President hands over vehicles to choirs

THE Second Republic recognises Creative and Cultural Industries as a vital pillar in Zimbabwe’s economic transformation agenda, President Mnangagwa has said.

In his remarks at a ceremony held at State House in Harare yesterday, where he hosted the Chitungwiza Harmony Singers and Light Machine Gun (LMG) Choir, the President said against this backdrop, the Government was deliberately targeting the creative industries and tourism as major engines for advancing socio-economic development and improving livelihoods.

“Culture is indeed not merely an expression of identity but a lucrative industry. Under NDS2, we are deliberately prioritising the growth of the creative industries and tourism as key drivers of socio-economic progress. The choral arts create opportunities across a wide value chain, ranging from composers and costume designers, to sound engineers, producers and event organisers, among others,” President Mnangagwa said.

He said it was essential to ensure young people knew that, through their individual talents and creativity, they could earn a dignified living.

“This is a thriving ecosystem that should be collectively preserved by both the private and public sectors.
“We want all young Zimbabweans to know that their unique talents can secure dignified livelihoods,” he said.
At the ceremony, the President handed over a minibus to Chitungwiza Harmony Singers, a twin cab vehicle to their Choir Master and a 15-seater minibus to LMG Choir, among other gifts.

He commended the Chitungwiza Harmony Singers for raising the country’s flag high at the prestigious Tiro Mapane Choral Competitions held in South Africa.

“You proclaimed our national identity, resilience and enduring spirit of unity and harmony to the world.
“Your victory resonates, therefore, far beyond melody and rhythm by speaking to the aspirations of our nation, as articulated in Vision 2030.

“Through your captivating performances, you have demonstrated that songs nurtured in Chitungwiza can compete and triumph on the international stage. You were good ambassadors of ‘Brand Zimbabwe,’ as you showcased our rich heritage and talent with extreme pride.

“Today, we celebrate your hard work, discipline and the team spirit that has seen you achieve this milestone. The nation at large is proud of your achievements,” he said.

On the revolutionary LMG, President Mnangagwa said the choir stood as a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe’s liberation history, deeply rooted in the lived experiences of the armed struggle for independence.

Liberation war cadres and communities alike used song as a vital tool of communication, unity, mobilisation and ideological grounding.

The LMG Choir derives its name from a prominent weapon of the liberation struggle, the legendary Light Machine Gun, “while the musical lyrics were embedded with coded messages to inform and educate communities towards advancing the wartime effort”.

“I recall with fond memories how the sounds of LMG Choir, along with others within our liberation movements, had a tempo of combat, which strengthened our resolve as fighters.

“The songs also helped to mobilise communities, inspiring courage and hope for the collective vision for an independent and free Zimbabwe.

“The choir, thus, meaningfully contributed to the psychological and cultural dimensions of the struggle, reinforcing the identity and purpose of those who fought for national sovereignty,” President Mnangagwa said.

In post-independent Zimbabwe, the President said the LMG Choir has continued to play a vital role in preserving and promoting Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, evolving from its wartime roots into a respected cultural ensemble, performing at numerous platforms.

“Through music, the choir has ensured that the history of the liberation struggle remains alive in the national consciousness, particularly among generations.

“The performances serve as a living archive that bridges the past and present while fostering a sense of identity, patriotism and continuity within Zimbabwean society,” he said.

To the members of the two choral groups, President Mnangagwa said the country celebrated their passion for excellence.

“You embody the spirit of Ubuntu. Your voices uplift our nation and are a constant reminder that people who sing together, stand together, in unity, peace and love.

“I once again commend you, the Chitungwiza Harmony Singers and LMG Choir, for the role you continue to play within the arts and culture sector of our nation.

“Through you, and other creatives, may the rich cultural heritage, rhythms and history of our nation never fade,” said the President.

Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture Minister Ambassador Anselem Sanyatwe said the two ensembles represented much more than music excellence.

He commended the groups for their contributions to the country’s arts and culture landscape.
Minister Sanyatwe said Government regarded arts and culture as drivers of socio-economic emancipation.

“As we march towards an upper-middle-income economy, it is through such innovations . . . that we unlock new opportunities for our people,” he said.