Tinmac takes grand musical stage to rural Hwedza

Zimbabwe Govt Deputy Minister Tests Positive For Coronavirus – The Zimbabwe Mail — Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire

Bridget Mabanda

Hwedza rural folk will this Christmas holiday serenade to music from Zimbabwe’s top artistes in what has now become an annual event hosted by Deputy Minister of Youth, Sport, Art and Recreation, Tino Machakaire

Dep Minister Machakaire, who is also the legislator for Hwedza South Constituency, said the event is an opportunity for those with varying talents to showcase them and potentially get scouted.

He said there is great need for supporting local musicians.

“What does it benefit us or the local arts industry to fork out thousands of dollars to outsiders? It is better we empower our own with that same money. It is in that vein of thought that I invite you all to the annual Hwedza Arts Festival 2022.

“It is bigger and better and 100% local. Come with your friends and family and enjoy purely Zimbabwean entertainment for free. I hope to see you all on Sunday 25 December 2022,” he said.

Machakaire initially wanted to book for international artists but he realised that there is need for supporting local talents.

“I had thought of booking an international artist and we had engaged their management. Upon reflection, however, I realized that it would be better to engage and empower our local artists. These are the people we spend all our time with, they have the same stories as us and speak the same language as us,” he added.

Machakaire said growing up in rural Wedza, it was always his desire to attend a live show but due to circumstances beyond his control, he was never afforded that opportunity.

This is why every year Machakaire strives to give back to the people of Hwedza by bringing to them the artists they love and yearn to see performing live.

In the line-up, there is Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, Mambo Dhuterere, Killer T, Michael Mahendere, Sulumani Chimbetu, Mathias Mhere, Mark Ngwazi,, Enzol Ishal, Dorcas Moyo, Sandra Ndebele, Poptain, Bazooker, Chillspot records, Andy Muridzo, Blessing Shumba, Jays Murabhini, Bthany Pasinawako, Kinnah, D.T Bio Mudimba, Dee Nosh and Mbira Groups.

In 2021, the government and ZIFA backed plans by Machakaire to establish a multipurpose high-performance sports complex in Wedza.

He suggested that the complex will provide the much-needed exposure to the marginalised yet talented rural folk.