Mudimba: A unifying force in music

DT BiO Mudimba

MUSICIAN DT BiO Mudimba has spoken with honour about the role music played in the liberation struggle and its continued importance in uniting the nation, both then and now.

The Binga-bred musician said music was a powerful tool used to motivate and inspire soldiers to give their best as they fought for Zimbabwe to attain its independence.

He expressed these sentiments at a time when the nation is preparing to celebrate the 46th Independence on April 18, at Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, Matabeleland South.

With music playing a massive role in bringing people together, a musical gala will be held at the Minda High School grounds from 6PM, immediately after the official proceedings, and will run throughout the night.

The gala will feature a number of artistes including the iconic Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele, Sulumani Chimbetu, Mbare Chimurenga, LMG Choir, Iyasa, Martin Sibanda and Ndolwane Super Sounds, Clement Magwaza, among others.

Also among the performers is DT BiO Mudimba, who stands out not only for his artistry, but for his deep appreciation of music’s historical and contemporary significance. The Kujata Jata hitmaker expressed great excitement about taking the stage.

“Performing at the national Independence Gala is always a great honour. It’s more than just a show as it is a celebration of our hard-won freedom, a moment to reflect on our journey. It is also a platform to inspire unity for the future. To share the stage with such talented artistes from across the country, here in Matabeleland South, embodies the very spirit of Zimbabwe,|” he said.

Mudimba passionately emphasised music’s foundational role in Zimbabwe’s birth. He recalled how musicians were vital comrades in arms during the liberation struggle.

“Music wasn’t just entertainment back then, it was a weapon, a lifeline, and a mobilising force. Musicians composed songs that boosted the morale of the freedom fighters marching towards independence. These songs carried coded messages, fuelled revolutionary spirit, articulated the objectives of the struggle, and reminded everyone of the homeland they were fighting for.

“They united communities behind a common cause and gave voice to the people’s yearning for freedom. That power of music to inspire, unite, and drive change, is woven into the very fabric of our nationhood,” he said.

As such, Mudimba has inherited this tradition of socially conscious music. His recent release, Twabeyi Shuwa (“Tapindwa Nei Shuwa” in Shona / “Singenwe Yini Shuwa” in IsiNdebele), directly confronts anti-social behaviour, cultural erosion and moral decay.

He sees this as a natural extension of the musician’s role.

“Just as music served the struggle then, it must serve the nation now. Today, our battle is against division, apathy, and social ills threatening our progress. Music remains a powerful tool to unite our diverse people, promote positive values, reignite cultural pride, and rally citizens behind national goals like Vision 2030.

“When we sing together on Independence Day, we are not just celebrating the past, we are reaffirming our shared identity and commitment to building a better Zimbabwe,” said Mudimba.

Adding to the anticipation, Mudimba revealed that he will treat the Maphisa audience to a preview of his upcoming album.

“The gala is the perfect stage to share new material. It’s a celebration of our resilience and future, and my new work speaks directly to that spirit of celebrating our heritage while looking forward with hope,” he said.