TALKING ARTS WITH MTHULISI NDLOVU #OPINION
27 August 2024, 08:49CAT(BANO NEWS)
By Mthulisi Ndlovu (KingKG/KhuluGatsheni)
MATEBELELAND, ZIMBABWE - For decades, the creative community in Matebeleland has been crying out for support and solidarity, but their pleas seem to be falling on deaf ears.
Despite being home to legendary creatives like Lovemore Majaivana, Ilanga, Jeys Marabini, Vusa Mkhaya, Albert Nyathi, IYASA, Sandra Ndebele, and others, the region's artists continue to struggle for recognition and success beyond their local borders.
However, there are a number of trailblazers who are breaking boundaries and limitations internationally. To mention but a few, artists like Nitefreak, Vuyo Brown, Mzoe 7, Awakhiwe (AWA), Philani A. Nyoni (PAN), Tsitsi Nomsa Ngwenya, Njabulo Moyo, Jonah Nyoni, Prosperity Mpofu, Sonkomose, Obert Dube, Black Umfolosi, Nobuntu band, Mokoomba band, Msiz' Kay, and Ma 9 are making waves globally with their unique talent and dedication.
These artists are proof that Matebeleland has the potential to produce world-class talent, but they need support and recognition to reach their full potential. The question remains: why is it so hard for Matebeleland artists to break through nationally and internationally? Is the lack of support a genuine issue, or is it an excuse for not putting in enough effort?
The answer lies in a combination of factors. Firstly, there is a need for a unified front among Matebeleland creatives to promote their work and support one another. Secondly, there needs to be a paradigm shift in how the creative industry is perceived and supported in Zimbabwe. The government and private sector must invest in initiatives that promote and develop the creative industry, particularly in marginalized regions like Matebeleland.
Again, Matebeleland creatives must take ownership of their success and not rely solely on sympathy and support. They must be proactive in seeking opportunities, collaborating with other artists, and using digital platforms to reach a wider audience.
The time has come for the Matebeleland creative community to rise up and demand recognition and support. It is time to break down the barriers that have held them back for so long and unleash their full potential on the world.
Furthermore, the success of Matebeleland artists can have a ripple effect on the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating growth in the preservation of our culture and heritage. It is therefore crucial that stakeholders come together to create an enabling environment for creatives to thrive.
In conclusion, the Matebeleland creative community deserves more than just sympathy; they deserve tangible support and recognition. By working together, we can unlock the full potential of Matebeleland's creatives and showcase their talent to the world.
On behalf of the Matebeleland creative community, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals and organizations that have been instrumental in elevating and marketing emerging and established Matebeleland creatives:
* Skyz Metro FM
* Khulumani FM
* Star FM
* Zi FM
* BANO NEWS
* Breeze FM
* Radio Bukalanga
* UMthwakazi Funerals
* Ezra Tshisa Sibanda
* Plot Mhako
* Kudakwashe Takundwa
* Rhumba News Online
* Earground
* Bruce Njube Giant
* Mthabisi RasMthire Tshuma
* Madlela Skhobokhobo
* Khiwa
* Asakhane Live
* Podcast Yabantu
Your unwavering support and dedication to showcasing Matebeleland talent have not gone unnoticed. Through your platforms, you have provided a voice for the voiceless, a stage for the hidden, and a spotlight for the deserving. Your contributions have been invaluable in promoting the rich cultural heritage and creative expression of Matebeleland.
Thank you for believing in the potential of Matebeleland creatives and for working tirelessly to amplify their voices. Your efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many, and we are forever grateful.
About the writer:
Mthulisi Ndlovu, also known as KingKG or KhuluGatsheni, is a writer, poet, philanthropist, and publisher. He is the co-author of Izinkondlo ezinhlobonhlobo, an Ordinary Level ZIMSEC set book (2019-2023), Ubuntu (The Raw Truth Unravelled), Politicking (Lockdown Memoirs From Within), Ubuntu Nqaba Ngqo, amongst others.
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