Online Reporter
Trust Khosa,
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
NATIONAL hero Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi may have died six years ago, but his legacy continues to touch the hearts of millions.
Tuku was known for celebrating his birthdays in style.
He would have been turning 73 on September 22 and his birthday will be celebrated posthumously.
This year, fans will be spoilt for choice with a line-up of regional and local events honouring the iconic artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Tuku’s remarkable success is hard to ignore.
Friends and fans will once again gather at Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton this weekend for the 2025 Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of Arts (OMIFA).
This year’s two-day event, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, has a star-studded line-up headlined by South African Afropop outfit Bongo Maffin and superstar Jah Prayzah.
Feli Nandi, is also one of the major drawcards at the event.
Tamy Moyo, Saintfloew, Agga Nyabinde, Tatenda Mhangami, Mokoomba, Gary Tight, Black Spirits, Ve Mhofu, Terry Mbofana, Munya Nyamarebvu, Hwamanda, and Norman Masamba are also part of the bill.
Show coordinator Marcus Gora, who also doubles as the Mokoomba Band manager, said everything was under control.
“The stage has been set for the 2025 OMIFA and we are ready for the event. Everything is on course, and we are prepared for the big day.
“It’s our second edition and we are ready to rumble.
“Most groups can’t wait for the 2025 edition, and we have done all the groundwork necessary.”
Tuku’s daughter, Selmor Mtukudzi, has already set the tone for this month.
She recently told Zimpapers she was in the right spirit to honour her late father.
Last weekend, she performed at Hard Rock Café in Johannesburg, South Africa, as a precursor to the big day.
This weekend, she will hold the Tuku Trail Half Marathon set for Wingate Boat Club on the shores of Lake Chivero.
She will also headline the “Doctor Oliver Mtukudzi Tribute Show” scheduled for September 26 at Alliance Francaise in Lusaka, Zambia.
“I have wanted to do this for a long time and I’m happy that it’s finally going to happen.
“I’m excited to celebrate his legacy through music and other events. In Zambia and South Africa, I’m promising my fans an unforgettable experience celebrating Tuku’s music and legacy.
“I’m looking forward to connecting with my fans and paying tribute to my father’s impact on the music world.
“I last performed in Zambia in 2020 and in South Africa in 2022. The response is always amazing.
“The audience there really loves Zimbabwean music and has so much respect for us,” Selmor said.
