The Makokoba project

WHEN some are complaining, others act on the problem. Such is the prevailing attitude in the creative industry in the city. The bone of contention among the grumpy lot is the issue of marginalisation. Of course the market reacts in ways less encouraging. There is no appreciation of any production by the local market. Music, theatre, comedy and all other art forms smack of a tale of an ailing industry.

Nothing will materialise for the better, when people sit and do nothing. Then, how is the complaining going to bring about change for the better? Countless times, in this space we have underscored the need for industry players to come together. Captains of industry meet regularly to chat possible ways to turn around the economy. Artistes must do the same.

Gone is the time of lounging and expect fans to buy your product, for the radio DJ to play your crap song. Engage every interested party. Conversations are the way to go.

Thankfully, young minds are emerging to change the face of the showbiz sector. Not only effecting change to have us entertained anew, but foster development of communities. Of particular interest are projects being launched to develop young people with a “serious” passion for the arts.

I have been inspired by artistes and practitioners alike that come from Makokoba. Having earned their living through art, they have managed to plough back to the community. Giving extends to spending time and sharing ideas. There are some among us when met with prominence; they look down on those yet to find their way.

Accomplished artistes executives have turned their backs on the communities that raised them. I would not want to name and shame, lest they turn their backs for good. Neither is there an intention to be philosophical.

The premise is on bringing communities together to change the fortunes of the showbiz industry. Reading through a whole load of projects around the city, I was fascinated by those brewed elokitshini. The most visible and progressive movements have been seen with Iyasa, Siyaya, Umkhathi, Black Umfolosi, Umdumo Wesizwe (and other imbube troupes), Amakhosi and ghetto music studios.

What is it with people that live ekasi? They are the creatives and from the high density suburban there are a lot of stories. The area constitutes the bulk of consumers of popular art. It makes sense to have as many art projects that empower these communities.

Of all the big projects that I have come across, my attention was drawn to the one family called “The Makokoba Project”. For reasons that might entice you too, the oldest township in the City of Kings is up for a retouch on the arts scene.

I have not met the brains behind this initiative. I have read and researched what they plan to do. Word on the street is that there is an upcoming series of workshops. The power of technology is at the fore of this project as I see it.

Just by using the cyberspace wisely, a reawakening of talents is awaiting elokitshini. Do not at any point underestimate the value of technology in empowering communities. In as much as artistes will spend hours on the computer, they must click the button wisely too.

Fans are all over the cyberspace. The only way to tap them will be to stay in touch on the same platforms.

In a preamble to the arts venture, Makokoba Project proudly says: “We are helping the community in Makokoba develop a sustainable infrastructure, by supporting the delivery of a full creative programme of activities, including music production, gardening and cookery, sports and literacy and by installing equipment such as compost toilets to improve hygiene and save water, and utilising solar energy and wind power to reduce electricity costs.

“We will be taking a bunch of UK bands, chefs and sports practitioners over in September to work with the local community, delivering workshops and sharing skills and experience. The musicians will also make an album and perform at an international festival with the local musicians.”

It is not disputable that in a community development setting, creating ideas together can help to develop connections and add to the building of a stronger community. For instance, community members can be empowered, both individually and collectively, through musical performance.

So, if you are one that still sleeps when others are sorting things out, get up and do something. We hope the Makokoba project will enlighten many downtrodden creatives in Bulawayo.