to be free.”
He went on to share heartfelt words about the local creative community, reflecting a deep respect for the nation’s artistic spirit.
“I then met the FUTURE of Zimbabwe. Since I have been here I keep saying that Zimbabwean unity is the only missing ingredient to the success of us. I am so proud to be here, success is yours. Meeting you guys today made me realise that Zimbabwe has tooooo much talent. Zimbabwe has a self-belief issue. I am proud of all the creatives we met — you guys are the future, don’t stop. You guys have everything you need. Zimbabwe to the World.” Later that evening, the ever-charming Smade paid a visit to Afro-fusion queen Feli Nandi’s fashion and music stable, where he was treated to a warm dinner and a showcase of her designs. Clearly blown away, he couldn’t help but sing her praises:
“Queen @feli_nandi you spoilt us last night! What a beautiful and warm welcome to Zimbabwe. The hospitality you have shown us has been beyond amazing. Remember I told you I will never forget you, you fed us and you clothed us. Thank you.”
Feli Nandi, known for her elegant Afrocentric designs and soulful voice, reportedly prepared a traditional Zimbabwean meal for her guest, before gifting him a custom outfit, a gesture that sealed the “mukwasha” title in true cultural fashion.
King Smade’s cultural immersion continued at the Zimpraise concert at Glamis Arena, which doubled as an electrifying Apostolic gathering that blended worship, talent and unity in true Zimbabwean style. The night saw thousands of fans filling the venue to capacity, waving flags and singing along to timeless gospel anthems.
The Zimpraise Choir, in full voice and spirit, delivered a powerful set that moved even the visiting mogul.
Performances by Joyful Praise, The Unveiled, Love City Praise, Spirit Praise, ZCC, Vocal Base, Vabvuwi UMC and Romac choir among others brought the crowd to its feet, while traditional dances and choral harmonies created a spiritual atmosphere unlike any other.
Smade, who was seen clapping and recording parts of the show on his phone, later described the event as “spiritually uplifting and musically outstanding.” He is said to have been impressed by the professionalism, unity, and energy of the performers, calling the experience “a divine celebration of African talent and faith.”
Mathew Masinge