Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Musicians performing at the 46th Uhuru Gala, slated for Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, firmly believe the event will cement their romance with fans.
Watched by millions across the divide, the event — broadcast live from start to finish — will take place at Minda High School under the theme “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030.”
Top musicians who spoke to Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub promised a rare night to remember. Revolutionary singer Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sanyanga, who has endeared himself to fans at national events, promised yet another memorable night.
“I can’t wait to perform in Maphisa, where I command a huge following,” he stressed. “This year’s event is a bit special because the President’s mantra of leaving no one behind is being taken seriously, as Maphisa is hosting a national event which is set to bring Zimbabweans together.
“To me, it is special because we are celebrating our independence as one people, and I am glad I have been afforded a rare opportunity to shine with my peers.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Suluman Chimbetu, who has vowed to give his best each time he takes to the podium.
“I love my country, and nothing will take that away,” Chimbetu said.
“Each time I perform at a State function, I feel blessed. It makes me feel responsible and pushes me to do my best for my country.”
Andy Muridzo, who was raised in Bulawayo, revealed that the gala was more of a reunion with his fans in Matabeleland.
“It feels good to be performing in Matabeleland, which is closer to Bulawayo — my favourite town — since I once stayed there. Each time that I perform, there is a special connection between my fans and me, which gives me the urge to do well on stage. I can only promise fireworks because the new dispensation under President Mnangagwa has given us the freedom to express ourselves on a bigger platform.
“I can assure fans that I won’t disappoint them in Maphisa,” he boldly declared.
Dereck Mpofu, who has settled well in Harare but still has strong roots in Plumtree, praised Government for decentralising the celebrations.
“I am excited about the invitation to perform in Maphisa, which is my first time there, even though I come from the same region in Plumtree,” he said.
“I felt humbled when I was called to be part of the line-up in Maphisa, and I can’t wait to meet my peers there, who have been longing to see me on stage. I am also longing to share the stage with some of the guys from Bulawayo, and it will be quite an amazing experience, to say the least.
“We are more than prepared for the occasion, and fans should expect nothing but fireworks in Maphisa.
“I would like to applaud my Government for this initiative of leaving no one behind by taking such events countrywide.
“We are more than excited to be performing there, and we are simply going to do our best as we celebrate our independence.”
As a national event, top musicians are set to grace the gala, headlined by Imbube exponent Sotja Moyo, who fronts Black Umfolosi of the Unity fame. The line-up also includes Chase Skuza, Sandra Ndebele and Jeys Marabini as top acts. Other artistes on the programme include Gudoluhle and Friends, Dubia Masters, Bolamba Culture Birds, Zondamuthakathi Dance Group, and Zinja Ziyamuluman Mxolisi, along with other surprise acts from the region.
During the build-up, the Black Umfolosi camp, Skuza, Magwaza and Ndebele assured fans of a fun-filled gala.
It is also refreshing that revellers’ safety has been taken care of by Government during preparations, with fire and ambulance services availed.
All these efforts are meant to make Maphisa Growth Point buzz this weekend with music and excitement.
Like any other national event of this magnitude, stallholders and local enterprises are also looking forward to the event, which is expected to awaken the usually sleepy town of Maphisa into song and dance. Serious road rehabilitation has also taken place in the area, with Government hosting State functions.
A business boom is expected, with Government assuring attendees of maximum security.
Last year, Nembudziya Government High School in Gokwe, Midlands, hosted the 45th Uhuru Musical Gala, featuring an impressive line-up that included Simon Mutambi, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Clement Magwaza, Argatha Murudzwa, Shantel Sithole, Jah Signal, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Sandra Ndebele and Peter Moyo.
