adminTonga Express is a musical band which was formed last year by a group of youths from Tinde area in Binga, in Matabeleland North with the aim of promoting Tonga language and culture.
In an interview with Chronicle on the sidelines of the installation of Chief Pashu on Saturday, the group leader, Obert Mudenda said Binga had a lot of untapped artistic talent.
“Binga is endowed with a lot of artistic talent but it is lagging behind because of lack of exposure and finance. We have formed this group as part of efforts to promote our culture and language,” said Mudenda, a former Mokis Connection guitarist.
The group was formed sometime last year and at the moment has eight members.
“We fuse Tonga, Nambia and Ndebele languages in our songs, which are mainly gospel,” said Mudenda.
The news crew had the opportunity to watch and listen as the eight-member group took to the stage.
Different groups from local schools and the community took turns to entertain guests.
Mudenda said his group was ready to record but lacked finance.
“So far we have 20 songs but we are yet to record. We wish to record but we do not have money. We also need funding to buy instruments. If we can get assistance we can make a living out of our talent,” he said.
Mudenda said the group played at schools in the district and also provided entertainment at major events in the district.
“Last year in December we went to Zambia and the reception was very good,” he said.
A member of the group, Amos Munga said the late Tongai Moyo and Leonard Dembo inspired them.
“The messages of these two great musicians affects everyone. Although they are no longer with us their legacy lives on,” said Munga.
He said the group was contemplating introducing female members.
Online Reporter