Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
FINANCE, Economic Planning and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, has urged young artistes to move beyond treating music as a pastime and begin viewing it as a serious, income-generating career.
Speaking at the Creative Bluez initiative — a platform dedicated to nurturing and showcasing Bulawayo’s emerging musical talent — held on Saturday night in Silungudzi A, Matobo, Prof Ncube applauded the city’s young artistes for their dedication and creativity. He said the time had come for Zimbabwean musicians to move beyond casual pursuit and start treating their art as a professional and economically viable career.
The event marked the culmination of a seven-day boot camp on song writing, recording and performance — a programme supported by the Mthuli Ncube Foundation through Kulture Studios.
Participants included Karen “Acquillah K” Dhliwayo (Afro-pop/R&B/Afro-soul), Catherine “Cathy” Taruvinga (Reggae/Dancehall/Afro beats), Nomazulu “Noma” Mguni (Afrohouse/Amapiano), Kingsley “Kingsley Summer” Siziba (Amapiano), Walter Mcebisi “D LaX” Dlamini (Dancehall/Afro-pop), Denzel Takudzwa “Amigoroyce” Pfute (Hip-hop/Afrobeats), Khotso “The Juggernaut” Dube (Dancehall), Thokozani “Tiger” Ncube (Dancehall/Hip-hop), Nkosinomusa “Lakosta” Tshuma (Kasi rap/Amapiano), Garikai “GaRy” Chakanyuka (Soul/R&B/Afro-pop) and Kabelo Bhekuyise “Kbrizzy” Matiwaza (Hip-hop).
The minister mingled with participants after the performances, congratulating them on their artistry and encouraging them to take full advantage of available opportunities.
“The talent in Bulawayo is undeniable, but it’s important for young artistes to start viewing their musical pursuits not as hobbies but as viable careers. We must work towards monetising music and making it a profitable endeavour that sustains livelihoods,” said Prof Ncube during a side interview.
His remarks resonated with the night’s performances, where participants showcased new songs from an upcoming compilation, including Ingwe Lenja, Ijazi, Mastanda and Jerejeje.
The artistes represented a wide range of genres — from Afro-pop and Hip-hop to Amapiano and Reggae — reflecting Bulawayo’s vibrant and evolving music scene.
Prof Ncube, a long-time supporter of the arts, has previously donated recording equipment to emerging musicians and played a key role in the establishment of Kulture Studios. His continued engagement with the city’s creative community underlines his belief that the arts are a crucial component of economic growth.
“It is our responsibility to promote and support these artistes for the betterment of our community,” he added.
