Online Reporter
Online Reporter
MBIRA Month celebrations are in full swing across Zimbabwe, with various venues hosting traditional music events.
The mbira, a vital part of the nation’s heritage, holds deep cultural significance.
Most traditional music groups, especially those focused on mbira, have confirmed packed schedules this month.
“Our group usually has a busy calendar throughout the year, but demand has doubled this month through both public and private bookings. It is unlike any other time,” said Virimai Nhedega, leader of the youthful Dziva ReMbira ensemble.
His colleague, Kurai Makore, added: “This is a special month for us and I am pleased the spotlight is on the mbira instrument, which is a vital cog in Chimurenga music.”
For Sasha Amadhuve, Mbira Month is a time for players to shine.
“Mbira music is part of our culture — loved and respected by many. Venue owners have done us proud by honouring Mbira Month with increased traditional music gigs. We always appreciate their support, but this time it is on another level,” she said.
In 2020, the mbira was inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, leading to renewed global appreciation for the instrument.
September has since been officially designated as Mbira Month in both Zimbabwe and Malawi.
The month-long celebrations will culminate in the annual Bira ReMbira Festival on September 27 at the Heritage Village in Harare.
“Bira ReMbira organisers have come up with a great initiative. We are celebrating Mbira Month to revitalise the instrument’s cultural significance, which was suppressed during colonial times,” said Mathias Bangure, projects and events manager for Tamari Resorts and Grub Restaurants.
“Since the start of the month, we have hosted various mbira groups, including Dziva ReMbira led by Vee Mhofu. This weekend, we will host Sasha Amadhuve and Mbira DzeNharira on different days, along with many other groups throughout the month.”
Meanwhile, the Bira ReMbira Festival — a free public event supported by the Government — will feature a mix of indoor and outdoor activities under the theme: “Our Identity, Our Pride – Engraving Our Culture and Heritage Through Generations.”
According to festival manager Benjamin Nyandoro, this year’s edition promises to be a memorable celebration of culture and heritage.
It will showcase not only music but also exhibitions of traditional food, games, cultural practices and the art of mbira making and playing, along with other traditional instruments.
In addition to local acts, a mbira group from Malawi is scheduled to perform, highlighting the regional significance of the instrument.
Tinaye Agere