Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
GENERALLY, Zimbabweans are deeply attached to their totems.
Research shows that totems are sacred ancestral emblems, usually represented by animals, plants or natural elements, that distinguish different clans and families.
They are regarded as a fundamental part of the country’s cultural fabric, serving to define social identity, organise kinship, prevent incest and promote environmental conservation.
In the entertainment industry, event organisers and arts promoters have increasingly embraced the cultural significance of totems.
The late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi was among those who placed great value on totems. He even came up with the ‘Nzou Nemhuru Mudanga’ concert series, in which he toured with alongside his late son, Sam.The concept became a hit with fans.One of the men behind the series, Josh Hozheri, still fondly relishes the memories of working with Tuku, who proudly identified with the Samanyanga or Nzou totem.
Now, another totem appears to be taking centre stage — Mhofu, also known as Shava. The Mhofu totem is one of the most recognised in Zimbabwe because it represents one of the country’s largest and most widespread clans, the VaHera. Rooted in the ancient Guruuswa migrations, its prominence is driven by rich symbolism, praise poetry (detembo) and the cultural significance of the Chihera women.
Inspired by that heritage, Hozheri has launched a new concept dubbed ‘Mhofu Dzichifara Mudanga’ concert, which takes place this evening at 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale, Harare.
The show will feature Victor Kunonga, Alexio Kawara and Selmor Mtukudzi, whose husband, Tendai Manatsa, belongs to the Mhofu totem.
“To be honest, I came up with this concept after everything I learnt from Tuku over the years, and I simply want to promote the Mhofu totem,” Hozheri told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub. After what we used to do with Tuku in promoting the Nzou totem, I felt I could also go the extra mile and honour people who belong to the Mhofu totem. In my case, I came up with this concept to give people variety.
“I have also realised that people are looking for something different and, as 105 Promotions, this is exactly what we can offer music lovers because they have been yearning for fresh concepts.
“I am glad that we have come up with this initiative because it means a lot to us.”Hozheri, a seasoned promoter, said there is more to come as far as celebrating other totems is concerned.“The feedback we have received has been overwhelming, and people have really embraced these concepts.”
Hozheri said he remains determined to leave a lasting mark on Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry.
“I have been in the game for years and the country knows what I have done for the creative sector.We are not stopping. We will continue doing our best to ensure that the industry thrives.On that note, we are ready to continue serving the sector with distinction,” he said.
Judging by the line-up, Kunonga is undoubtedly one of the major attractions at the event.
The seasoned musician has spent decades in the industry and drew significant inspiration from the late Mtukudzi.
Kunonga has maintained remarkable consistency since bursting onto the music scene at the turn of the millennium.Kawara has recently devoted much of his time to ministry work, but he continues to embrace his calling as a musician. He remains one of Zimbabwe’s finest artists, constantly reinventing himself. He is also an accomplished mbira player, having mastered the instrument after first establishing himself as a vocalist.
