Chronicle Editor
Leonard Ncube and Tracy Moyo
ARTISTES from Matabeleland North got a shot in the arm after the Zimbabwe Musicians’ Union (Zimu) organised a training workshop to capacitate them with skills to manage themselves and market their work.
Artistes including musicians, dancers, actors, producers, have over the years, expressed concern over being sidelined from national events.
The workshop was held at Chinotimba Hall in Victoria Falls.
Zimu vice president, Ms Chioneso Rutsito, who is also vice-resident of the International Federation of Musicians Union, facilitated the workshop, which had various presenters including praise poet Obert Dube.
Ms Rutsito said artists need capacity building, access to legal resources, business opportunities, policy implementation and assistance on foreign assignments.
“The idea is to get musicians to understand their issues and standards in the sector. We are here to also listen to their concerns as we look at issues that burden artists. So, this is the 10th and last lap in the programme as we have done in other provinces,” she said.
“Most artistes did not attend because they are employed elsewhere as they don’t earn from music. So, most musicians are always unavailable because they are busy trying to make ends meet.”
After the training, each province is expected to come up with an executive committee, which will also undergo leadership training.
Arts is a lucrative business in Victoria Falls, where traditional dance groups earn a living through performing for tourists.
However, they are less considered for live performances at public and corporate events.
The workshop was meant to help artists negotiate contracts and realise the importance of having managers for them to be able to compete with established artists.
It also helps foster unity among artists who are usually known for picking personal fights.
Zimu is registered with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe.
Ms Rutsito said Zimu is celebrating 10 years since its establishment and has been facing financial challenges to carry its mandate over the years until it struck partnerships with donors.
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