Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
DENDERA music exponent Suluman Chimbetu might be living large, but he still holds his kith and kin close to his heart.
As an artist from Selous, a semi-rural town in Mashonaland West Province, the leader of Orchestra Dendera Kings has vowed to go out of his way to honour the community.
The 43-year-old recently brought cheers to learners at Simon Chimbetu Primary and Secondary schools in Selous, about 27 kilometres from Chegutu, where he donated a consignment of soccer and netball kits.
He also provided five computers to the primary school, along with a consignment of books and pens to help the learners.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Sulu — as the crooner is fondly known — shared that he has a special attachment to his roots.
“I only completed one term at Selous, but since then, I have always had a special spot for the school, which was named after my father,” he stressed.
“By the way, we have been making these donations for the past 10 years, but sometimes we did it discreetly.
“However, in these days of social media, you can’t hide from people. It has always been my wish to change lives as an influencer and father figure to many. This has been my wish since I was growing up, and I am glad that I am managing to play my part in assisting others.”
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services ambassador noted that it was high time for people to give back to the communities that brought them fame.
“It’s always important for us to remember our roots, which gave us all this fame that we are enjoying today. I am glad that I have a special connection with the community of Selous, and I will continue to do my best to ensure that we do something for our people to make them happy,” he emphasised.
Despite his demanding schedule and responsibilities as the breadwinner, Sulu stated that he still makes time for his charity work and community development.
“I might be a busy man at the moment, but I always find time to ensure that I engage with the rural folk and hear their challenges. For instance, when I visited the two schools, I noticed that a lot was still needed in terms of enhancing ICT learning, which is why we donated five computers. This donation was just a way of trying to empower the rural people to embrace technology, which is essential in every sector nowadays.”
He added: “I have made it a priority that each year we do something for them because the two schools mean a lot to us. Memories are being created, and I am proud to be part of their pride and success. I will do my best to ensure that they are happy and easygoing. It’s not like I am very rich, but I am simply utilising the few resources I have from my hustle to share with all the children in the rural areas.”
Sulu has joined the elite league of stars who donate to less privileged members of society.
These include Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, Diana Samkange, Peter Moyo, the Charambas, and others who still remember their communities.
In Sulu’s case, he has led by example, following in the foot-steps of his late father, Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, who helped many, including strangers in need
dyton mupawaenda