Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
SUNGURA musician DT BiO Mudimba is set to celebrate Africa’s cultural heritage, identity and unity in a new single that pays tribute to the continent’s rich history while encouraging Africans to embrace their shared roots.
Rather than limiting his tribute to Africa Day commemorations on May 25, Mudimba has opted for a year-round musical expression of pride in the continent he holds dear.
The artiste will release his latest single, “Pakala Africa”, on July 10 across major streaming platforms, adding a culturally rich offering to Zimbabwe’s evolving sungura landscape.
In an interview, Mudimba said the song draws inspiration from African social history, with particular emphasis on the traditions of the Tonga people who historically lived along the Zambezi River. Through vivid storytelling, the musician recreates scenes of communal life along the Zambezi, highlighting how natural resources shaped livelihoods and strengthened community bonds.
The song also reflects on cultural and social practices that brought people together, particularly evening gatherings around fires where storytelling, music and dance were central to community life.
Mudimba said these moments form part of the song’s nostalgic core.
“On another part in the song, I cite recreation and entertainment where they could gather around fires and listen and dance to traditional instruments like Tunkobela (Tonga mbira), drums and animals’ horns trumpet and drums (ngoma buntibe). This brought joy and unified communities including our Zambian side based relatives who could cross to the Zimbabwean side or vice-versa to attend such gatherings and ceremonies,” he said.
The track also revisits childhood memories that have gradually faded in modern communities, including traditional games played from sunset into the night.
“I also remember activities that we used to do as children such as playing games like (Nkayoome and Chibbebbula) at sunset till moon rise,” he said.
As the song progresses, it evolves into a call for divine guidance and continental solidarity, urging Africans to protect their identity and values.
“As the song progresses, I pray for Africa and Zimbabwe in particular asking God to watch over us and help us preserve our identity as Africans. I also encourage us to be proud of who we are as Africans, love our country, love each other and unite as one continent of Africa,” said Mudimba.
Mudimba and his band, Kaani Stars, have become part of a new wave of sungura artists blending fast-paced guitar rhythms with socially conscious and culturally grounded storytelling.
