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Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
ZIMDANCEHALL artiste Ma9Nine has urged young people to remain grateful for the country’s independence, stressing the Importance of honouring the gallant sons and daughters who dedicated — and, in many cases, lost — their lives during the liberation struggle.
Ma9Nine shared these sentiments ahead of the main Independence celebrations set for Maphisa in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, on Saturday.
“This country came at a price. Young people like us left their comfortable homes, abandoned their dreams, and joined the liberation struggle, so that we can enjoy this freedom today. Some never made it back, as we lost them during the war.
“These are people we must be grateful to for their sacrifices, as they gave their lives on the front line for us to gain independence. As the youth of today, it is our responsibility to honour their vision and work hard to develop our nation. This can only be achieved if we work in harmony and realise the dream,” said Ma9Nine.
For the artiste, the Independence Gala represents more than just a performance platform; it is an opportunity to fuse celebration with remembrance and reflection.
A member of the Musicians for ED movement, Ma9Nine revealed he is preparing a memorable act that blends ZimDancehall with Tshibilika sounds — a genre that resonates deeply with audiences in Matabeleland.
“People know me because of ZimDancehall. But this year, together with my brother Sipho Mercent Nyathi, we combined forces and released two Tshibilika songs. We’re working on a full length album, and I’m looking forward to sampling some of those songs at the gala.
“Besides, as someone who comes from Tsholotsho and will be performing in my home province, I really know what our people expect on stage, and I’m ready to deliver exactly that. This will be a gala to remember,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when the nation is not only celebrating freedom, but also reflecting on the responsibility to build upon the foundation laid by liberation heroes. This year’s commemorations are being held under the theme “Zim@46 – Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030”, emphasising the importance of collective effort in driving national progress. The theme is already being reflected through key infrastructural projects such as the Bulawayo–Maphisa road rehabilitation and the construction of a stadium set to host the main celebrations.
Ma9Nine, who made history as the first artiste to perform ZimDancehall music in the Ndebele language, will be among the performers at the Independence Gala scheduled for Minda High School grounds following the main event.
The musical showcase is expected to run through the night, celebrating both freedom and cultural identity.
The Independence Gala will feature a diverse line up of artistes, including Jeys Marabini, Clement Magwaza, Mavusani and The Chimurenga Vocalists, Black Diva, Dereck Mpofu, Andy Muridzo, LMG Choir, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Zinjaziyamluma, Black Umfolosi, Ndolwane Super Sounds and Chief Hwenje.
Also set to perform are Khonangale, Indosakusa The Morning Star, Iyasa, Bhadilah, Chase Skuza, Jah Master, Sasha, Bolamba Culture Birds, Sulumani Chimbetu, Ufasimba Home of Arts, DT Bio Mudimba and Dubia Masters. The event will be hosted by Thulani Munyandi, Leonard Ncube, Nqobile Malinga and Phil Moyo.
Online Reporter