Online Reporter
Johnsias Mutonhori
More than 20 artistes converged at Jeke Growth Point in Shurugwi last Saturday for a festival aimed at tackling the rising challenge of drug and substance abuse among youths in communal and mining areas.
The event was not only a festival but also the launch of an Afro-dancehall riddim produced by Gweru-based producer Ternforn Mmatsiwo, popularly known as Mox. This marked the third edition of the annual music festival, which continues to blend entertainment with social consciousness.
Organiser and sponsor of the event, local businessman, Tawanda Muchechetere, explained the focus behind this year’s theme.
“While we’ve held these festivals before, this year we wanted to anchor it on a critical community issue, drug and substance abuse, rather than just music. It’s no secret that our youths, both urban and rural, are increasingly engaging in drugs.
“We saw it as strategic to harness artistes, both established and upcoming, to deliver a message of shunning substance abuse, which has become a national concern,” he said.
Beyond raising awareness, the festival also aimed to empower young talent from the communal areas, who often lack access to studios and mentorship.
“We created an opportunity for these youths to ride on a riddim produced by Mox. They’ve shown there is dormant talent waiting to be awoken,” Muchechetere added.
The festival featured a mix of seasoned performers and rising stars. Contemporary artist Micky Royal captivated the crowd with an energetic set, while Gweru-based dancehall chanter Mackman brought the house down with his seasoned performance.
Producer Mox was equally impressed by the level of talent he encountered.
“I was blown away by the raw talent among youths in these communal areas. Initially, I thought it would be a challenge, but the whole process was an amazing experience.
“If more people support grassroots music initiatives like Mr Muchechetere, Zimbabwean music can reach even greater heights,” he said.
