[06:49, 10/10/2022] Proud Nyakunu: Thanks Mr. Mhike
[10:40, 10/10/2022] Emmanuel Mhike: Thank you for a great Tanchara BCP presentation @Zobazie Clement Ghana can we continue here. Those who attended can you send in your questions here
[10:40, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: The network was really bad
[10:41, 10/10/2022] Proud Nyakunu: Thanks for sharing, network yativharira kunze
[10:42, 10/10/2022] +263 77 474 2708: Thanks for sharing
[10:42, 10/10/2022] Emmanuel Mhike: Thank you so much for sharing the presentation.
[10:43, 10/10/2022] Tanya Dutt, India: Tanya from India here, 🙏🏽 was wonderful to attend my first BCP Network meeting, thank you for the insights
[10:43, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: 🙏
[10:44, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: The presentation actually narrowed on the community visioning stage
[10:45, 10/10/2022] Tanya Dutt, India: Okay thank you @Zobazie Clement Ghana, so does that mean it’s the initial part of envisioning the direction for that community’s BCP?
[10:45, 10/10/2022] Matumba: My name is Tsitsi Matumba from Mazvihwa Women’s Forum. Thank you for the great presentation Sir Clement. Tanchara inspired us a lot. My question is what the role of Arts on community visioning was
[10:46, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: The first stage had to do with identifying the problem, and then you determine the community capacity
[10:49, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: We the youth group used expressive are.
We visited mining communities and used their scenarios to formulate drama, story, etc. Then every community gathering we display the drama to sensitize them of the effects of mining
[10:53, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: For instance, we went to Konzokala, a mining community and what we saw were terrible
1. The old persons were looking miserable with chronic ailments
2. Girls as young as 13 years had already delivered
3. School dropout was a fun among them
4. They have distilled the water before they can drink, and many
[10:54, 10/10/2022] Deirdre Prins-Solani: How have the drama, stories been received by communities? By- miners?
[10:57, 10/10/2022] +263 77 956 2000: Hello hello l m Rumbidzai Mangwana a Community monitor from Mazvihwa working with Zimbabwe Environmental Law association. I enjoyed and learnt a lot from Tanchara’s BCP journey. My question is on what was the role of Tanchara Women on this stage of your BCP? What is their status in your Community..?
[11:05, 10/10/2022] Emmanuel Mhike: This is powerful use of expressive Art. Just like what Deirdre asked I would love to know how the community received your drama/role plays? The Miners were there not hostile to your role plays that mostly enlighten and empower community people?
[11:15, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: There were few individuals who were initially interested in joining the galamseyers, but after the series of drama, people got to know that farming is more sustainable with no hazards.
In all the communities we visited, the indigenes were poor, which indicated that land owners were not benefiting from the mining
[11:16, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: In our case, the illegal miners were not from our community. We dramas were geared to discourage people from joining or supporting the act
[11:18, 10/10/2022] Deirdre Prins-Solani: Thank you for sharing your process. Have the dramas been documented?
[11:19, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: The women helped in projecting the voice of the community. Most said clay was there source of income, mining could destroy their livelihood.
Some women also form part of the vigilante group
[11:23, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: We have some short videos, and few write up
We used to move to other districts to perform the dramas.
[11:27, 10/10/2022] Emmanuel Mhike: Great any links to these materials or can you share here?
[11:28, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: Ok
[11:40, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: I will try to get them and share with you
[11:42, 10/10/2022] Emmanuel Mhike: Thank you Sir Clement.
[16:26, 10/10/2022] Bernard Guri: Hi Clement and Emmanuel, I feel so proud of you. Taking the mantle from the elders! Following from the Q&A that ensued it shows the learning and enthusiasm that the presentation generated. I encourage you to deal with the other aspects of the BCP process in the future. Well done!
[16:41, 10/10/2022] Emmanuel Mhike: Thank you Uncle Bern. Our community learnt a lot from Clement and Tanchara’s BCP journey. More engagements
coming. Watch this space…
[16:45, 10/10/2022] Chihora: Thank you Uncle Bern!
[19:00, 10/10/2022] David Fletcherr: Congrats to all sounds like a wonderful dialogue. Sorry I missed it. Keep up the good work!
[19:02, 10/10/2022] Zobazie Clement Ghana: 🙏🏿
[20:57, 10/10/2022] Munyori Nyangoniii: Thanks guys for sharing network was bad here
Greetings family. Allow me to introduce our trainer today, Uswege Mwakapango.
19:00
Uswege Mwakapango (Tanzania) is a transformative and Development Practitioner who integrates different forms of Art in his trainings. Uswege believes Art is the greatest influencer of collective visioning at Community, National and International levels. Uswege founded RENEW an internationally registered and recognized organization that uses Art in inspiring self-discovery, problem identification and innovative solutions. He is also founder of Uluimbiwa Kusudi an inclusive learning experience that focuses on giving marginalized communities and creatives self-esteem as well as amplifying their voices.
19:02
Take note this will be a very interactive session where you will be allowed to seek some clarification and contributions after the presentation.
19:04
This training is very important in ensuring our Artists get the gist of how to use expressive Arts in ensuring Community self-governance as well as in protection of culture and heritage.
19:05
There is a great crisis of territorial invasions, Culture decay and industrialization of food systems facing our communities today. Creatives are really needed to lead the way in providing solutions, inspiring collective visioning through various forms Arts.
19:08
Let me define what is a Bio-Cultural Protocol ( BCP) before I hand over the floor to Uswege:
19:10
Bio-cultural protocols articulate stewardship of community resources, affirming responsibilities and asserting community rights. The put external actors on notice concerning engaging resource owners and use of the resources. BCPs ensure total protection of territories and resources. They are developed, discussed and implemented by the community people. Binding by laws are put in place to ensure Community consultation as well as protection of community’s Culture and heritage
19:11
Before I hand over the stick to our Trainer can I see those who are following, show by sending your favorite emoji here:
19:12
Almon
✋
19:14
MR Sunguro
⚖️
19:17
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Greetings family. Allow me to introduce our trainer today, Uswege Mwakapango.
Thank you so much for the introduction Emmanuel. I am looking forward to co-learn and create with every one of you
19:19
Looking forward for more hand emoji😀
19:19
Hungweee
You
Before I hand over the stick to our Trainer can I see those who are following, show by sending your favorite emoji here:
🙈
19:20
Kudzi Mvumaaa
✋
19:20
7 Artists are using my phone here Uswege. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
19:26
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
7 Artists are using my phone here Uswege. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
That is great
19:26
Let me leave the floor for our trainer. I know many will catch up. Over to you Uswege @Mwakapango Tanzania
19:27
Chihora
✋🏿
19:31
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Let me leave the floor for our trainer. I know many will catch up. Over to you Uswege @Mwakapango Tanzania
19:31
👍🏿
Tache Elema Duba
👍🏼
👍🏼
👍🏼
19:35
Mwakapango Tanzania
I felt like the audio it happened to sound too quick not because I spoke too quick but it might be a technical challenge.
19:36
How does the people with you think @Emmanuel Mhike
Before you watch the video. May I know who is here with us already?
19:44
I would love to give some questions to different people
19:45
Those who will join letter are going to learn from the given groups around at the moment
19:45
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Thank you so much for adding me to this wonderful forum.
19:46
Mwakapango Tanzania
So far, we have
1.Moyo Wembira
2.Cossy
3.Emmanuel
4.Marsabit
5.Mufaro
6.Regges
7.Tache
8. SIRHOVE
19:48
Mwakapango Tanzania
Woow this is powerful! I’m touched. Can you send the video here I know some don’t have internet Data to see this
19:49
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Am Galgallo Roba Guyo founder and director of Marsabit Botanical Garden which is the first and one of its kind in northern Kenya among pastoralist communities.
We are working on environmental conservation, climate change education and mitigation, protection of endangered plants species, documentation of traditional knowledge of herbal medicine and genetic resources, ethno-botanical research and work with IPLCs on development of Biocultural protocol.
19:49
Mwakapango Tanzania
Moyo, Cossy and Emmanuel You are going to tell us what did you see in the video.
Marsabit, Mufaro and Regges you are going to tell us what did you here?
19:50
Tache and SIRHOVE please tell us how did the video made you feel?
19:51
Let us convene here in 10 minutes
19:52
for a panel Discussion
19:52
Jaya Edward
✋network is slow on my side but following up
19:52
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Am Galgallo Roba Guyo founder and director of Marsabit Botanical Garden which is the first and one of its kind in northern Kenya among pastoralist communities.
We are working on environmental conservation, climate change education and mitigation, protection of endangered plants species, documentation of traditional knowledge of herbal medicine and genetic resources, ethno-botanical research and work with IPLCs on development of Biocultural protocol.
We are honoured to have you here Mr Galgallo! Today Mr Mwakapango from Tanzania is taking us through a training on how to use expressive Arts in catalyzing BCPs and Community led development in general.
19:53
Mwakapango Tanzania
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Am Galgallo Roba Guyo founder and director of Marsabit Botanical Garden which is the first and one of its kind in northern Kenya among pastoralist communities.
We are working on environmental conservation, climate change education and mitigation, protection of endangered plants species, documentation of traditional knowledge of herbal medicine and genetic resources, ethno-botanical research and work with IPLCs on development of Biocultural protocol.
Thank you Marsabit. We are so happy to have you here with us
19:53
👍
Chihora
✋🏿
19:53
Mwakapango Tanzania
Jaya Edward
✋network is slow on my side but following up
Thank you for the head up
19:53
Chihora
✋🏿
I’m sure Mr Chihora have seen the Video too @Mwakapango Tanzania
19:54
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
I’m sure Mr Chihora have seen the Video too @Mwakapango Tanzania
Wonderful
19:55
Tache Elema Duba
Which video kindly
19:56
Mwakapango Tanzania
Tache Elema Duba
Which video kindly
19:56
Mwakapango Tanzania
My name is Loveness Mhandu a member of Kumusha Kwedu Arts Club in Mazvihwa. The video shows us how one is proud of his Community Bagamoyo, it’s heritage and economic way of life ( fishing in the ocean)
19:56
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
My name is Loveness Mhandu a member of Kumusha Kwedu Arts Club in Mazvihwa. The video shows us how one is proud of his Community Bagamoyo, it’s heritage and economic way of life ( fishing in the ocean)
Thank you Loveness for sharing what you heard. What about other people
19:58
Shockson
Network very unstable can’t view some massages.
19:58
Mwakapango Tanzania
Shockson
Network very unstable can’t view some massages.
Thank you for the feedback. Hope your reception improves soon
19:59
Mwakapango Tanzania
In this video I see the power of music as an art form. Seeing this video I remember these words “Art is but a vision of reality” WB Yeats.
20:00
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
In this video I see the power of music as an art form. Seeing this video I remember these words “Art is but a vision of reality” WB Yeats.
Thank you. Emmanuel is taking us to another level of our dialogue which we are going to talk more about this. Let’s keep this response in our minds
20:02
Qn: What did you see
What did you hear
How did it make you feel
Let us say more about these areas
20:03
Tache Elema Duba
The bagamoyo community have a lot of attachments with the sea ,the song is praising the Bagamoyo area ,its values,its business Economic values and generally the attach a lot of worth to the bagamoyo both as a place and also the sea
20:06
Hungweee
Mwakapango Tanzania
Qn: What did you see
What did you hear
How did it make you feel
Let us say more about these areas
I’m sorry my network is do bad I’ve not been able to watch the video.
20:06
Mwakapango Tanzania
Tache Elema Duba
The bagamoyo community have a lot of attachments with the sea ,the song is praising the Bagamoyo area ,its values,its business Economic values and generally the attach a lot of worth to the bagamoyo both as a place and also the sea
Thank you so much Tache
20:06
Mwakapango Tanzania
Hungweee
I’m sorry my network is do bad I’ve not been able to watch the video.
Thank you for the feedback. Hope it get better soon
20:07
Tache Elema Duba
There was a lot of communication through the art of song there ,both bad and good times explained ,the slave trades ,the robust business community who love the attachment they have with the place,the feel sea is them and they are sea ,they laugh when the sea laughs and cry when it cry .
So the indegenious people have a lot of attachments with there environment ,they value it so much
20:09
Hi it’s Ishmael Mukaro from Kumusha Kwedu Arts Club. I see Fish, ocean, ancient ruins, I hear acoustic sound. I feel attached to the Bogamoyo Community.
20:09
Almon
Network problems. I hope I will be able to follow and understand
20:09
Mwakapango Tanzania
Tache Elema Duba
There was a lot of communication through the art of song there ,both bad and good times explained ,the slave trades ,the robust business community who love the attachment they have with the place,the feel sea is them and they are sea ,they laugh when the sea laughs and cry when it cry .
So the indegenious people have a lot of attachments with there environment ,they value it so much
🙏
🙏
20:11
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Hi it’s Ishmael Mukaro from Kumusha Kwedu Arts Club. I see Fish, ocean, ancient ruins, I hear acoustic sound. I feel attached to the Bogamoyo Community.
Thank you Ishmael. Ishmael is taking us to upcoming dialogue. Let’s note this area
20:12
Mwakapango Tanzania
Almon
Network problems. I hope I will be able to follow and understand
🙏
🙏
20:12
@Emmanuel Mhike I took your suggestion. I am uploading the video here very soon
20:17
Mwakapango Tanzania
@Emmanuel Mhike I took your suggestion. I am uploading the video here very soon
Thank you trainer👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿
20:19
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Thank you trainer👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿
🙏
🙏
20:22
For the sake of time. I suggest we to another level of our dialogue and we can always send your response to previous questions whenever you are ready. Emmanuel said “…..Power of music as an art form.” Please show me a thumb up you think music is one among many form of expressive arts?
20:24
👍🏿
2
Like Emmanuel and Keith reacted. Music is one of the forms of expressive arts. other forms of expressive arts includes;
Poem
Dance/Movement
Painting
Fiction Stories
Journal
Sculpting
Drama
20:34
👍🏿
❤️
3
Almon
Network problems. I hope I will be able to follow and understand
Yaa network is a challenge in Zimbabwe currently. Go on trainer people will catch up and contribute
20:34
👍
Mwakapango Tanzania
In traditional model of planning and implementation of bio-cultural protocol and community development, people have been using community development officers in defining, designing and implementing bio-cultural protocol and use arts as a tool to mobilise people to come, watch and learn from these arts. But artists like Vitali Maembe in the videos uses arts as a tool to help enlighten people of the value of cultural, cultural restoration and source of knowledge to the knew knowldege
20:40
❤️
Mwakapango Tanzania
In traditional model of planning and implementation of bio-cultural protocol and community development, people have been using community development officers in defining, designing and implementing bio-cultural protocol and use arts as a tool to mobilise people to come, watch and learn from these arts. But artists like Vitali Maembe in the videos uses arts as a tool to help enlighten people of the value of cultural, cultural restoration and source of knowledge to the knew knowldege
Following and learning
20:41
Kith Zenda
Mwakapango Tanzania
Like Emmanuel and Keith reacted. Music is one of the forms of expressive arts. other forms of expressive arts includes;
Poem
Dance/Movement
Painting
Fiction Stories
Journal
Sculpting
Drama
Following Trainer.
20:42
+263 71 472 4460
Mwakapango Tanzania
In traditional model of planning and implementation of bio-cultural protocol and community development, people have been using community development officers in defining, designing and implementing bio-cultural protocol and use arts as a tool to mobilise people to come, watch and learn from these arts. But artists like Vitali Maembe in the videos uses arts as a tool to help enlighten people of the value of cultural, cultural restoration and source of knowledge to the knew knowldege
Following 👏🏻
20:42
Mwakapango Tanzania
Reflecting on the music and other forms of arts, what role do you think expressive arts can play in facilitating Bio-cultural conversation? and please make sure to mention the forms of expressive arts you are referring to
20:43
Think of your community as you respond to the question above
20:44
Marsabit Guyo Roba
You
We are honoured to have you here Mr Galgallo! Today Mr Mwakapango from Tanzania is taking us through a training on how to use expressive Arts in catalyzing BCPs and Community led development in general.
Thanks, interesting.
20:45
Mwakapango Tanzania
Reflecting on the music and other forms of arts, what role do you think expressive arts can play in facilitating Bio-cultural conversation? and please make sure to mention the forms of expressive arts you are referring to
Hi it’s Loveness again. I think we can use Arts as a community resource mapping tool like what we saw in the video. The artist has shown what are the key Cultural, social and economic resources in Bogamoyo Community
20:47
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Hi it’s Loveness again. I think we can use Arts as a community resource mapping tool like what we saw in the video. The artist has shown what are the key Cultural, social and economic resources in Bogamoyo Community
Thank you so much Loveness. Since one of the role of BCP is demonstrating community’s assets and available agency, music be one of the powerful tool in opening people’s eyes to which resources are available
20:53
In Tanzania, artists like Makeke (I am going to share the link soon) uses sculptures and traditional design to enlighten people and awaken the spirit to fight against harmful cultural practices to women and other forms of oppression
20:55
Mrisho Mpoto; uses his music as a form of expressive arts to restore community language and other forms of expressive arts like traditional dances that are under attack from the effects of grobalization
20:57
83 kB
Here our very own Artist, Keith Zenda @263776330869 uses Art to reflect our cultural life, our way of life, our roots…
Here our very own Artist, Keith Zenda @Kith Zenda uses Art to reflect our cultural life, our way of life, our roots…
20:58
❤️
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Here our very own Artist, Keith Zenda @Kith Zenda uses Art to reflect our cultural life, our way of life, our roots…
Thank you Emmanuel.
20:59
Mwakapango Tanzania
In Tanzania, artists like Makeke (I am going to share the link soon) uses sculptures and traditional design to enlighten people and awaken the spirit to fight against harmful cultural practices to women and other forms of oppression
This is the link to the article about the artist so it should not be hard to access since it is not a video
21:03
Mwakapango Tanzania
Mrisho Mpoto; uses his music as a form of expressive arts to restore community language and other forms of expressive arts like traditional dances that are under attack from the effects of grobalization
Great. Does Mpoto have a band or a traditional music ensemble? How best can our traditional dance ensembles use music and dance in catalyzing community resource protection and Cultural pride?
21:03
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Mwakapango Tanzania
This is amazing work,it tells the rich history of Bagamoyo town.The video shows tangible cultural heritage of Bagamoyo.It also state intangible cultural heritage of the place.
21:04
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Great. Does Mpoto have a band or a traditional music ensemble? How best can our traditional dance ensembles use music and dance in catalyzing community resource protection and Cultural pride?
Yes he does. His group involves are combinations of arts i.e traditional dancer to teach new generation about their pasts, poet who shows new generation about our past music but he is always on a barefoot to remind new generation about where we came from
21:07
Marsabit Guyo Roba
This is amazing work,it tells the rich history of Bagamoyo town.The video shows tangible cultural heritage of Bagamoyo.It also state intangible cultural heritage of the place.
Mr Guyo can you clarify for the benefit of my group and others what is Bogamoyo’s tangible Cultural and intangible heritage shown in the video
21:08
Solo
We watched the video thanks for this.
21:08
Mwakapango Tanzania
148 kB
As traditional cloth designer, painter and sculpture. Makeke uses other artists who uses other form of expressive arts like music and poem to tell people what his imaginary art try to communicate
As traditional cloth designer, painter and sculpture. Makeke uses other artists who uses other form of expressive arts like music and poem to tell people what his imaginary art try to communicate
21:10
❤️
Thank you so much for your active participation. I see we are out of time. I will be sharing more resources in later. Can you share with me what was your number one take away from this dialogue that you are going to apply in your community? Was this dialogue meaningful? what more question would you love to be addressed in upcoming conversation?
21:15
Mwakapango Tanzania
Thank you so much for your active participation. I see we are out of time. I will be sharing more resources in later. Can you share with me what was your number one take away from this dialogue that you are going to apply in your community? Was this dialogue meaningful? what more question would you love to be addressed in upcoming conversation?
Thank you so much Trainer for my group of artists with me here they can’t get enough of the Bogamoyo video. Kindly share it here for everyone to see.
21:18
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Thank you so much Trainer for my group of artists with me here they can’t get enough of the Bogamoyo video. Kindly share it here for everyone to see.
Will do and give it in depth explanation
21:19
MR Sunguro
Mwakapango Tanzania
Thank you so much for your active participation. I see we are out of time. I will be sharing more resources in later. Can you share with me what was your number one take away from this dialogue that you are going to apply in your community? Was this dialogue meaningful? what more question would you love to be addressed in upcoming conversation?
Thank you sir
21:19
Next time I would love conversation on documentation of artforms, embracing technology, social media and making sense to anyone anyway. Translation is important. Subtitles are important
21:20
Mai Sigauke
🙌
21:20
Kith Zenda
Mwakapango Tanzania
As traditional cloth designer, painter and sculpture. Makeke uses other artists who uses other form of expressive arts like music and poem to tell people what his imaginary art try to communicate
Thank you Trainer 😃
21:22
Family let’s digest and continue to deliberate when we get network. Thank you Mr Mwakapango. Thanks everyone. Good morning, Good afternoon, Good evening and Good night to those in Southern Africa
21:22
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Next time I would love conversation on documentation of artforms, embracing technology, social media and making sense to anyone anyway. Translation is important. Subtitles are important
Well noted. What would other practitioners love to see?
21:26
Mwakapango Tanzania
Mai Sigauke
🙌
🙏
🙏
21:27
Mwakapango Tanzania
Kith Zenda
Thank you Trainer 😃
🙏
🙏
21:27
David Fletcherr
Wow! Just had a quick look at some of the links and the discussions. Well done everyone! Looks like it was a fantastic session. Congrats all!
21:31
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Tangible cultural heritage described in the video include;Kaole ancient town, wells, museum Bagamoyo college of art, German and mwanamakuka grave yard, Arab fort, German fort, Ancient market,magomeni-main gate/slaves entry point,siwatu-Blue well,Susi and chuma and presence of indigenous people like Wadhee.
21:32
David Fletcherr
Wow! Just had a quick look at some of the links and the discussions. Well done everyone! Looks like it was a fantastic session. Congrats all!
Thanks Elder David! A great presentation from Uswege! Fantastic video and article examples shared here
22:25
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Tangible cultural heritage described in the video include;Kaole ancient town, wells, museum Bagamoyo college of art, German and mwanamakuka grave yard, Arab fort, German fort, Ancient market,magomeni-main gate/slaves entry point,siwatu-Blue well,Susi and chuma and presence of indigenous people like Wadhee.
Perfect. You said them all. Thanks Sir Guyo
22:26
Shockson
Thank you trainer, thank you Mr Mhike. We learn a lot 🙏🏼
22:28
Shockson
Thank you trainer, thank you Mr Mhike. We learn a lot 🙏🏼
Your support is highly appreciated our Provincial Arts and Culture Officer. Great to have the Ministry supporting us all the way. Expect more…
22:36
Yattani Tura Kenya
Mwakapango Tanzania
Thank you mr Uswege!
Music as an expressove art is persuasive, calling on the world to rethink our environment.
WHAT WE SEE:
Visualization of beautiful assets of our mother earth.
WHAT WE HEAR:
caring voice of custodian.
WHAT WE FEEL:
Strong attachment to cultural heritage.
22:44
Yattani Tura Kenya
You
Family let’s digest and continue to deliberate when we get network. Thank you Mr Mwakapango. Thanks everyone. Good morning, Good afternoon, Good evening and Good night to those in Southern Africa
Thank you mr Emanuel as well. We’ve learnt alot.
22:47
Mwakapango Tanzania
David Fletcherr
Wow! Just had a quick look at some of the links and the discussions. Well done everyone! Looks like it was a fantastic session. Congrats all!
Deeply appreciated. Tried to integrate learning processes from your training on Facilitating and Training Approaches for Social Change.
22:54
👍
Yattani Tura Kenya
Thank you mr Uswege!
Music as an expressove art is persuasive, calling on the world to rethink our environment.
WHAT WE SEE:
Visualization of beautiful assets of our mother earth.
WHAT WE HEAR:
caring voice of custodian.
WHAT WE FEEL:
Strong attachment to cultural heritage.
This is a powerful response Yattani. 👌
22:57
Mwakapango Tanzania
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Tangible cultural heritage described in the video include;Kaole ancient town, wells, museum Bagamoyo college of art, German and mwanamakuka grave yard, Arab fort, German fort, Ancient market,magomeni-main gate/slaves entry point,siwatu-Blue well,Susi and chuma and presence of indigenous people like Wadhee.
Great Observation Marsabit. Such a powerful way music as a form of expressive art can be used to highlight available assets in the community and value for cultural heritage which in turn influence productivity, tourism, connection to nature and the spirit together with the sense of pride
23:01
❤️
Mwakapango Tanzania
Shockson
Thank you trainer, thank you Mr Mhike. We learn a lot 🙏🏼
Thank you for sharing your insights during our dialogue
23:03
Bantuman I
You
Kindly welcome my Mentors, my Advisors, My Referees. The people who introduced me to Bio-Cultural Protocols. Elder Bernard Guri ( COMPAS Africa) Elder Martin ( I.C.E Kenya), Allyc ( Muonde Trust, Zimbabwe and David Fletcher ( Africa Learning Institute). Our trainer for the training program tmr Uswege Mwakapango is also a product of these people.
👏🏾
👏🏾
👏🏾
23:04
Trainer @Mwakapango Tanzania someone from my Arts group here was asking about how to use Role Plays as a form of expressive Arts in Community resources protection and Cultural heritage promotion?
23:05
Mwakapango Tanzania
Yattani Tura Kenya
Thank you mr Uswege!
Music as an expressove art is persuasive, calling on the world to rethink our environment.
WHAT WE SEE:
Visualization of beautiful assets of our mother earth.
WHAT WE HEAR:
caring voice of custodian.
WHAT WE FEEL:
Strong attachment to cultural heritage.
Great observation Yattani “Strong attachments to cultural heritage ” is a great hit. So much can be achieved if we integrate expressive arts in showcasing our cultural heritage to achieve cultural heritage protection, community’s connection with their sacred places and sense of pride
23:08
Bantuman I
You
Before I hand over the stick to our Trainer can I see those who are following, show by sending your favorite emoji here:
🤛🏾
23:08
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Trainer @Mwakapango Tanzania someone from my Arts group here was asking about how to use Role Plays as a form of expressive Arts in Community resources protection and Cultural heritage promotion?
Thank you for sharing this with me. I am welcoming every questions at the moment and I will give my thoughts when more people got the time to follow through our dialogue and share their questions too
23:16
Marsabit Guyo Roba
You
Perfect. You said them all. Thanks Sir Guyo
Welcome sir
23:39
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Mwakapango Tanzania
Great Observation Marsabit. Such a powerful way music as a form of expressive art can be used to highlight available assets in the community and value for cultural heritage which in turn influence productivity, tourism, connection to nature and the spirit together with the sense of pride
👍
23:41
9/13/2022
Miss Patience
Good morning. Unfortunately I wasnt available yesterday. I am however going through the training now.
09:36
Miss Patience
Good morning. Unfortunately I wasnt available yesterday. I am however going through the training now.
Please go through and send here your opinions
09:40
👍
Mwakapango Tanzania
Miss Patience
Good morning. Unfortunately I wasnt available yesterday. I am however going through the training now.
Perfect. Looking forward to learn from your thoughts
09:56
Chihora
This message was deleted
09:57
Miss Patience
Mwakapango Tanzania
Perfect. Looking forward to learn from your thoughts
Will watch the video and respond
10:50
Mwakapango Tanzania
Miss Patience
Will watch the video and respond
🙏
10:51
Miss Patience
16:22
Mwakapango Tanzania
Don’t forget to download and send us the video here @Mwakapango Tanzania
16:22
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Don’t forget to download and send us the video here @Mwakapango Tanzania
I found out you can send a video on WhatsApp that is no longer than 2:7minutes time while the full video is 8minutes long. I suggest people should find a place with good internet to watch the video, otherwise I welcome suggestions from the team. Asante
19:52
👍
❤️
2
9/16/2022
Mwakapango Tanzania
This message was deleted
07:56
Bernard Guri
Forwarded
Rescuing Tanchara Community Lands from Gold Mining Through Biocultural Community Protocols
Great Article! For me the Courts are part of the answer.
The real answer is to have in Cultural Protocols the gods, the Ancestoral Spirits to deal with such cases. After all it is about their abode.
The Community should have gone to court prepared to sacrifice to the doom and gloom to perpetrators and those aiding and abetting with them like the Lawyer and the Judge.
Then they would not need CIKOD to resolve this, will they?
Swearings and Curses work in a default manner even if you don’t believe in them.
THEY WILL HUNT YOU FOR LIFE!!!!!
14:05
Comments from Prof Millar. Any more suggestions for making the formal legal system work in Africa is welcome
Comments from Prof Millar. Any more suggestions for making the formal legal system work in Africa is welcome
Firstly, we should redefine the word formal, it shouldn’t mean anything western. I think we need home grown legal systems that take heed of community by laws enshrined in community protocols. Traditional authorities and police should work hand in glove
16:44
Tanya Dutt, India was added
Kindly welcome my friend and South to South Arts Fellow Tanya Dutt from India.
17:00
Tanya welcome to The Bio-Cultural Protocol Network group
17:02
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Bio-cultural protocol can prevent Biopiracy of our genetic resources through identification, mapping and documentation of our genetic resources and allow community to benefits from them through ABS policy that is Access and Benefits Sharing of Genetic Resources which is a new policy promoting Bio-trade and it’s in accordance with Nagayo Protocol.
16:41
Have a look at this Biopiracy case in Kenya
16:42
Marsabit Guyo Roba
How Kenya’s Lake Bogoria is feeding the global biotech industry
Firstly, we should redefine the word formal, it shouldn’t mean anything western. I think we need home grown legal systems that take heed of community by laws enshrined in community protocols. Traditional authorities and police should work hand in glove
This is the reason why most Asian countries are developing faster. They do everything in their own languages ( which no one understands it better than themselves) and everything they do is derived and controlled by their cultural laws .
16:56
Marsabit Guyo Roba
Bio-cultural protocol can prevent Biopiracy of our genetic resources through identification, mapping and documentation of our genetic resources and allow community to benefits from them through ABS policy that is Access and Benefits Sharing of Genetic Resources which is a new policy promoting Bio-trade and it’s in accordance with Nagayo Protocol.
Perfectly said
17:07
Miss Patience
You
Kindly welcome my friend and South to South Arts Fellow Tanya Dutt from India.
This is what we call true liberation. Bio-Cultural Protocol + Endogenous Development Practices as a means to bring power back to the people. I also loved application of community forums and videography in this movements. These tools are always powerful. Congratulations @Bernard Guri
18:07
Miss Patience
You
Firstly, we should redefine the word formal, it shouldn’t mean anything western. I think we need home grown legal systems that take heed of community by laws enshrined in community protocols. Traditional authorities and police should work hand in glove
It is interesting how community capital is lost from lack of information about the presence of and value for available resources
18:53
Miss Patience
Mwakapango Tanzania
It is interesting how community capital is lost from lack of information about the presence of and value for available resources
The most devastating is when authorities are unaware of safeguarding the natural resources in the instance of allowing say, mining companies to extract and keep the raw materials and other impurities thereby gaining more than agreed
19:22
Tanya Dutt, India
Thank you very much @Emmanuel Mhike and everyone else, it’s wonderful to be part of this group, since I too work in remote areas and communities, it’s wonderful to see BCP take roots in Africa. It will be lovely to learn from you all and synergise knowledge from South Asian practices and networks
19:29
Mwakapango Tanzania
Miss Patience
The most devastating is when authorities are unaware of safeguarding the natural resources in the instance of allowing say, mining companies to extract and keep the raw materials and other impurities thereby gaining more than agreed
✊
19:29
Tanya Dutt, India
Thank you very much @Emmanuel Mhike and everyone else, it’s wonderful to be part of this group, since I too work in remote areas and communities, it’s wonderful to see BCP take roots in Africa. It will be lovely to learn from you all and synergise knowledge from South Asian practices and networks
Feel at Home Tanya. We really need to learn a lot from your work in South Asia especially the Rural Networks of inclusivity
20:45
Tanya Dutt, India
Start – [Translocal] Solidarity Networks
[translocal] solidarity networks گفتگو දැනුම सम्मोहक استقامت सक्षम पार्ने ঐকতান māyā dynamo aegis A South Asian initiative to develop collective measures addressing concerns of civil society, cultural institutions, and socially committed […]
Bio-cultural protocol can prevent Biopiracy of our genetic resources through identification, mapping and documentation of our genetic resources and allow community to benefits from them through ABS policy that is Access and Benefits Sharing of Genetic Resources which is a new policy promoting Bio-trade and it’s in accordance with Nagayo Protocol.
This is good hey. I remember participating in drafting of the Bcp of Chiadzwa in Zimbabwe.
04:37
Mwakapango Tanzania
Thank you so much to everyone who participated in this training. I was highly moved by your spirit to contribute for the purpose to help all of us increase our understanding in the area of the role of expressive arts in BCP Conversation. Attached below, is an evaluation form to collect some feedback from the training. The feedback is also going to guide future presenter to do even better so please spare some minutes to give your response. You can type your responses on a WhatsApp message box and send your response directly to me @ +255 715 708086 for easy analysis and collective sharing.
05:26
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Photo
South to South Arts Fellowship.pdf
4 pages•PDF•35 kB
05:27
Mwakapango Tanzania
Mwakapango Tanzania
South to South Arts Fellowship.pdf • 4 pages
Lots of people have shared responses that are going to be highly useful to us including @Miss Patience and @Yattani Tura Kenya ….. I am looking forward to learn from your feedback.
Asante sana
05:33
Mwakapango Tanzania
South to South Arts Fellowship.pdf • 4 pages
Awesome. On it Trainer
05:55
Mwakapango Tanzania
You
Awesome. On it Trainer
🙏
🙏
06:35
Chihora
Thank you @Mwakapango Tanzania
06:39
Mwakapango Tanzania
Chihora
Thank you @Mwakapango Tanzania
Thank you so much Mr. Chihora. Your feedback are extremely valuable
06:44
Mwakapango Tanzania
Mwakapango Tanzania
South to South Arts Fellowship.pdf • 4 pages
I would love to thank everyone who is responding to this evaluation by going beyond responding my limited questions to giving me examples on how we can improve future training with examples. Thank you Mr.@Chihora
For BCP Consultancy, Networking etc Contact Emmanuel at:
You may have never had a chance to watch Thomas Makwasha, Max Ruza and company in their green and white stripped, Shabanie Mine Football team’s colours in the early 1990s. They surprised all and sundry by storming into the BP Soccer Cup Final at the giant National Sports Stadium and stalked the star-studded mighty Dembare. By so doing they lifted the much coveted trophy – against all odds. You may have disputes with colleagues in life just like anybody else but have never consulted a good ‘judge’. The great sounds of Zvishavane sounds, hits like Chitoto, Ndiri Muranda, Viva Madzimai and chengetedzai hupenyu! Have you ever heard of Davison Macheza, Trevor Madamombe, Kellaz and Joseph Mutero who gave us the great folktale of Chief Justice ‘Gava’ of the ‘Mutongi Gava maenzanise’ fame. Great sound and song creators from ‘Zvikomo Zvishava’ (Zvishavane).
‘Devera Ngwena Zhimozhi’ and its trademark lead guitar chords must make you want to find out more about Mashava and Zvishavane’s entertainment sector. Maybe Johna Moyo has the key to that one. In the 80s when one release after the other topped the then Zimbabwe’s Radio 2 charts, that formidable group also had the likes of Innocent Bitu and Jonisayi Machinya. ‘Nyakuzvida’, ‘Two cheap’, ‘Anoshaina’ and ‘Wangu P’ are some of their hit songs. The band is somewhere in Thohoyandou, South Africa today.
You may have never criss-crossed the Bunnockburn farm and managed to set your foot at Dadaya Mission where some of Zimbabwe’s fine tuned men and women passed through.
Forget about the world’s seven great wonders. Aside to Mosi oa Tunya which we have here in Zimbabwe, there are numerous places if wonder dotted around the famous ‘Teapot’ shaped country of Zimbabwe – which itself might be rightly termed the world’s eighthy wonder.
The great six or so kilometer long stretch of Boterekwa’s swift turns, as one winds his way from Shurugwi to Zvishavane, may be elusive to you but it stands as one of Zimbabwe’s great many wonders. And would one believe that there are over two hundred kilometres of underground mine shafts at Shurugwi. And the view is scenic and good for picnics. It is both refreshing and breathtaking. Why don’t you grab a camera and visit Shurugwi?
History make us the people we are today. And true to that adage, Emmanuel Mhike, The crown Prince of Mazvihwa seems to have read about the works done by his forebears in Zvishavane. It being that he hails from Mazvihwa, his work seems to be asking whether readers are paying heed to the book’s calls.
This young man has dug me out of my almost half a year – long writing sabbatical with an interesting piece of literary artwork. First, it was that sizzling short story preview of the book, ‘Tambo’s war’ by a Zvishavane product, Jabulani Charles Msipa, which jerked me off my seat with it’s well knitted flowing story. We await it’s full publication in due course.
Then this sizzler by Mhike, a true student of Chisiya Writers’ Club , a unique rural writing model founded by Professor Emmanuel Sigauke in Mazvihwa in 2015. He is the one who made Mhike realise his writing talent at 28 years old. Memory Chirere who facilitated poetry writing while the late David Mungoshi facilitated novel writing inspired Mhike to try poetry writing. You will see his writing style is largely inspired by that of Chirere in ‘Bhuku risina basa nekuti rakanyorwa masikati’. And how do these authors come up with these titles(A story for another day)? Ignatius Mabasa also has funny one, ‘Mapenzi’.
Mhike is now the Programs Manager at Chisiya Writers’ Club which boasts of having more than 500 creative but marginalized and upcoming writers. Mhike gives credit to Muonde Trust. He said he has been identified and nurtured by Muonde Trust, an organization that works to foment locally driven development in Mazvihwa and surrounding areas of South Central Zimbabwe. He is the Arts, Culture and Education Officer at Muonde Trust.
Mhike’s soon to come publication entitled, ‘Nzungu Dzembeu’ not only excites but will serve as a main meal for those eager to digest Zimbabwe’s rich Shona heritage. Edited by non other than Zimbawe’s award winning journalist, poet, storyteller, novelist and television films actor Tinashe Bob Muchuri, this 118 paged book, knocks on your doors the way ‘vanaMugaradzakasungwa’ (Police Officers) do. If you have a case to answer, it is a grab and go issue. They don’t wait for your ‘blah blah blah, hullabaloo’ talks. This is true of ‘Nzungu Dzembeu’. It is not going to wait for you to count your money in the pockets. Instead, it will just ‘fork’ out dollars (from your pocket) equivalent to It’s value on the market.
‘Nzungu Dzembeu’ is like a plate of roasted nuts, soya beans or ‘Mhandire'(roasted maize grains) that has been placed infront of a group of children watching Lextus ‘Dapi’ Mafumhe Mutasa who is telling a folktale. Dapi’s big eyes are wide opened and his big hands are simulating a lioness’ action as it is about to grab an innocent looking impala. At that juncture when the impala is struck on the back by the lion’s left foreleg, it falls. The ‘murderer’ hastens to thwart it’s breath. And the listeners will sieze to breathe and be aweried. After a gasp of air, heys and ahs, they will then turn to their ‘rwenga’ (A broken clay pot used as a pan to roast the grains), then start grabbing more nuts and chewing the stuff in their mouth. That goes with this type of a comical book. It won’t be a crime to grab one or more for your library and friends.
In this installment, I am not going to go deeper into the book lest I take the steam out if it. Just a stanza or two will be enough!
They say the first cut is the deepest one. And true to that, ‘Nzungu dzembeu’, the book’s title and the first poem’s title says it all:
‘…Idzi inzungu dzembeu mwachewe Usaravira kana imwe mwanawe-e Enda undodzvara mutseu Imwe chete ichabudisa gumi nefararira…’
Hear, hear, hear, o! The reader’s heart throbs. The mind is stretched. Once a police officer knocks at your door, you become highly inquisitive. ‘Have I skipped the law?’, could be one of those questions to quickly rove your mind. This is the same scenario in Mhike’s thoughts. It might be your first time to get wise counsel from an elder or it might be a second time where you are trying to make amends after a barrage of mistimings. You will grab the seeds or the all important message, act upon it and guard jealousy your ‘garden’, your ‘Tseu’ (A groundnuts field)- lest ‘makava’, the scavengers may pounce on your ‘stow’. He urges us to never confuse seeds with comestible grains.
Again, the message is loud and clear. Make hay while the sun shines. And Zimbabwe’s Sungura King Alick Macheso, ‘The Man Himself, although he may have some critics pointing that Mark Ngwazi surpassed him in their recently released albums, (That is a story for another day, in my next installment) made it clear in his song ‘1940’ off the album ‘Tererai’ (2005):
‘Panorima vamwe rimawo, Iwe rimawo tigokohwedzana nevamwe.’
Macheso impels the audience to seed so as to reap more tomorrow. But we tend to seed the opposite ways – our mouth. Just take a look again at that stanza by Mhike. Is it about ‘nuts’ only? You know where you are seeding your daily pickings right?
Rising Sungura prodigy, Mark Ngwazi, sang, ‘Mari yandakanwa hwahwa, ndikaidzorerwa ndinonwa hwahwa..’ One has been given back his seeds but that mentality of pushing something down the mouth seems to be relentlessly following us; blasting ‘Nzungu Dzembeu’.
The late great Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi sounded the gong way back in the late 1990s:
‘Murimi tora kapadza urime, Mvura nevhu zvoyanana..’
In this song entitled, ‘Murimi’ Tuku exhibited that once a farmer has a will to put his or her seed on the ground, The Almighty Supreme Being has a way. All one needs is to be positive in life and never to be hoodwinked into delving into dubious actions. One must not backpedal in thoughts or actions which are meant to further the much needed positive interests of building our beloved motherland – Zimbabwe.
Mhike goes on to give a wise counsel:
Chimwe kutofana newe zvese nemateya Dai chikasatodza kumenyera mumuromo..
Like father like son – many a times our offsprings tread in our shoes. If our teachings are widely spaced like an unevenly matched corn cob, what then shall we say? The child will just groove into those ill of the society. Only hereditary issues may pose challenges to us but positive living must be taught and instilled to our children in their youthful period.
Remember years ago, back home in the rural areas, where we used to get to our sleeping chapped feet and wrinkle faced grandmothers so as to steal her keys to the ‘Tsapi’ or ‘Dura’ (A small store house in the granary). We would steal as ‘Nzungu Dzembeu’, the seeds. We would hide them under the ‘Hozi’ granary which was placed on top of six big granite rocks so as to shy away from termites and rodents. That underneath, half a meter or so thoroughfare where we used to hide the stuff is called a ‘Gudzururu’.
Some people used to wash seed maize, roast or sell it. It is a habit which needs correctional services. Even in towns, one may spend the whole month planning or even preparing a budget with the family – on an empty stomach too! Once the salary comes, it’s ‘Hoza Friday Mphela vhiki!’ Come the next day, the seed is gone!
The only time we would act responsibly was when we stole Nyimo, Jugonuts and took them to a portable plate-like granite rock called a Sikiro where we two players would put a big round nut each in between two fingers, strike them so that they ‘dance’ in the Sikiro. They bump and the loser or weaker one is forced out of the field. It is taken by the winner and will be included in his seeds pack.
This is the type of messages in most of Mhike’s pieces. Julius Chinguno, Memory Chirere, Chirikure Chirikure, Mordecai Hamutyinei and others who have funny but subtle pieces must be smiling. Chirikure Chirikure says, I carry the Shona language’. It is good to have role models ahead of you who will give that much needed inspiration. Mhike is slowly grooving into their space.
Honourable Tino Machakaire, at Elias Machemedze’s ‘Moyo inzenza’ book launch, reiterated that authors must strive to write in their mother languages so as to promote indigenous languages in Zimbabwe. Mhike and others are in the right track.
It is a challenge for women to rise to the occasion and publish poetry individually in their mother languages. Prolific writer and Poet Rumbidzai Mubirira who is prolific on social media platforms like Whatsapp must publish a book or two as her ripening works seem to be dripping with a a lot of sweet honey juice. She is not alone in commiting this crime. There are many who are lurking around but needing a brush to ignite that spark. The cooperate world and promoters have not yet seen this yawning gap in the book sector.
The editor himself Muchuri, in ‘Mudengu Munei?’ (2011), made his voice heard, with a well woven satirical masterpiece, ‘ ‘Ibhinya’. How can a father rape his own daughter? How can a big woman or man do likewise. ‘Inzungu dzembeu’ (They are the future). ”Regai dzive shiri mazai haana moto’. Loosely translated this is the same as, ‘A bird in hand is worth two in the forest’.
In a nutshell, the book’s outward look is refreshing. Thumbs up to Zimbabwe book sector’s push for better brands. It seems Mhike and a couple of other writers are paying heed to the calls of making sure that the book must make the reader want to see what is covered inside. The font size is also welcome. It is debatable though whether the white bond paper is better than the seemingly favourable and user friendly newsprint. Aside to that, this tasty meal which is coming just like the proverbial Jean-Claude Vanne Damme’s movie title ‘Double impact’ – where Mhike is publishing it on his 35th birthday celebration the 10th of August 2022 at his place where he hails from the Chiefly, royal blood of Mazvihwa. He is the Crown Prince and Heir to the thrown.
Although the soft-spoken Mhike has achieved a lot in the arts industry and for his Zimbabwe, he remains in the kowtowing mode. Just enter in a place where a serious meeting is in progress. Put your phone on the silent mode. You will get to understand what Mhike is like – as cool as a cucumber! His accolades include getting recognition under the ‘South to South Arts Fellow 2022 (Living Arts International), Midlands Arts and Entertainment Reporter of the year 2021 ( Midlands Media Awards), Zvishavane Youths Ambassador 2021, (Zvishavane Youths Awards) and Impactful Filmaking Award ( Sheffield University, UK). This speaks volumes for a son of a chief who should be basking in the glory of his father’s name. No, it is not Mhike! He chose to educate the nation through arts and cultural initiatives.
His offering is fully laden with Jenaguru – moonlight fireside songs. Nevermind where you are. Carry it! Read on! Read along! Sing along! The future belongs to the informed.
Forget not to grab a copy and enjoy close to one hundred Shona poems. ‘Moli’, ‘Zvikoshese’, ‘Musavengana’, ‘Barika’, Rudo ndiwe’ are some of the book’s highlights. Read on!
It was good to have you along. And we part ways on a sad note. Zimbabwe is mourning one of it’s gallant fighters in the arts industry, Cont Mhlanga. He is a pioneer in the industry, after independence. He belongs to that group of the creme de la creme arts educators who revolutinised the arts in Zimbabwe. He deserves a big place among our gallant fighters, heroes and heroines of Zimbabwe who stood out above the rest to market it and make it what it is today. Rest in Eternal Peace Gamba! Xhawe lethu! Go well son of the soil! You gave us ‘Nzungu dzembeu’. It is up to us to munch them or put them to good use at the ‘ Tseu ‘
Till we meet again next time.
Adios! Sayonara! Cheerio!
Edwin Msipa aka Black Mampara, The Poet is a freelancer, playwright, novelist, educationist and actor. He can be contacted on +263773206455 +263718081106
Keith Zenda was born in 19 June 1985. He discovered his talent at a young age of six years old. He bacame a full time artist in 2003 and he is a self taught artist. Keith Zenda paintings tells a story about African lifestyle socially, economically and politically. He is more inspired by his rural background. Keith Zenda is a multiple awards winner on painting and recently he got nominated twice for the NAMA AWARDS 2022 for Outstanding 2 Dimensional work.
On 19/08/2021 he won an Award FOR JOB WELL DONE IN THE MORGAN &,CO ARTSPIRATION ‘MASKED’ ART COMPETITION 2D CATEGORY at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.
Keith has also done group Exhibitions locally and Internationally. He has also sold some of his art works to international art collectors. Now he is establishing an Art Gallery and studio at Makepesi business center, LowerGweru as a way of giving back to the community and also Keith Zenda acquired 5hacters land to establish an Arts and Culture Center in Shurugwi, Musasa Junction to discover and help more disadvantaged youths across Zimbabwe.
In 2017 Keith Zenda started a Mentorship program called Grassroots Art Workshop to mentor and help the disadvantaged and disabled rural and urban youths artists and empowering the girl child through art.
Artist statement
My art tells our daily life story socially, economically and politically. Art unites people. Art gives joy and happiness.
Artist statement about body of work:
Recording history through art. Our today story will become history inthe next generations.
Born Day Tawanda. Ncube on 24 May 1984 being son to Mr Thomas Syaambweze Johanes Mudimba.He was born at Kalungwizi village under chief Siabuwa in Binga District of Matabeland North.He is fourth in a family of six. D.T BiO went to Kalungwizi Primary in Binga for his primary education and attended Manyoni High School in Gokwe for secondary education.
He is an upcoming Sungura & Afro fusion artist, a session guitarist and a music producer. He sings 70% of his music in Tonga (his mother language) and the rest in IsiNdebele,Shona and a bit of English. Over and above vocals,D.T BiO Mudimba is also a guitarist who plays both lead and bass guitars.
In 2003, D.T BiO Mudimba formed the Manyoni High School band with now Dr
Paradzai Tagwireyi with assistance from guitarist Mike Chinyathi (former member of Shiri Nhema band).The high school band played on most functions in Gokwe Chief Sayi area during those years.He has also played for bands like Gokwe Black Stars, Ayoma Stars, Nyasha Parunofira & The Rose of Sharon, Kasambabezi Rhythms Zimbabwe Prisons Band to mention a few.
In 2015, He studied music with Zimbabwe Music Academy.
In 2020 D.T BiO Mudimba formed the “The Kaani Stars Band”of which together, on the 7th of January 2021 Officially launched a sungura Single titled KUJATA JATA(Kubata bata), song which has made noise in the music cycles till to date. Kujata jata is a song that discourages the morden day society from use of traditional juju for prosperity since it bears long term social problems unto children and family members.
Besides being an artist and professional guitarist, D.T BiO Mudimba is also a music producer at Afro Recordz Studios.He has produced his own music and many albums and singles for seasoned and upcoming artists like Simba Mtukudzi and Jeyz Marabini, Ephas Shamblo feat Orbert Chari and Eriki, Hiton Chimedza , Amai Constance Tshuma & The Worshipers,Slity, Umfo ka Bango and many others to mention a few.
Despite hailing from Binga,he currently resides in Bulawayo at Ntabazinduna township.
Covid is a deadly and highly contagious disease which has killed over 4.2 million people worldwide. In some cases it causes long-term health issues such as breathing problems, even for people who recover. The Sinopharm BIBP vaccine is being used in Zimbabwe to reduce the spread of Covid. Many people have concerns about vaccines. I hope to answer some common questions here to the best of my ability.
What are the most important things to know?
Everything about public health, disease, and vaccines is complicated. There are usually no simple answers.
The world is still in the process of learning about Covid. We don’t yet have all the answers. The information presented here is (as far as I can tell) what the world currently knows, but we’ll probably learn more soon.
Because there are usually no simple answers, it’s important to ask questions. There is a lot of incorrect information out there, usually from people who are well-intentioned but misinformed.
With those warnings in mind, the Sinopharm vaccine appears to be reasonably effective. It’s not perfect – some vaccinated people will still get Covid – but it will save many lives.
Why are vaccines important in fighting Covid?
Covid is very contagious. It is more infectious than other common diseases. It is mostly spread through the air, by being near other people who are talking or singing or shouting or even just breathing. It spreads more easily when air circulates less, such as indoors. People may be infected for two weeks before they show symptoms.
Precautions such as wearing masks can help slow the spread of the disease, but because it is so contagious, most people will encounter an infected person in their daily lives, and therefore have a risk of being infected themselves. That will be true until either the disease is nearly eliminated or until most of the population is resistant to the disease. Until that happens, infected people will unknowingly continue to spread the infection. Vaccination is the only way to break this cycle in the near future.
How effective is the Sinopharm vaccine?
In general, the Sinopharm vaccine seems to be 79% effective. When medical researchers study a larger number of patients, more reliable results will become available.
What are the advantages and drawbacks of Sinopharm when compared with other Covid vaccines?
Several other Covid vaccines have complicated requirements for transportation and storage: the vaccine doses must be kept very cold (for the Pfizer vaccine, -80° C) until they are ready for use. The Sinopharm vaccine may be stored between 2° C and 8° C, which is much easier and less expensive to do.
Sinopharm’s BIBP vaccine is 79% effective, which is a good efficacy rate. (As a generalization, an efficacy rate above 50% makes a vaccine useful.) Of the three vaccines in use in the United States, one has a lower efficacy rate and two have higher rates.
More research is needed on the efficacy of the Sinopharm vaccine among older patients. The early study did not have many patients over 60, so if the vaccine were less effective (or more effective) for older patients, we wouldn’t know.
“Breakthrough infections” of vaccinated people are possible with any vaccine, though hopefully rare. Some vaccines, such as the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, are known to reduce the severity of breakthrough infections: if you get the Pfizer vaccine but you’re unlucky enough to be infected with Covid anyway, your illness is extremely likely to be mild. It is not known whether the Sinopharm vaccine offers similar protection against severe breakthrough infections.
When a virus is very widespread, new variants can evolve. Covid has several new variants already. One, called the delta variant, is even more infectious. Several vaccines, including Sinopharm’s, are somewhat less effective against the delta variant.
Which countries are using the Sinopharm vaccine?
Currently, the Sinopharm vaccine is being used in Zimbabwe, Egypt, Morocco, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Hungary, Serbia, Belarus, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, and of course China. The World Health Organization (WHO) approved the Sinopharm vaccine for emergency use, as of 7 May 2021.
What is in the vaccine?
The Sinopharm vaccine is made with dead viruses. Vaccines have been made this way for over 100 years. The science is very well understood. (Other vaccines, such as those made by Pfizer and Moderna, use mRNA vaccine technology, which shows great efficacy in clinical trials. However, since these are the first mRNA vaccines ever produced, little is known about the long-term effects.)
The Sinopharm vaccine has been judged safe by the World Health Organization and by agencies of 24 national governments. This means that those agencies believe the ingredients are safe, the manufacturing processes are safe, and the clinical trials are believable.
What concerns about the vaccine are supported by known data?
You may not want to get vaccinated if:
the vaccination is being performed under non-sterile conditions (such as re-using needles)
the vaccine was not stored properly (this will make it less effective, but not dangerous)
you have had severe reactions to vaccinations in the past, such as anaphylactic shock (consult your doctor)
you are a pregnant woman (consult your doctor)
you are under 18 years old (currently we don’t have enough information in clinical studies)
What about other common concerns?
There are reasons to choose not to be vaccinated (see above). However, there is reassuring news about several other common concerns. If people have been avoiding vaccination for these reasons, they may want to reconsider:
Some people are concerned about toxins or other dangerous substances in the vaccine. However, several rounds of clinical trials have demonstrated the Sinopharm vaccine to be safe and effective. Unless the vaccine has been stored improperly or contaminated, all current evidence suggests that it is safe.
Some people believe that if they have had Covid and recovered, they don’t need the vaccine. However, the vaccine provides better immunity than recovering from the disease.
Some people hear that the vaccine is only 79% effective, and believe that it’s not good enough. While it is true that vaccination will not guarantee that you won’t get Covid, it will significantly improve your chances. Research has been shown that for some vaccines, if a vaccinated person is unlucky enough to get Covid, their cases are milder than those of unvaccinated people. We don’t yet know whether the Sinopharm vaccine provides that benefit, but future research will hopefully answer that question.
Some people believe that if they are healthy, then they don’t need the vaccine. However, even if you are willing to gamble with Covid, it is very contagious. An infected person is very likely to pass the disease to other people, such as their families.
As far as I can tell, that is what we know as of July 2021, but the world will continue to learn more about this disease. If you choose to get vaccinated, you protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors. Stay safe, my friends. May this plague end soon.
By Elvis Musirinofa ( Amor Zimbabwe Trust Director)
In the communities, we have two groups of people i.e. disabled and non-disabled. Between these two we see some sort of tensions existing. This has resulted in serious problems mainly to the minority disabled people’s community. Researchers have it that this disabled people’s community makes up 10% of each community’s total population and a disproportionate of 40% of those disabled people’s community are living in poverty in most of the developing countries. They are suffering from stigma, prejudice/discrimination and denial of access to essential care services e.g. health, education and jobs. Their needs are overlooked, marginalised, deprived of freedom and their rights are violated.
When it comes to Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) matters, their rights are often been overlooked as they are denied the right to establish relationships and to decide whether when, and with who to establish a relationship with and also to decide when and with who to have a family with. Many have been subjected to Gender Based Violence (GBV) e.g. forced sterilization, forced abortions and forced marriages resulting in them experiencing physical, emotional and sexual abuse and all other various forms of GBV.
Taking you back a bit, Disability cut across so many areas and the word Disability is used in everyday life however majority don’t really appreciate it. Most think of a physical challenge when this word ring in their minds. I therefore feel the need for me to define Disability. Again, some researchers are of the view that everyone has a Disability. As such many now have confusion as to what exactly Disability means and it’s therefore crucial for us to know what we will be referring when we say persons with Disabilities. According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, people with disabilities are those “. . . with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory [such as hearing or vision] impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.”
In the communities we live, we can see that there is a serious tension between the Disabled and non-disabled community that is being attributed from the fact that people with Disabilities are viewing the mainstream as their main source of their challenges. To end these challenges, the disabled people’s community is now of the view that for them to achieve good results and to also to achieve a subjective wellbeing, they have to fight their battles alone without assistance from the mainstream. To some extent, such a belief is justifiable. Can a lion be entrusted to safeguard against a goat kid? The answer is a big NO since the mainstream will never be seen speaking against their selves as the main source of the challenges disabled face.
The mainstream in return, to the actions of the disabled will decide to apply the sit back and relax approach. Some end up sabotaging disabled people’s activities. This is resulting in the disabled losing right battles. Since the mainstream reached the climax, people with disabilities have therefore lost hope and accepted their position as second class citizens and they no longer have the voice to stand against oppression. A few members from the mainstream community driven by the hearts are trying also to address the same challenges through representative advocacy which stands as another process for addressing inequity and disparities by bringing issues of disabled people’ disparities to the forefront of the agenda for decision makers through building awareness, visibility and public momentum behind disability issues. However, their advocacy efforts are proving to be meaningless as they are failing to involve the disabled.
Representative advocacy plays a role in mitigating the challenges disabled persons are faced with but for it to be meaningful it requires the involvement of the disabled.
The challenges people with disabilities face are being further worsened but the misconceptions that the mainstream has on Disability. Most of the people from the mainstream have wrong beliefs in Disability as it is evidence by various disability models such as the Charity model, medical, moral/religious and the economic model of disability.
To begin with the Charity model, it assets that PWDs are being seen as victims of circumstances which should be pitted and they are victims of their impairments. The situation is tragic and they are suffering therefore able bodied people should assist PWDs in whatever way possible as they need special services (Duyan 2007). From this Disability model, PWDs are now being tested as objects of deco which is really bad.
Secondly, the Economic Model as another disability model, views Disability as a challenge to productivity. The model dehumanize a person with Disability as someone who is somehow with missing parts. This has resulted in in discrimination against PWDs by employers who are opting able bodied.
More so, we have the Moral/Religious model of Disability which happens to be the oldest model and it regards Disability as a punishment from God for a particular sin or sins committed by the parents of the person with a Disability. People now therefore believe that some Disabilities are as a result of lack of adherence to a social morality and religious proclamations that warn against engaging in certain behaviours. A belief that it’s a result of an act of transgression against the prevailing moral and religious edicts. It was because of this model why we experienced such barbaric practices like killing of the albinos. From a chat with Pastor Patrick Pakai, the Board Chairperson of Amor Zimbabwe Trust, he is of a view that since theological interpretations of disability shape the way in which the society relates to PWDs, we need also to reverse such misconceptions theologically. Pastor Obert Changu, the Secretary general for AmorZIM also dismissed ancient theological beliefs supporting with a verse in the book of John Chapter 9, where Jesus after healing a blind man was heard saying “Neither this man nor his parents sinned”. Again in the book of Mark Chapter 10, we see Jesus healing the blind Bartemious, giving him back his sight. If he had sinned, do we think Jesus would have healed him?
More so, the Medical model of disability views disability as a medical problem that resides with the person/individual. Disability is regarded as a defect in or failure of a bodily system and as such is inherently abnormal and pathological with the goals of intervention being cure, amelioration of the physical condition of the greatest extent possible and rehabilitation (i.e. the adjustment of the person with the Disability to the condition and to the environment). This negative conception of Disability has contributed to some of the questionable medical treatments performed on PWDs e.g. voluntary sterilisation and euthanasia.
The Social model in addition to the above models views disability as a socially constructed phenomenon. It is the society which disabled people with impairments and therefore meaningful solution must be directed at societal change rather than individual adjustment and rehabilitation.
Pondering on the challenges people with disabilities face, their source and the tension existing. I felt the need for us to deeply delve into these relationships and come up with some long term solutions which can bring peace, unit and tranquillity among the disabled and non-Disabled communities, I also personally felt the need for inclusion as the only way forward to improve the relationships and to boost the subjective wellbeing of the Disabled person’s community. A divided house cannot stand, unit among the disabled and non-disabled community can promote a peaceful coexistence, less frictions which promote the growth of the nations at large.
I call upon all members from the mainstream society to view disability from another angle for disability doesn’t mean inability. To the disabled people’s community, I say accept your fellow brother and sisters who are able bodied and involve them in all your activities as it may boost their appreciation of Disability. Inclusion is not only about involvement of the disabled into mainstream activities but also inclusion of the mainstream into Disability activities. Those who offer their support from hearts, don’t turn their love away. The march of Women in France was successful not only because of women’s participation but support from the males who also participated in artificial breasts pretending to be women.
To my fellow able bodied, I urge you all to involve our fellow disabled relatives and friends. Frictions are everywhere however they need us to apply a good emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills and even acceptance of our partners’ weakness. Disability doesn’t mean inability. Sometimes it’s not about the muscles but how sharp one’s mind is which can lead to success
Inclusivity is the only way for us to go and the road to community development. Quoting Miss I Mariko the Disability Coordinator of the Midlands State University of Zimbabwe (MSU), “Disability inclusion ensures that no one is left behind and is a gateway to a wholesome approach to development”. Mr Mangayi Pedzisai a Lecturer at Zimbabwe Open University in support of this view had it that “The world in incomplete until it fully includes people with different abilities within its spheres”. Let’s all therefore embrace inclusion and spread the gospel of LOVE. As Amor Zimbabwe Trust, we say “LOVE” the agape kind of love as the only way for us to reach greater heights in our communities.
Two different sets of vibrant poets; the upcoming and published, have partnered in publishing a gem of a Shona poetry anthology entitled, ‘Maungira eZimbabwe’. And indeed the echoes of these young Zimbabwe’s poets will reverberate forever. Their songs will last and last like a mother’s love. It would be unjust not to start by paying glowing tribute to Emmanuel ‘The Prince of Mazvihwa’ Mhike who has developed a knack of grooming upcoming poets and writers in Zimbabwe. It would also be wayward not to mention his other sixteen ‘partners in crime’ whose deft touch with the pen shone throughout the book from the first page to the last one. The reader of Maungira eZimbabwe needs to be reminded to eat to a point of satiety first before reading this marvelous piece of art, lest he or she spends the whole day flipping through it’s pages and finds no time to eat. Once upon a time, seventeen poets teamed up to publish a Shona anthology in 2014 when poet Rabson Shumba connived with fellow upcoming and published poets, to invade the Facebook platform and created the 263-Nhetembo page. And befittingly, a National Arts Merit Awards(NAMA) nominee book entitled, ‘Dzinonyandura-Svinga renduri’ which also became an A-Level Setbook was published. It seems seventeen is the number! Maungira eZimbabwe comes on the backdrop of several other published anthologies but stands out as it has very young poets. Maungira eZimbabwe has also come at a time when Poet VaChikepe has been nominated for the 2021, Mutabaruka Award for Best Poet/Spoken Word Entertainer- another echoing voice of Zimbabwe.
MAUNGIRA EZIMBABWE
The book warms up with Emmanuel Mhike, who is the heir to the throne of Mazvihwa. Unlike most of the well-to-do pampered ‘boys’, he is leading and showing the way in, ‘Itai muchiziva’. His lines bare it all;
He is reminding the reader not to relax and to do whatever is needed knowing that there is, like a flower, time to glow and time to wilt. There is time to rule and time to be ruled. There is time to be born and time to leave the mother Earth. Twenty-four year old debutante and Midlands State University (MSU) student, Shamiso Nyoni says she got inspired by renowned artist Albert Nyathi. She added her voice in Maungira eZimbabwe like a true veteran. Having been sitting on her poems she got this chance and weighed in with seven pieces. The first cut seems to be the deepest cut: ‘Dai wadziidza’
Shamiso is extolling the virtues of being educated than just being a woman who just want to get things for free, being smart on the outlook but lacking wisdom. Tafadzwa Moyo, who has five or so publications on his shelf brings relief to Shamiso’s piece, ‘
Shamiso is questioning her fellow friends on what happened to her daughter and girls in schools. Also according to the Sunday Mail newspaper dated 04/04/21, over 5 000 school girls got impregnated during the two months of January and February 2021 when children had been given a holiday- creating a fertile condition for teenage pregnancy. Men too were at home and converted the community to a hunting ground. Moyo then provides the part answer to what could have caused the pregnancies and he also shows the consequences of crime in his masterpiece, ‘Pisai muromo’
Aah, hausvodi here kuda kuvanza zvawakaita/ Kana uri munhu dzikama uti pasi tyo-o!/ Uchere chikomba pasi upfire kuti ptu-u!/ Ukumbire ruregerero uti ndakakanganisa/ Munhu wepi kuita sehuku inodya mazai ayo?…….
……………………….. Toko waro! Nhasi zvaiwana ngwarati!/ Wava mumakechemu, dzachenaka/….. Ndiwo mubairo wehuku inodya mazai ayo! From his deep memories of the mines he worked to the life of ‘Gumha-gumha’, the Chipinge born and now South African-based, Poet Witness Majube walks us through the tough life in these years of hardship. His piece,’ ‘ZvemaShurugwi’ highlights some of the challenges Zimbabwe faced. The epitome of his art is depicted in the piece: ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19)’
Nyika yatungwa nedzamushore dzakagomara/ Hosha iyi ndichazezesa kutaramutsa vanhu kwavaipambara/ Chodiwa kutevedza mirau tipone, Gonzo mhini gara mumhango chiuyi chikuwanemo, Udzvatsvatsva hunoparira kukoka chedzinza, chiseme. Icharira hayo tsuri chamupupuri ichi chichapfuura/ Kuomesa musoro chete, yedzinza misoro wapura. Witness has witnessed it in South Africa and elsewhere. Here, he is not mincing his words. He says Corona Virus has no cure yet. It is putting everything to a standstill and it is only us who must own up by not perambulating on our streets for no apparent reason. ‘Stay at home!’ is his message. Another female voice on the roll is that one of young Fadzai Katanda. She is a Performing poet who has won several accolades in the poetry circles. In Maungira, Katanda warmed up her mind with ‘Kwedu’. In this brilliant piece she is highlighting some of the issues found in her area.
In ‘Ndapera’, she bemoans the energy-sapping issues she faces at home; husband only remembering his home when the wise-waters have gobbled all the money, the food which is gone and nothing to replenish it yet her suckling baby isn’t seeing an ’empty’ milk-less breast. Another exciting piece is :’Chiramu pamukadzi wangu’ where she says;
….Mukadzi hatidzvutidzane sechikari pandari…..
This is a warning to all men that once a woman is taken, she must not be seen as a cupful of beer which men share. It’s a taboo! Prominent legal Practitioner and poet, Tamutswa Muzana Kundidzora who gives much credit to his parents and his Grade six teacher for the encouragement in writing is one of the most powerful poets on social media’s Writers International Network Zimbabwe (WINZIM) and Essential Books writers platforms. He writes with so much ease yet bringing out complexity. And the first five lines of his poem, ‘Baba vemangwana’ affirms his skilful approach. Simple but comple: Paakasvika ndakati hevo baba vemangwana/…..
Matendafuti naiwo madhidhasi akapfeka/……….. Vekudzinga vana vechikoro havana kumbomudana/………
Nhasi uno ave huzvi, shoroma, hwereshenga, mabatakiyi/…….
Ini ndinongodzitswanya inda muhozi mangu muno/…….. Rising poet Joshua Muitireyi is surely on a mission to make sure our past heritage is not lost but bright back. In his piece: ‘ Mhandara’ young Muitireyi feels the role of the aunt in the Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) process was second to none. Due to the societal fabric which hitherto is torn and shredded into sort of pillow stuffings, it is now easier to fall in love with a girl than before. Sometimes she makes advances first before the three little words jump out of man:
He goes on to lament that nowadays boys and girls are to to jump onto unprotected sex by the bushes resulting in illegitimate children. His use of poetic devices is very relavant and positive. There he goes: Vane zvipfuva zvakaita sehuyo vari matemhe/ Yangove wada atora semuzhanje wepanzira/ Vanatete vakaenda pamudyandigere/ Ravo basa vakarongedza mudzihozi/ Musikana natete zvenge kitsi nagonzo/ Vana vopinda muwanano mbodza vachibika/ Vasikana voswera pachiringiro, dota vachizora/ Tsiye dzobviswa voita dzokunyora/ Tupenzura twotorwa kutara tara kuhope Ndochavo chikoro chavakapasa/ vanochigona/ Vokoshesa hope dzavo kudarika umhandara/
Ironically, this song sung by Muitirei is the same song sung by Shamiso in her brilliant piece, ‘Dai wadzidza’. And to make amends, these young poets represent their peers elsewhere and are seeing it happening under their nose. They have taken the lead in letting the cat out of the bag. Our good education system is advised to take a look at this pragmatical way of thinking. From ‘Hamurevi nhema to her fifteenth piece, ‘Bhuku remhosva, Poetess Rombidzai Olivia Mubirira never ceases to seek divine intervention and love in societal challenges facing her people. Mubirira, in ‘Chazezesa’, just like Majube, also adds her voice to the ‘war’ cries against the marauding COVID 19 pandemic. She urges all to adhere to the set guiding rules:
Garai mudzimba dzenyu/ Mirai uko nekokoko/ Chenjerai dzihwamupengo/ Chazezesa!
As if that is not enough Mubirira, in ‘Bhuku remhosva’, goes on to question the wisdom of spouses idea of keeping ‘Case books’. She asks why they write down issues once they wrong each other instead of solving them whilst they are alive.
She goes on to sing the same song sung by Leonard Zhakata, ‘Mugove’ as her Lamentations take her to seek divine intervention from Yahweh. And she believes He is the one who can hear the people’s pleas. Gutu born Farai Batsirai Manguvo never ceases to amaze with his deep humorous Shona lines. He uses satire to get to his point:
Dai waiveko iwe here wemutupo wemadyo/ Iwe bere anoteketerwa achinzi zvipere zvipere/ Zvokwadi waipera shavi rekutsvukisa meso seshavi shavi…..
In this funny piece, ‘Dai waiveko iwe’, He becries about the death of morals in the society and believes if today’s fast life(Hyena, the Bere) was around long ago he should have learnt a lesson or two. Manguvo goes on to tackle witcraft and other social issues satirically and will leave the reader in stitches. Youthful prodigy Prosper Njeke, in ‘Muchatinetsa’ ignites the fearful debate on whether the ‘haves’ rely on goblins or not to build their mansions as the ‘have nots’ proclaim;
Vamwe nekoko, ‘Ane makona makuru/ Angaenda sei asina waasiira zvikwambo zvake/
In furtherance, Njeke’s poem entitled, ‘Ndave kukuzivai’ goes on to ask fellow kinsmen to learn to give and not to be always on the receiving end. Grade Taruwona’s ‘Tinokutendai’ is a thanksgiving poem dedicated to the liberation struggle’s living and departed heroes (ines). She reminds everyone that Zimbabwe’s freedom came through the barrel and shear determination and sacrifice by the sons and daughters of the soil;
Tinokutendai magamba akatifira/ Imi varwi vehondo yerusununguko/ Makarwa mumire, renyu ropa rikadeuka. In ‘Kwamupfiganebwe’ and ‘Muzvinaguhwa’, Taruwona relieves Marshall Munhumumwe’s lines and weaves them into her own fabric in a refreshing manner. Marondera based performing poet, Munashe Dhliwayo better known as ‘chamapezi’ is one of the youngest poets in the project. His clarion call on the issue of securing land for farming and building purposes is crystal clear;
Chamapezi, like the school head’s stamp goes on to stamp his authority in the advocacy for the acquisition of tangible wealth(land) and not the ‘worldly’ items in ‘Taimbove navo’. In one of his impeccable eleven entrants, South Africa based rising poet and author Admire Ziwawa takes us back through the memory lane in ‘Pwere’. He brings back childhood fantasies and joys;
Chandaida chose ndaingochemera ndopiwa/ Abata chake ndonzwa kuti dai chiri changu/ Asi kwete riri godo kana ruchiva/ Kuchingova chete kuda zvese zvive zvangu…..
Many a times children are egocentric. Just like in Jean Jacques Rousso’s words, we are reminded here that ‘Children are children, they are not young adults.’ They are Kings and queens liked by all. They enjoy every bit of their life too! Multilingual poet, journalist and television actor Siphosami Ndlovu’s bag has fifteen flawless pieces. In one of his masterpieces entitled, ‘Dzidza Janhi’, we encounter a dialogue between a nephew (Janhi) and his grandfather. The poem is encouraging folks to desist from taking refined foods which lead to cancer but instead choose the traditional foods:
A: ……Idya kudya kwechivanhu utande mukana wekubatira chirwere ichi. A Ho-o nhai, saka inoonekwa sei? B Inoonekwa nebundu risakajairika/ Raregererwa rinova ronda rinonyenga/ Yakubata ukachimbidza kuona chiremba wararama…..
In a dialogue formation, he describes what the sign of breast cancer is like and offers advice that one must seek medical attention at once on suspecting the disease. Ndlovu’s other themes deal with advocacy in peace and life guidance issues. In simple language, without irony, but with seriousness Tinashe Chikumbo’s first poem, ‘Vakadaro mbuya’ offers advice to the youths and everyone that Zimbabwe’s Independence was not given to us on a silver platter but was won through an ardous journey with many losing lives and never enjoying it’s fruits. We are reminded too that reversing the same gains may be a mockery to our sovereignty. Sekuru venyu vakatsakatikira kuhondo/ Vakatorwa nemagandanga ndokurova/ Zvomoti, “Isungirirei, tiisunungurewo isu.’’ Munoigona imi?/ Musadaro, kusunungura nyika handi nyore/ Vazhinji havana kuiona yasununguka semi/ Vazhinji varere mumasango vasina makuva…… Chikumbo also praises J. C. Kumbirai who he plaudits for inspiring him to write Shona poetry. Another young amazing and marvelous female poet, Tsitsi Felistas Ndyara added her voice with ten equally short pieces. In ‘Munoda kuti ndiitei?’, Ndyara asks her folks real questions. Her point is that whatever one does, there comes opposing veiws. One must not be deterred by negative forces surrounding him or her.
Also in ‘Nekuti ndiri munhukadzi’ Ndyara laments the challenges faced by women. She says that men try to take advantage of them by raping them and sometimes asking for ‘something’ in exchange for a job. So sad!
Kutsvaga basa hunzi, ‘Ngatitambe ngoma unoriwana.’/ Kudoti wangu murume ndakapfimbika kumba sematamba/ Hunzi tinoda iwe chigagairwa chatiri kuona/ Kuti tana votondininira kure senhunzi Nekuti ndiri munhukadzi/ Ndavirirwa zvangu ndiri pabasa/ Ndinotsikida netsoka mukati memhindo….. Poems make fun. A rubber mask can even startle it’s creator. The same happens with a lady who in Fibion Joel Nyambare’s poem ‘Mwana wangu’ is set to go to the city (Harare) for time. She is offered advice, in a funny but realistic way, on being responsible and not to be like a bicycle which can be climbed by anyone:
Rega kuitwa watasvawatasva bhiza repahofisi/ Zviya zvekotopeya repamusika rinoibva nebatwa-batwa/ Mazuva ano kune matenda, unofa!/
Again in Maungira eZimbabwe’s final poem, Nyambare goes on to give the last word to girls. He urges them to be wise and carry the symbolic Unhu character.
Indeed the facilitators of this massive project need to be applauded and supported. The poets too deserve a pat on their backs for taking the Shona language to another level. Recently, the Deputy Minister of Youth, Sport and the Arts, Honourable Tapfuma Machakaire urged writers to write books in their indigenous languages a feat which these seventeen poets did. Let their voices echoe in all the four corners of Zimbabwe and elsewhere.
Till next time! Tatenda! Siyabonga! Mwashuma! Twalumba!
ABOUT THE WRITER
Edwin Msipa aka Black Mampara, The Poet or Uncle Sipet is a Freelance writer who writes in his own capacity. He is a poet, author of several books, storyteller, arts educator, teacher, Traditional dance trainer and Adjudicator. He can be contacted on:
Wear your MASK, wash your hands thoroughly under clean and safe running water for 20 sec. conds or more and always remember to use a recommended sanitiser.
Youthful Tedious Muchapedza Matsito (Junior) releases an intensely hot and emotional album in remembrance of his departed forebears.
Story by Uncle Sipet
28/03/21
Today marks exactly two years after the passing on of a true Zimbabwe’s Ngwenya-Sungura music icon – Tedious Muchapedza Matsito (Senior) who died on 28 March 2019. His death not only left a yawning gap in the family but opened deep wounds as his wife had also died a couple of years back(2006). This had also come on the trot after the death of his three Ngwenya brothers siblings; Edmore Matsito, Michael Matsito(Rhythm guitarist) in 2005 and Jabulani Matsito(Bassist) in 2002 These four Matsito brothers had started their musical journey way back in 1989 at Granary farm in Manzou(Mazoe), Mashonaland Central Province of Zimbabwe. They recorded seven singles which included hit songs ‘Zuva guru’ and ‘Sekuru vatenga mota’. The Ngwenya Brothers then later teamed up with the legendary Sungura’s unsung hero Shepherd Chinyani in 1992 and released a scorcher album, ‘Nyaradzo’ which became an instant blockbuster as it gained widespread popularity. It also made sales and catapulted the Ngwenya movement to fame. This album came out at a time when Kwangwari Gwaindepi aka Leonard ‘Musoro Wenyoka Dembo’ had set the bar higher with his bulldozer album ‘Chitekete’. Who will forget this masterpiece which was then regarded as a ‘National Anthem’ and had a rare opportunity to be used as a background song at the Miss World Contest in Namibia in the mid 90s. That Chitekete vinyl discs and cassettes were selling fast like hot buns was not a mean achievement. And that ‘Nyaradzo’ stood the test and enjoyed a fair share of admiration, airplay on all stations, then Radio One to Four and sales says it all. Even the youthful ‘Bhibho Brigades’ who spotted punky hair cuts which were also populaly known as ZBC Haircuts(seemingly replaced now by Mario Balotteli’s Mahawk hair cuts) and carried those medium sized Trident Cassette Players on their shoulders, would agree that Ngwenya Brothers’ first album, ‘Nyaradzo’ was worth playing at birthday parties, weddings and anywhere. Be it travelling to the rural areas or to the city centre using public transport, it was common sense for drivers to pick any track off the album ‘Nyaradzo’. After scoring a great success with ‘Nyaradzo’, Ngwenya Brothers went on to release seven more albums. ‘Pachikomana ndiyoyo’ was one of their mainstay. Before his demise, Tedious Muchapedza Matsito (Senior) had released fifteen solo albums which added up to twenty-two including the seven he did in collaboration with his brothers.
….THE RETURN OF TEDIOUS AND NGWENYA SPIRIT…
In Shona they say, ‘ Kufa kwemujoni kambani haivhare’ or ‘Kufa kwehosi inosiya imwe!’ Literary translated, this means that upon the passing on of the Matsitos, a young bud unfolded in the form of the now 20 year old Tedious Muchapedza Matsito (Junior). Indeed, it is very rare to have such a young man choosing to ignore what his peers are following and deciding to further his forebears’ vision and becoming a success story. Very few are managing considering that he is still in his budding years. One of the greatest success stories of children of fallen and living musicians who are making it elsewhere is the famous Nigerian, Femi Kuti, the son of Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Femi is making sure his late father’s legacy is restored. Back home, the Chimbetus seem to be heading in the right direction. And in the Chimbetus family just like the Ngwenya brother’s, music seems to flow more than blood in their veins as almost everyone was a singer or is Singing. And both families have two female offsprings on the microphone; Saiwe Chimbetu and Tarisai Matsito. There is Simon and Naison Chimbetu, the fathers of Sulu and Naisoni respectively. The two forebears made Dendera music. And their offsprings are making sure the genre lasts longer than soap hidden in water. The Dembo brothers; Tendai and Morgan have tried it but are still trying to strike the right chord in music. John Chibadura’s son revived his father’s legacy. He is also on the road and fighting to make a mark. Biggie Tembo Marasha (Junior) is also trying. Aside to that, Guspy Warrior, son of gospel crooner and the ‘Makorokoto’ hitmaker Machanic Manyeruke begged to differ as he took a diverging route in his flourishing music career. He is into the Zimdancehall genre. Chiwoniso ‘Chi’ Mararire followed his father Dumi Maraire’s Mbira genre and is a true testimony of the importance of ‘catching them younger’. Her young and sweet voice can be heard on Dumi Maraire’s song, ‘Tichazomuona’. Chiwoniso’s daughter Ammara, with whom she sired with one of Zimbabwe’s greatest lead guitarists Andy Brown also took her own route. Peter Moyo, the son of Tongayi ‘Dhehwa’ Moyo is also grooving in bit by bit into his father’s music. It may take time but he has the potential. Vibrant Selmour Mtukudzi is moving in strides too in an industry which was once male-dorminant and with the support of her husband Tendai Manatsa. The duo is set to scale greater heights. Tendai, in his own right, is a polished guitarist and is another success story of a son of a great musician who took the music industry by storm before and after Independence – Zexie Manatsa of the Green Arrows fame. Zexie also sang with his brother. The late Sam Mtukudzi was also following his fathers footsteps; Oliver and Robert. Stacey Macheso, daughter of Alick Macheso, is in gospel music and her brothers Esau and Tatenda are moving in tandem with their father’s Sungura beat with much aplomb, zeal and zest. The Charambas son and Jah Prayzah’s son are showing signs of hitting the spot and with more guidance will rise to the occasion in the same way the Venda Kids and Dalom Kids of South Africa did in the 80s. The list is endless.
FAMILY AFFAIRS And just like the late Tanzanian Pop-Gospel musician Fanuel Sedekia who used to carry his whole family to the studio, Zimbabwe’s artists seem to have a knack of instilling musical jabs on the shoulders of their siblings or offsprings. Talk of the Rusikes, the Mbirimis, The Madzikatires, the Zacharias, the Tights, The Skuzas, The Dhibhuras, The Chingairas and many more. In the sporting arena, the Blacks did it in Tennis. The Ndlovu brothers shone in football and so were the Chungas, the Mugeyis, the Chamwaliras, the Mckops the Chimedzas, the Kwashis and so on. The Mungoshi, the Chifunyises and the Mafumhes are some of Zimbabwe’s illustrious literary arts families in the picture. The Ndandarikas family never disappointed in the three-dimensional visual arts sculptors.
So powerful is the spirit of oneness in any family.
THE HOT ALBUM ‘MANDIPA MUKANA’ and MACHESO’S TUTELAGE
The humble Tedious Muchapedza Matsito Junior revealed that he started working with his late father in 2018 and co-wrote all the seven songs on the album, ‘Mandipa Mukana’, with him. “I did cut my teeth in the music industry as I first held shows with my father in 2018 before he passed on,” said Tedious Junior. “I am indebted a lot to ‘Mudhara’ Alick Macheso whose guardianship has made me what I am today.” Junior Tedious says he has learnt a lot at Zimbabwe’s sungura great, Alick ‘Extrabasso’ Macheso’s home and is still a student. “Mudhara, as he affectionately calls Macheso, taught me how to play the guitar and he takes me as his son.” And that the album was recorded at ‘Baba Shero’s’ Alema Studios speaks volumes on the arrangement of the music and it’s quality. Only time will tell as the Ngwenya-Sungura music will continue to sink in the hearts of its multitude of old and new fans from within and without Zimbabwe’s boarders.
SONGS
MANDIPA MUKANA (08.16 minutes) We must be thankful to the Almighty for giving us life and it is His grace for us to be alive.
KUTAMBA NENGUVA (10.04 minutes) One must make use time and make hay whilst the sun shines.
PASI PENYIKA (08.50 min) This one is a deep rooted love song. He sings about a beautiful woman he met.
MOYO MUCHENA (06.05minutes)
Sometimes a kind-hearted person is repayed by evil ways so one has to use wisdom in helping others.
ZVOONA MESO (07.36) Love is for two. One must settle down and close his or her eyes to third partners in love so as to have something tangible and be counted in life.
TAMBIRA KURE (06.42min) Those in love must not do any clandestine activities behind their lovers back as two joined together are one in spirit and flesh.
NDIBATSIREIWO (09.19minutes) Often times when parents die the children have nowhere to look up to. In this sizzling song Tedious Junior teamed up with young Bassist Esau Macheso and Tatenda Macheso (Rhythm) as the voice for orphans who are yearning to be heard and assisted.
The other band members are; •Whatmore Gwezere(Lead guitarist), •Shame Jonifani( Rhythm), •James Zacharia( Bassist) and Clayton Marufu( Drums).
Junior Matsito urges his fellow young artists to be good listeners to advice from elders and to be patient in anything they embark on.
Artist: TEDIOUS MUCHAPEDZA MATSITO (JUNIOR) Album Title: MANDIPA MUKANA Studio: ALEMA STUDIOS AND FUTURE CITY RECORDS™ Year : 2021 •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ABOUT THE WRITER
Edwin Msipa aka Uncle Sipet or Black Mampara is a Freelance writer who writes for several blogs and has interviewed quite a number of local and international artists. He is a literary arts reveiwer, a published poet and author of several children’s story books and fictional works. Black Mampara taught at various schools in Zimbabwe and founded Simukai Arts Family (SAFA). He can be contacted on the following numbers: +263 780 009 251 +263 776 684 308
Kelvin Muzira was born on the 24th of August 1994 at the White Maternity Hospital in Shurugwi, Zimbabwe. He did his primary education at Charles Wraith Primary School and his Secondary education at Parkinson Secondary School in Shurugwi. He went on to do his Advanced level at Chrome High School where his poetic journey started. Kelvin is a minister of the Word by the will of God. He is also a passionate actor who started his acting career in 2019 when he was featured in a Zimbabwean local movie called Evil money. Kelvin Muzira featured in Mhere yenduri and the bleeding tree poetry anthologies before producing his English novella titled Mhiripiri which will be launched in February 2021.
1. The Babylonians
As gluttonous as curiosity,
Driven by their anxiety,
Subaltern to acerbity,
In their portfolios lives uncertainty.
Under knowledge surveillance,
They are contumacious however foolish,
Otiose yet they eulogy hard work,
Why?
Because they want to use the vulnerable.
They kiss the Holy Book,
Raise their hand high to the sky,
And swear with the Holy book,
As if it’s permitted in its laws.
Inanimate is their inner man,
As they have eaten the forbidden fruit,
Their zeal incarcerate them,
Melchizedek will never visit them.
Their power is powerless,
All riddles interpret against them,
As their powerless prosper over them,
Get out from them people of God.
Babylon is their gold-coated City,
Fallacious posters decorated in every street,
Mendacious sermons recapitulate who they really are,
And they stop at nothing to wrong foot.
God’s wrath will judge over them,
Time and place will rise against them,
And their pieces of silver will bury them,
With their knowledge they will never see forever,
Which only the wise will see.
2. The Noisy Shining Darkness
In the clouds I saw,
A fierce glory thundering,
Quaking the pillars of the globe,
It was not lighting,
But something more,
Like the falling of the stars and the moon.
Armageddon is supposed to be worse,
But our fears are nothing less,
In the times when the USA, Russia and China were roaring,
But all their boasting voices were silenced,
By the thundering storm.
Hopes are as disappointing as wet gunpowders,
The faith of winning a war coming from a blind front,
Anointing oils and prescriptions work with predictions,
But now comes the unexplainable,
The best we can do is wait,
And see the rest.
Here comes the depredator of our happiness,
The end of our sleepless nights,
The end of our false peace,
To both the taciturn and garrulous,
The bushmen and the giants,
Let’s cry one last time,
Because the thunderous storm has come to diminish us,
Before destroying us.
Open the Bible and the scroll,
The prophecies, the wonders and the signs,
Is it the season of the judgment yard,
Or we are in for a new era.
Is it a warning,
Or the results of an ignored warning,
Answer us as we pray father,
What is the meaning of this shining darknewis
3. Success and failure
To put one’s shoulder to the wheel,
In the deep sorrows we excel,
Also our debility we propel,
That’s why self satisfaction is so unreal.
As heavy as lead,
Are the burdens of life in greed,
Especially where selfishness flood,
Oaks fall when reeds stand.
I am a dare-devil,
Pushing the immovable wheel,
Out of oblivion, foolishness and dead zeal,
But I know that in such a drill,
God is the real deal.
In anyway life is a joke,
We rise to fall,
And fall to fly.
Success is just a meal,
Failure is the wash-down,
The two walk hand in hand,
And are close friends.
However life is a journey,
Where sailors pass,
And where normal people forever dwell,
The Saints fail to succeed,
But the unrighteous succeed to fail.
4. Dirty inspiration
Sympathy in this world is past,
After being brutalised by the vitiated trust.
No one cares,
No one dares.
No more soft hearts,
It’s either the extremely hard ones,
Or the extremely hurt ones,
Am I the only one seeing this?
Love has gone cold,
And this has gone natural.
Besides being demonic,
They celebrate it as heroic,
But no one dares to stand.
I’m no longer inspired by modern heroes,
For they feed on human blood,
And buy lots of beers for infants,
Heroism has become a scam.
5. Ponder I Ponder!
Woven threads of unending love,
Deep into the all-way lucrative agenda,
Dreams of brighter days flashing,
And visions of the most brighter days promising,
Yes, I ponder!
A little dark in complexion,
If only we could sell eyes,
Hers must have been the most expensive,
With the goldish eyebrows,
And matching perfectly to her long face.
Her mouth the warehouse of honeying words,
Everyday I enjoy her loquaciousness,
And diligence which is the delight of her benedictions,
Only one nickname fits her the most,
Perfect.
Tranquility is her village of origin,
Named after the most protected rose in the garden of Eden,
Her ears are the satellites of fortunes,
And her hairs are the cherubims of her temple of God,
Poems 