Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Zimbabwe’s contemporary music scene got a major boost this week as the British Council’s Music Connects Africa (MCA) accelerator programme wrapped up its 2025 edition with a vibrant showcase. The event, brimming with music lovers and industry professionals, highlighted how MCA is empowering a new generation of Zimbabwean artistes and music entrepreneurs with skills, funding, and global opportunities.
Previously known as Scripts & Bars, MCA has become a key driver of music industry development in Zimbabwe. Delivered locally by Kay Media Africa in partnership with UK-based Reprezent Radio and supported by the Embassy of Switzerland, 2025 marked its third successful cohort since launching in 2022. Over its lifespan, the programme has supported more than 200 Zimbabwean creatives.
The showcase featured live performances from Melyssa, SAIIREN, Paintafresco, and Noluntu J, representing diverse genres from afro-pop and jazz to rap and hip-hop. Alongside the performances, the event highlighted the creative work produced during the programme, showing the tangible outcomes of MCA’s intensive support.
The 2025 cohort enrolled 50 participants, 40% of whom were women, engaging talent across Zimbabwe including Mutare, Chinhoyi, Marondera, Bulawayo, Zvishavane, Plumtree, Hwange, and Victoria Falls. Participants received expert training in branding, contracts, IP monetisation, marketing, PR, artiste management, touring, and brand partnerships through six masterclasses led by industry professionals from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the UK. An additional five-module online course strengthened their business and entrepreneurial skills.
MCA also created performance and market access opportunities. Seven live showcase events in Harare and Bulawayo reached over 2 000 people, providing stage experience for 16 music creatives, 62% women. Impressively, 75% of performers secured immediate bookings following these events.
The programme also facilitated content creation and commercial output. Eleven creatives produced 14 new songs at a recording camp, eight of which were selected for commercial release. Seed funding granted to 10 participants resulted in 15 tracks, seven professional music videos, and two live performance videos, showcasing Zimbabwean talent ready for global audiences. Artistes such as Masa Caroleen, KhweziZW, Dorthy Chipo, DJs Tapiwa, Yugoe, and Naida benefited from these opportunities.
The MCA 2025 content has already reached over 500 000 views online, highlighting its immediate resonance with audiences. Participants reported strong outcomes, with 90% confirming their skills will advance their careers and 95% viewing music as a viable long-term career.
Keith Kuhudzai, MCA project delivery lead, praised the programme: “When Zimbabwean creatives are given the right tools, investment, and opportunities, their potential is limitless. Careers are being built, new music is being created, and the industry is evolving. The impact will be clear in the next 3-5 years.”
Delivered with partners including Ditto Music Africa, Downtown Publishing, Honey & Blanckenberg, Star FM, Lemon Groove Brands, Sofarsounds Harare, Haus of Stone, and Magitare Trust, MCA will continue running annually until 2028, with ongoing alumni support.
As the 2025 showcase concluded, the message was clear: Music Connects Africa is not just a programme, it’s shaping Zimbabwe’s music industry, giving artistes skills, visibility, and global reach. The talent is undeniable, the impact is tangible, and the world is starting to listen.
– Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
