Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Epic!
This phrase perfectly encapsulates the second edition of the Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of Arts (OMIFA), which took place last weekend at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton.
The event held in memory of the late national hero and music icon Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi exceeded all expectations.
Over two captivating days, top performers like Garry Tight and Jah Prayzah paid tribute to the departed icon with pride and passion. Garry, backed by the Black Spirits, delivered an outstanding performance honouring Tuku’s legacy by singing the late Samson Mtukudzi’s songs, a privilege granted to him by Tuku himself.
He reminded many that although Samson might have met his Maker, the legacy he left behind still lives on.
Exuding confidence as ever, the youthful crooner performed as if it were his final day on earth. He brought all his artistic verve after being called to the stage by Samantha Mtukudzi, who fronts the new-look Black Spirits.
“I can’t thank God enough for giving me this perfect opportunity to perform here because I was doing what I enjoy the most. For me the late Dr Tuku was more than a father figure; he gave me all the confidence I needed. I will continue doing my best to ensure that I leave a mark in whatever I do,” he stressed.
“He always wished for me to excel and treated me the same way he treated Sam. I can safely say that everything I have acquired here I gained from him. He saw my talent before I noticed it. Of course, he used to give my father (Willom Tight) and Dino (Mudondo) the exposure, but he saw beyond my dad. I am glad that I am here doing what he taught me to do.”
After his stellar performance, he revealed that it was quite an honour to be part of Tuku’s musical journey.
“Being associated with people like Tuku is quite an honour to say the least. I will continue to do my best to ensure that I won’t disappoint him wherever he is because he taught me about life,” he emphasised.
As for Jah Prayzah, he had nothing to prove since he was Tuku’s mentee.
It was a marvel to watch him on stage as ladies squealed while he belted out hit after hit. He was complemented by his backing group, which is also a collection of stars.
Another revelation of the festival was Isaac Mandava, who has also passed through Tuku’s great tutelage.
Hailing from Gutu in Masvingo, Mandava proved that he was ready for the big stage despite being overlooked by many.
Not to be outdone was Agga Nyabinde, another product of Pakare Paye, who was honouring Tuku not just as a mentor but as a good friend to his late father, Bob “Headmaster” Nyabinde.
“Tuku was not only my late father’s friend; he encouraged me to pursue music despite my academic gifts,” he chuckled after his performance.
“Stepping on this stage meant a lot to me, and I will continue doing my best to honour those who were behind my success. Of course, my father played a big role in this journey, but I can’t ignore the impact Tuku had on my career. I was mentored by two great men—my father and Tuku—something rare for most artists in this country,” he stated.
Tonga outfit Mokoomba had a memorable outing at OMIFA 2025, where they showcased their true colours as great performers. The multilingual group has been representing Zimbabwe with pride overseas, something that has been embraced by many. Being one of the most adored groups from Victoria Falls, they hardly disappoint whenever they take to the stage.
Their lead vocalist, Mathias Muzaza, spoke glowingly about Tuku, whom he called a “legend of legends”.
“Wherever we go, people talk about Tuku, and we have learnt to appreciate him as one of our legends. We will always cherish the good work he did for us, and that alone makes us happy to be associated with his legacy because he has supported us over the years. He taught us how to perform and be original,” he shared.
Muzaza, who sings in many languages, stressed that authenticity is paying off for them.
“To be honest, we have reached a point where we realise that music is a universal language and can be rewarding if we stick to our roots. We simply need to be original just like the late Tuku, who conquered with his Katekwe music. He created a brand that needs to be preserved over the years,” he added.
This year’s edition was a resounding success, featuring a galaxy of stars including Bongo Maffin, Hwamanda, Tamy Moyo and many others as part of the line up. Tuku’s widow, Daisy Mtukudzi, was ecstatic as the occasion lived up to expectations.
“We have always wanted to honour my husband, and this is the perfect way to respect the legacy he created. Of course, he is gone, but having a galaxy of stars celebrating him is a triumph for us. He was a man of the people, and we will always cherish what he did for us and the nation at large,” she said.
“We will continue honouring him this way because he was not only a legend, but a loving soul who gave us special memories. We will continue to enjoy the music he created for years to come, and this was a special way to honour him this weekend. This was only the second edition, and you should expect more from us.”
Tuku died on January 23, 2019, at the age of 66.
He was born on September 22, and today is his special birthday. Tuku would have turned 73 today, but he will be celebrated posthumously.
