Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
Dendera music exponent Suluman Chimbetu recently made history by becoming the first Zimbabwean to perform at the inaugural UN Tourism First World and Tourism Festival held in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The 43-year-old crooner, backed by the star-studded Orchestra Dendera Kings, expressed his delight at sharing the stage with some of the continent’s finest musicians.
True to form, he also had the opportunity to perform during a scenic boat cruise on the River Congo.
The festival aimed to promote tourism, peace and unity, featuring an array of stars, including Kenyan act Savara and a host of Congolese talents such as Fally Ipupa, Gas Mawete, Gally Garvey, Yekima, and DJ Dakhazar, among others.
Zimbabwe’s presence was strongly felt as Suluman represented the nation with pride.
In an interview, Sulu — as the crooner is fondly known — expressed his excitement after receiving the opportunity to perform in Kinshasa, a tourism and entertainment hub.
“I can’t thank God enough for this perfect opportunity, which saw us meeting tourism chiefs, international visitors, and music fans from July 16-18 this year.
“I thoroughly enjoyed representing my country in the DRC, which means a lot to us.
“Being the first Zimbabwean to perform at this inaugural event was a historic moment for us, and we will continue doing our best,” he shared.
“I was also humbled as fans sang along to some of my songs, and the feedback is all that we wanted after releasing our latest album, “Tsapo,” which has revitalised our spirits.
“This kind of love from fans is all that we needed as we continue to make great strides in showbiz at the moment. It is my hope that my troupe will build on that triumph as we return home for a series of live shows. We feel inspired and motivated after this milestone.”
After the DRC show, Sulu believes he has nothing to prove as a cultural ambassador.
“I have always wanted to represent my country with distinction wherever I am, not because of my military background, but because I fully utilise every opportunity I get to market Zimbabwe.
“I am proud of my roots, and I have been preaching the same gospel within my circles. No matter what we are going through as a nation, nothing can beat the love I witnessed recently in Kinshasa,” he continued.
Now that he is back on home turf, Sulu has vowed to continue giving fans value for their money with the Simon Chopper Commemoration Gala set for Chegutu next month.
It will mark the 20th anniversary celebration for the late Marxist Brothers co-founder, who died in 2005. For Sulu, it will signify two decades as a professional musician who has seen it all.
It is a rare feat worth celebrating, as Sulu has been consistent for years.
He has been attracting loyal fans during his shows, and of late, attendance has swelled, indicating that Sulu is winning back the hearts of old fans.
“It feels good to be back home in style, and we can only promise more action to our fans out there. We have nothing to prove, but we are simply humbled by the loyalty.
“A lot is in place with regional and international tours lined up. The Simon Chopper Chimbetu Commemoration Gala is also coming back, and there is no way we can slow down,” he stated.
He conceded that morale was high in camp, as teamwork and loyalty are now paying off.
“We are a well-knit family where we preach nothing but love, unity and care. We have devised the principle that we eat what we kill, and we are all happy with that arrangement.
“As one of the most consistent bands at the moment, we also cherish the faith that promoters, festival-goers, and international talent scouts have shown us over the years,” he stressed.
Being the heir apparent to the Chimbetu throne, Sulu is aware of the responsibilities that come with that honour.
“To be honest, it’s not only about me but also about the family, which should come first.
“My father left an impressive body of work, and it is up to the family to safeguard it and make him proud wherever he is. We will keep pushing and ensure the legacy lives on for years to come.”
