Chronicle Editor
Showbiz Reporter
To a large extent, it is argued that Bulawayo is Zimbabwe’s arts hub, having produced theatrical groups such as Iyasa and renowned musicians like Jeys Marabini and Lovemore Majaivana.
Often than not, icons in this city are celebrated by the general public based on accomplishments, yet it is seldom to find an icon making an effort to celebrate populi.
Probably known by a few, Victor Kunonga, an award-winning Afro-jazz artiste was born and raised in Bulawayo. He learnt at Hugh Beadle Primary School and was Rev P Damasane’s student at Northlea High School.
This is where he started his musical career which he has excelled in, making him an unfathomable musician in the African afro contemporary jazz genre.
This past weekend, Kunonga who is based in Harare took time off his schedule to show appreciation to the community he grew up in, Sauerstown, in Bulawayo.
He visited the home where he used to reside while growing up and was filled with nostalgic moments.
He also visited the two schools and had a rare chance to inspire and motivate learners at Hugh Beadle Primary School during assembly time. At Northlea, he addressed the learnerss on the importance of being focused and keeping away from drugs.
He took advantage of the visit to the schools to talk about arts as a career option and address the subject of substance abuse which is a major concern for greater Zimbabwe.
He also visited the Bulawayo Polytechnic Applied Art and Design division where he gave students there a motivational talk.
During the course of the day, Kunonga and his Band Peace partnered with Spar Zimbabwe (Joshua Nkomo branch) and embarked on a successful cleanup campaign. Later on, Skyz Metro FM media personality Taboka Mandazi hosted Kunonga at the radio station for an interview.
Thereafter, he met Pastor Nleya, a man who has greatly influenced the showbiz scene by grooming the likes of Mkhululi Bhebhe, Eric Moyo, Tamy Bimha, Ali Mthombeni and Erastus.
To top it all, on Friday evening, the artiste staged a free unplugged show at the Sauerstown shops which was aimed at raising awareness of substance abuse. Close to 100 people were transfixed as they gazed at the legendary icon strum the strings of the acoustic guitar.
Commenting on his visit to the city, Kunonga said: “The homecoming was one of the most fulfilling journeys I’ve ever embarked on in recent years based on its success. The community I grew up in came in their numbers to see me in action, more importantly, the elderly who may never have had a chance to watch me perform. The cleanup exercise was a good lead and exemplary as well.”
He said visiting Northlea High School and Hugh Beadle brought back so many memories. He said he saw himself in the learners.
“It was amazing interacting with the primary students as I told them about the importance of focusing on their career choice early as well as shunning drug and alcohol abuse.
“I’ve so many memories of Hugh Beadle Primary School as I learnt how to swim and do long and triple jump there. Also, I formed my first singing group there when I was in Grade 6. With the support of the headmaster (the late Mr Mpofu) and Mr Malaba (late), we performed in front of the class and the school.”
Simon Mzungu, Kunonga’s manager thanked the Bulawayo community for coming out in their numbers to support the artiste on his initiative.
“Not only did the public turnout to support, but some showbiz stakeholders also came through. These included Loud Records producer Erastus Nleya as well as Sydney who played bass for the Harare-based icon.
Although there were no rehearsals conducted, he gelled fluidly with the band,” Mzungu said.
He further encouraged artistes to find time to engage with their respective communities.
“I’d like to encourage artistes to emulate what Victor did for his community as it brings hope to many and revives the spirit of Ubuntu.”
Online Reporter