Andrew
Society Reporter
IT was a night of music, dance and fun.
While people enjoyed the best the country has to offer with regard to creative talent, the objective of the gathering was, however, never lost.
The message “No to illegal sanctions” imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States and its allies was loud and clear.
The Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Day concert held on October 25 at the Aquatic Complex in Chitungwiza lived up to the billing.
Entertainers – who include Chillspot’s DJ Fantan, Ndunge Yut, dendera crooner Suluman “Sulu” Chimbetu, Mathias Mhere, Minister Michael Mahendere, Agartha Murudzwa, Andy Muridzo, Romeo Gasa, Sandra Ndebele and Dorcas Moyo – delivered polished acts. Musicians, revellers and politicians who attended the event were united in their call for the removal of sanctions that have caused untold suffering for Zimbabweans.
“We came here in Chitungwiza so that we are all united on this very important day on which we say no to sanctions. Sanctions have disturbed a lot of things in this country. I am glad that the people of Zimbabwe are united and saying no to sanctions,” said Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa during the concert.
She was accompanied by her husband, Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa; Deputy Minister Mr Kindness Paradza; and Permanent Secretary Mr Nick Mangwana.
Also present was the director of media services in the ministry, Mr George Chisoko.
Minister Mutsvangwa and her team had an opportunity to put their dancing skills to the test when they joined Sulu and Sandra Ndebele on stage for their different sets. The Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Day, which is commemorated on October 25 every year, was set aside by SADC as a day on which the region calls for the removal of the illegal embargo.
“We thank SADC and the African Union for standing with us in the call for the removal of sanctions. The President has sent us as the Ministry of Information to unite the people of Zimbabwe.
“That is why we are here today, to commemorate the Anti-Sanctions Day through music and dance. We will dance the whole night. Let’s be united under the leadership of President Mnangagwa. People in the diaspora are saying no to sanctions, so is everyone else in Africa.”
The Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Day concert ran under the theme “Enhancing Zimbabwe’s resilience through economic engagement and re-engagement”.
Contrary to claims by the US and its allies that the sanctions are “targeted”, they are adversely affecting all Zimbabweans and the economy. Afro-fusion singer Andy Muridzo said the event was for a noble cause.
“We are feeling the effects of the sanctions. Sanctions have affected us in all spheres of our day-to-day life. It is, thus, imperative that we speak with one voice as a country against the sanctions,” he said.
Revellers thanked the Government for making the concert a success.
“This is a special moment for me. It is my first time to watch Mathias Mhere and Minister Mahendere live on stage. This is a well- organised event, and I hope those responsible for imposing sanctions on us will take heed of the calls being made here,” said Tinashe Mapuranga.
“The war of liberation, Chimurenga, was won through song and dance. Let’s continue singing against sanctions until the West listens to us,” said Cde Paddy, who came all the way from Murehwa district for the concert.
As usual, Sulu delivered a solid act. However, it was Mhere and Dorcas Moyo who set the stage on fire with their energetic performances.
Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu