All set for Uhuru gala

Source: The Herald – Breaking news.

Trust Khosa

Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

ALL is set for tonight’s 45th Uhuru Musical Gala at Nembudziya Government High School in Gokwe, featuring a galaxy of stars.

Scheduled to run from 6pm to 6am, the gala is themed; “Zim @ 45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030”, aligning perfectly with the country’s development agenda.

Music lovers can expect top-drawer performances and a vibrant atmosphere that unites people from all walks of life in a shared celebration of Zimbabwean music and unity.

The line-up includes Simon Mutambi, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Clement Magwaza, Argatha Murudzwa, Shantel Sithole, Jah Signal, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Sandra Ndebele and Peter Moyo, among others.

What has raised the appeal of this gala is that it will be the first time for some of the musicians to perform in Gokwe. The expectations and excitement that come with this event can greatly enhance its appeal, especially for gospel diva Murudzwa, who has never visited Gokwe in her entire life.

“It will be my first time in Gokwe, I am excited and anxious at the same time,” she confessed in an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.

“My music is well-known there, but they didn’t know the person behind the music. I promise to give my best since it will be my first time in Gokwe on a national assignment.”

Fellow diva Sandra “Sandy” Ndebele was equally excited.

“I last performed in Gokwe a decade ago, and you can imagine the feeling I have. It’s always nice to see people in rural areas being exposed to such events, where a state-of-the-art sound system and lights are mounted. I can’t wait to take to the stage as we celebrate Uhuru together,” she remarked.

There are, however, some top sungura artistes who are relishing such crowds, especially Mutambi, who proudly stated that this event attracts his typical audience.

“I can’t wait to perform in Gokwe because the people attending the gala are my clientele and typical crowd. I have been touring many rural communities and the demand for my music is overwhelming. Of course, many artistes want to make an impression in big cities, but some of us thrive in rural areas,” he emphasised.

While Mutambi last visited Gokwe North 10 years ago, he noted that he has always wished to perform there.

“I have been to every corner of Zimbabwe, but I faced challenges reaching out to my fans in Gokwe North.”

He stressed that his group is ready to go. “As a team, we are known for giving our all wherever we perform because we simply love music and our job. We have performed at previous national events, but the Gokwe affair is a bit special.

“As you might be aware, Gokwe is often taunted on social media; however, for those of us who thrive in these communities, we respect the rural folks,” he stated.

With most people in rural areas in love with sungura, they are certainly guaranteed a night of fun. Ngwazi, Magwaza, Mutambi, Mudimba and Moyo, who leads Utakataka Express, will ensure that sungura lovers have a real treat.

This quintet has experience performing for large crowds, promising a night of entertainment for those who have embraced this new breed of stars. With all the fame they command, fans will be treated to a night of a lifetime.

Energetic performer Chief Hwenje, known for hits like “Mai Welly,” “Dhege,” and “Chigaba Chehuchi,” will perform in his home province.

Adding to the excitement is the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, which is expected to bring cheer to the event. Traditionalists should look forward to Andy Muridzo and Sasha Amadhuve, who have popularised the mbira instrument. Zimdancehall lovers’ dreams of an enjoyable night rest on Jah Signal, who is no stranger to Gokwe.

The queen of praise and worship, Murudzwa, will bless the night with her spiritually uplifting songs.

Suluman, undoubtedly the big act of the night, is expected to showcase his true colours as a living legend.

Following in the footsteps of his father, Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, Suluman has nothing to prove and has gained significant experience performing at national events of this magnitude.

The decentralisation of national events to rural communities has been a blessing for entertainment-starved areas.

Rural communities like Buhera, Bikita, and Mt. Darwin have been privileged to host national events, thanks to the Second Republic’s initiative of leaving no one behind.

This time, it is Gokwe North’s turn to host an event of this calibre, making history. Ultimately, the 45th Uhuru celebrations are not just an event; they represent the unity, strength, and resilience of the Zimbabwean people.