adminBongani Ndlovu Showbiz Correspondent
SKYZ Metro FM producers who were appointed this week have expressed confidence that their programmes will be popular among the new radio station’s listeners. The station, which is expected to start broadcasting on September 1, on Monday released names of its producers who are mainly celebrities, musicians, soccer legends and comedians — igniting debate among many as to whether they will be able to deliver.
On the list were former Highlanders legendary striker — Zenzo “Zemura” Moyo, former Miss Tourism Zimbabwe — Samantha Tshuma, songstress — Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi, comedian — Babongile Sikhonjwa, event organiser — Gilmore “Tee” Moyo, television personality — Mbo Mahocs and blogger — Charmaine Fynn.
Completing the list are reggae musician — Gabriel “Gabs Fire” Nyandoro, former ZBC employee — Luke Mnkandla Mbalenhle Ndlovu, Sonny Jermain, Bonweyinkosi Sithole, Leslie Phiri, Nkululeko Nkala and Mehluli Majoni.
Skyz Metro FM station manager, Godwin Phiri yesterday expressed confidence with the producers who he said were carefully selected because of their undiscovered talent.
He said the prospective producers were required to submit proposals highlighting what they sought to bring to the station prior to their engagement.
“People submitted their concepts and the ones we chose had outstanding radio programmes that were in line with our station’s vision. Our selection was based on talent, nothing else,” Phiri said.
“We didn’t want to recycle presenters. We wanted fresh young talent that had new ideas. We’re happy we found such people and we’re confident they’ll do well.”
Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi said she already coined her show “The Hub”, whose name was derived from her boutique — Sandy’s Hub. The programme will be centred on social issues, especially those which affect the girl child.
“There’re a lot of issues about the girl child that we’re afraid to talk about as a society. Experts will also give people advice on setting up and running businesses,” Ndebele-Sibindi said.
She said since she was a producer, she would look for a competent person to host the show on her behalf.
“I’m in the process of looking for at least two presenters for the show. I’m just a producer and maybe once in a while, I’ll feature on the programme,” she said.
Asked if she was up to the task of being a producer, Ndebele-Sibindi said she once had a stint at Radio Dialogue where she helped produce programmes.
Socialite Gilmore “Tee” Moyo, who will host the “Gilmore Tee Vibe”, said he was excited to be producing for Bulawayo’s first commercial radio station.
“I’m really excited and can’t wait to hit the airwaves. It’s going to be witty and fun. Co-hosting with Mbo Mahocs and also supporting her individual show is an incredible opportunity to continue growing our entities,” said Gilmore Tee.
The event organiser, who was once attached at Radio Dialogue Youth Press, said his show would be about connecting locals and those in the Diaspora and celebrating their successes. Babongile Sikhonjwa will host, among other programmes, the Breakfast show “Dollar Dollar” every Tuesday and Friday. It will be a comic look at trending issues.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase the talents that we have. I’ve been in the arts industry for the past couple of years, I’m sure I know one or two things.
“With the popularity of comedy and the talent we’ve in Bulawayo, I’m confident that we’re going to have a successful show,” he said.
Phiri said they were certain they would attract advertisers because of their programming which he hopes will keep listeners tuned in.
“Our mandate is to play 75 percent local music and that 75 percent will be from Bulawayo artistes and those from the Matabeleland region,” he said.
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