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IRELAND-BASED music promoter Canford Danga has a soft spot for Afro-fusion musician, Innocent “Sarungano” Kufakunesu.
Sarungano, who was groomed by Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, is billed to embark on his maiden tour of Europe next month.
He is set to perform at Pillo Hotel in Ashbourne County on June 16.
His show coincides with the Day of the African Child celebrations.
He is set to share the stage with Ngoni Kambarami and Quonfuzed.
“We have been impressed with the group’s performances and initiatives geared towards societal issues and we are confident that their music will act as a gap to alleviate homesickness within the African community here in Ireland,” said Danga.
“The group’s music is diverse and involves story telling of African history, which appeals to most of us here in the African community, hence the reason they are the standout band for such a historical occasion.”
Danga, who has another calling in mentorship, shared some of his expectations.
“Our blueprint is to look at upcoming musicians and nurture untamed talent.
“He is a young artist, who is keen in promoting our culture and heritage, which fits well with our team’s ethos of intercultural diversity, integration and inclusion as well as putting our own country Zimbabwe on the map.”
Danga, who is also a member of Team Zimbabwe Ireland Football Club, has always been in touch with Sarungano, from his days in college.
“I was touched by one of his performances at the University of Zimbabwe.
“He was offered only a few minutes to showcase his talent and he absolutely smashed it.
“Since then I have followed his progress in the music industry.” Sarungano is likely to benefit from more engagement in Ireland.
“We have organised shows here in Ireland with local artists, but this will be the first of a kind with Zimbabwean artists.
“Team Zimbabwe FC goes beyond our affiliation to a league governed by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).
“We are family, not only here in Ireland, but also back home. We once organised a football match with ZimDancehall musicians in 2019 raising funds for Cyclone Idai victims and we drove to Chimanimani with the team to handover our donations.”
With less than a fortnight before the event, Danga is humbled by the show’s response.
“This show is for everyone including the native Irish people.
“Zimbabwean music has been appreciated across the country through the team’s participation in various events such as commemoration of the Irish St Patricks’ Day, organising our own Zim Independence celebration and inviting other nationals as well as celebrating International days such as this one – Day of the African child.
“We are targeting all age groups, as music brings people together.
“It will be interesting if we can have larger numbers in the youth section as they are the leaders of tomorrow at some stage, we will need them to continue flying our flag high.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter