Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
NEWLY-crowned Harare Cup Clash winner, visually impaired Mogo Vybes, firmly believes that resilience is finally paying off, as the chanter is on the verge of becoming a household name.
He has defied the odds and demonstrated that being blind does not mean he is not capable of anything.
Mogo won a residential stand last weekend at City Sports Centre during a tight contest that left lasting memories.
Born Fortune Mandishona 24 years ago, the father of two was on cloud nine.
“I am happy after winning the stand and can’t wait to move into my house, thanks to Pastor Kudakwashe Jose and his church. For a church to come on board and support music is great motivation for us,” he said.
Mogo told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that he won the contest easily by performing some of his favourite tracks.
“I came in the right frame of mind, and my playlist of ‘Haiwawo’ and ‘Mapisarema’ was enough to see me sail through,” he noted.
Hailing from Chivhu, the former Copota School for the Blind student said he earns a living as a hustler.
“I do buying and selling in the community, but I spend much of my time in the studio. Music has given me the courage to continue working hard. Pursuing music doesn’t mean we aren’t focused; we actually plan our futures, but God has a way of rewarding us,” he said.
“After this victory, I am looking forward to building my career, and soon I hope to be somewhere doing what I love the most.”
Meanwhile, radio personality and ex-convict, Oscar Pambuka, firmly believes that campaigns against substance and drug abuse often miss the mark by not incorporating survivors as advocates.
The multi-talented media personality emphasised that survivors can play a crucial role in driving the movement forward.
He shared his insights during the “Say No to Drugs” campaign organised by the sponsors of the 2025 Harare Cup Clash, yesterday.
“Over the years, we have seen many people at the forefront of the campaign against drug and substance abuse without engaging survivors,” he said.
“It defies logic because some of the people discussing this subject don’t understand its weight or what it means to some of us.
“Survivors like us, who have struggled with drugs, are key in driving this campaign. As long as we continue to leave them behind, we will go nowhere in this campaign against drug and substance abuse.”
A self-confessed drug abuser who has vowed to enhance this campaign, Pambuka revealed that he has valuable insights to share in the fight against this scourge.
“I will remain open to using my influence to fight this new crisis. We want more of those who have successfully fought their demons to come forward and address this issue.”
Meanwhile, the artistes will finally receive their residential stands early next week as paperwork is still being finalised.
Harare Cup Clash organisers and sponsors reportedly toured the stands this week.
