Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
DENDERA music star Sulu Chimbetu says the military training he received made him fall in love with his country.
Sulu served in the Airforce of Zimbabwe from 2003 to 2006 before becoming a full-time musician.
He has been the brand ambassador of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services since 2018.
“I love my country and nothing will take that away,” the Orchestra Dendera Kings frontman said in an interview.
“Each time I perform at a State function, I feel blessed. It pushes me to give my best to the people.
“By the way, I am a trained soldier and that alone must tell you something.”
He is set to perform at the Uhuru Gala at Maphisa Growth Point.
And, if Sulu is to be believed, Zimbabweans are in for a night to remember.
He has boldly declared that he was “born to serve the nation.”
The statement that has set the tone for what promises to be a blockbuster 46th Uhuru celebrations gala on April 18 in Matobo District, Matabeleland South.
And make no mistake, Suluman is not just talking — he is coming in hard!
With the Uhuru celebrations running under the theme Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030, expectations are sky-high.
“I don’t want to just add numbers,” he said. “I want to entertain fans in Maphisa.”
The gala has attracted a star-studded line-up, with big guns from Matabeleland ready to defend their home turf.
Crowd favourites like Jeys Marabini, Iyasa and Black Umfolosi are expected to bring the heat, while seasoned performers including Sandra Ndebele, Andy Muridzo, Dereck Mpofu and Chase Skuza are also in the mix.
But it’s Jeys Marabini who has thrown down the gauntlet!
“This is happening right at my doorstep,” he said. “We promise fireworks! Fans must come in their numbers — we are ready!”
The stakes are high, and the bragging rights even higher.
As excitement reaches boiling point, Maphisa is already buzzing with activity.
Residents are preparing for an invasion of music lovers, with vendors and small businesses cashing in on the anticipated influx.
From food stalls to pop-up markets, everyone wants a slice of the Uhuru cake — and for many, this is more than just a celebration; it’s a rare economic lifeline.
Traders are stocking up to meet demand.
It’s a win-win situation as entertainment meets business.
Meanwhile, the Government is not taking chances.
Massive infrastructure upgrades are underway, with roads being rehabilitated to ensure smooth access to the venue.
The message is clear — this year’s Uhuru bash must be bigger and better! Last year’s event in Gokwe set the bar high, featuring heavyweights like Jah Signal, Sandra Ndebele, Peter Moyo and Suluman himself.
But insiders say this year’s edition could blow it out of the water.
Beyond the music, the Uhuru gala carries deep meaning — a moment to honour the country’s heroes and heroines who fought for independence.
And the artists know it.
“This is our chance to honour our heroes through music,” Marabini said.
“Independence did not come on a silver platter.”
As the countdown continues, one thing is certain — Maphisa is about to become the heartbeat of Zimbabwe.
And, if Suluman delivers on his bold promise, this could easily go down as one of the most unforgettable Uhuru celebrations in recent years.
Mathew Masinge