WITH the ouster of Zimbabwe’s former autocratic president Robert Mugabe, whose isolationist policies had taken the country backwards by decades, an unlikely window of opportunity for diplomatic renewal was briefly and slightly opened.

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The goodwill that followed was unlikely because Mugabe got replaced by his henchmen, who had been his enforcer for his entire disastrous rule, but the international community had wearied of the Zimbabwean crisis and were ready for a small excuse to engage.
Now just a little over a year later, the window of opportunity has all but closed, with no meaningful distance covered, in the re-engagement process.

Central to the window of opportunity for re-engagement was the imminence of elections in 2018, the possibility of respect for international norms of human rights, good governance and democracy, and the hoped-for possibility of an internal political agreement.

The 2018 polls had the possibility of restoring electoral legitimacy, but that chance was squandered as the elections were held in a way that failed to meet the democratic test. All these pillars of a truly new dispensation have been abandoned in a mind-bending fashion, which was unthinkable 15 months ago.

The problem is that the re-engagement was never planned, but opportunistic and  without method. Zimbabwe appears to be reviving its old misunderstanding and tiff with the British, over the Commonwealth bid for readmission and its standoff with the US over its human rights record and restrictive measures, and, after the national shut-down protests, drew the unfavourable comment of the United Nations (UN) over the government’s brutal crackdown on citizens. 

In fact, the country risks generally reassuming its soiled name as an intolerant administration, where it comes to citizen dissent and democratic norms.
There is an inherent inconsistency in how the re-engagement itself is being pursued.

As the country is spending scarce dollars on private jets for foreign engagement trips, to countries of negligible geopolitical and diplomatic importance, it is deporting labour leaders such as International Trade Union Confederation’s (ITUC) secretary for Africa, Kwasi Adu Amankwah.

While the attempt by the government has been to separate these issues of political and civil rights and economic development, the reality is that globalisation has resulted in the interconnectedness of such issues, which do determine the country’s overall investment attractiveness.

The Zimbabwe administration would want to soothe itself in the regional countries’ so-called stance of solidarity, including within the Sadc framework, but the real appraisal of Zimbabwe by these countries is in their refusal to extend any financial assistance.
For instance, South Africa’s foreign policy after Apartheid has been guided by its economic interests, which, at the expense of sounding politically incorrect, may be served by a weaker and less economically competitive Zimbabwe, and also would not be promoted by lending money to a junk status country.

It is no secret that corporates have migrated their key offices and assets south of the Limpopo, with Zimbabwe basically becoming an extended market for South African goods and source of cheap skilled and unskilled labour. So such realities as I have explained above, where economic interests in one country primarily dictate its diplomatic relations, this can easily be veiled in political concepts such as liberation movement solidarity and quiet diplomacy.

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EDITOR — It is undeniable that the cost of living for an ordinary Zimbabwean is increasingly becoming expensive, but the latest RTGS$3 000 salary demand by Teachers’ Unions is astonishing to say the least.
I for one sympathise with every citizen of this country in such trying times where the prices of almost everything has increased while salaries have remained stagnant. These are indeed trying times but it is actually during such times when level headedness should prevail.   
We need to make meaningful demands that are informed by the government’s purse and its vision for the future. Citizens were forewarned way before the government austerity measures, that things were going to be tough but eventually they would get better. Like they say, no gem can be perfected without friction and we are feeling the heat.
No one should think that government is not privy to the plight of teachers and the generality of the populace, it really does. But presenting some astronomical demands for the cost of living adjustments helps nothing but pouring cold water on the spirit of honest bargaining. I hope some of the representatives are not claiming such amount to justify the disparities between what their executives earn and what the teachers earn.
I don’t think by tabling unimaginable figures, the teachers’ representatives can sweep under the carpet the recent revelations that they are earning huge perks. They are now just but trying to keep relevant to their legion of members who are restless after realising that they are being sold a dummy by their representatives which has seen quite a number relinquishing their membership. 
Hear me clearly, I am not clamouring for teachers not to make demands to their employer, but the demands should be realistic. Their plan B to call for another round of industrial action is even calamitous and suicidal for teachers. 
The likes of Raymond Majongwe and company will get their full salaries and leave days come month-end, but the teacher will suffer the brunt of a strike.
This does not need to be emphasised as the ghost of the last strike is already haunting those who participated. The no-work-no-pay principle still applies.
One thing that I was advised to do from my interactions with soldiers mainly was, “to read the weather”. What this means is in life we should always know where and when to strike, judging on the operational climate lest you lose out. 
This goes out to our esteemed teachers and other government employees, “read the weather!”. A drop is better for now, and you will appreciate the importance of water when your well runs dry. 
Everything having been said and done, teachers, your employer is open to a win-win dialogue rather than downing tools. This country needs every hand on deck to progress and strikes never solved anything but make a worse situation dire. 
Brightface Mutema.

EDITOR — For over a decade now Zimbabwe has managed to transfer land ownership from the few white commercial farmers who were just about 4 500 to the indigenous black farmers now numbering over 300 000.

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Zimbabweans for nearly a century were denied, by their colonial masters, opportunities to show their skills in farming enterprises as they had no land to do so. Most Zimbabweans were domiciled in infertile lands which was not suitable for farming but they had no choice as it was the land in which they were driven to. 

The colonial era saw a lot of indigenous people driven out from arable land by the white colonial masters to semi-arid and infertile areas which were not good for agriculture hence making farming a preserve for the whites only. Some few black people who wanted to try farming found the going hard as banks were also reluctant to give loans to indigenous people who had no collateral means,  as compared to some white commercial farmers who could easily secure loans.

For that reason, the land reform programme that was initiated by government more than a decade ago came as a blessing to the indigenous farmers who received that initiative with open hands.
As such the new farmers should now show the world that it was not a drama for the government to allocate them land but such a move was long overdue. 

Farmers should take farming as a business venture which can be used to sustain livelihoods of most families in the country to show the world that they have been empowered by their own government.

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GETBUCKS Microfinance Bank (Getbucks) recorded a 16 percent increase in profit to $3 million for the six months ended December 31, 2018 compared to a $2,578 million recorded in prior period.
Rungano Mbire, the microfinance institution’s chairperson, said higher revenues are expected from loans driven by a larger loan book.

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“This result was achieved through increased net income of $8,3 million from $6,4 million in the prior year. “Interest expense increased by 137 percent as the bank increased borrowings in response to higher demand for lending from customers,” he said.Borrowings increased to $20,4 million during the review period compared to a $11,5 million recorded in prior comparable period.

Mbire said the company’s loan book grew by 52 percent to $32,3 million from $21,6 million recorded in previous period attributed to growth in the productive small-to-medium enterprise (SME) loan segments and education loans. However, impairment charges rose from $0,1 million to $0,3 million giving a non-performing loan ratio of six percent.

“Cost grew by 30 percent even though inflation was 42 percent due to cost containment measures implemented by management,” Mbire said. In the period under review customer deposits went up to $8,6 million from $3,1 million in previous comparable period.
Assets went up 51 percent to $47,001 million during the review period to $31,423 million in comparable period.

GetBucks had a net equity position of $19,67 million as at December 31, 2018, which is above the minimum regulatory threshold.
“The company’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business,” GetBucks said.

GetBucks said management is still assessing the impact of central bank governor’s announcement of the introduction of an electronic currency. The funder said further price increases are expected in the country. GetBucks declared a 0,054 cents dividend per share.

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PETROTRADE acting chief executive officer Godfrey Ncube says the ISO 9001/2015 certification his company has just achieved will enhance the state-owned petroleum dealer’s capacity to become the preferred supplier of petroleum products in the country and in the region.

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Ncube made the remarks early this week after Petrotrade had transitioned from ISO 9001:2008 to the more advanced ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS). “Our thrust is to build and acquire more service stations as well growing our network through local partnerships. 

“We are also in the process of securing a strategic partner after the process was approved by the government. This is expected to strengthen our position in the industry,” said Ncube.
He added that the international certification by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe will spur on the State-owned petroleum dealer.

“The fact that we are certified as one of the internationally-compliant companies is encouraging as it gives us the confidence of knowing that we are on the right path. “There is nothing as satisfying as knowing that you are doing the right things. By the same token, there is nothing as depressing as shooting in the dark and hoping to hit the target,” said Ncube.

According to the Petrotrade boss, the economic challenges facing the country won’t be allowed to derail his company’s pursuit of excellence.

“We are very cognisance of the challenges facing the company, the industry and the country but these are not limited only to Petrotrade. As such we remain optimistic that by continuously doing the right things, we will remain relevant as a company,” the acting Petrotrade CEO said.

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National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (Nacz) has announced the list of nominees for the 18th National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) edition to be held on March 23, 2019 at Harare International Conference Centre in Harare.

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Gospel music sensation Janet Manyowa has dominated this year’s edition of Nama with three nominations in different categories.
Manyowa was nominated in outstanding music video, outstanding female musician and outstanding music album categories.
Her music video Tinomutenda Neyi was nominated together with Jah Prayzah’s Dzamutsana and Tekere from Tamy Moyo. 

Under outstanding female musician category, she is competing with Thamsanqa Moyo aka Tamy and Sandra Ndebele. 
Her album Grateful is in the same category with Ntunjambila by Majahawodwa Ndlovu aka Jeys Marabini, Tseu Tseu  by Enock Munhenga aka ExQ and Dzinosvitsa Kure by the sungura kingpin Alick Macheso.

Tamy Moyo, ExQ and Enzo Ishall have got two nominations each.
Last year was Obert Chari’s most productive years as his hit song Mebo was nominated in the outstanding song category. 
Chairperson of Nama adjudication panel Ruby Magosvongwe said a panel of independent adjudicators, guided by a selection criterion, and appointed to preside over all the submissions, engaged in a vigorous adjudication process for 10 weeks.

“The adjudication was based on submitted entries as well as those that were identified by individual and institutional monitors that were appointed to keep an eye on excelling artists throughout the year.
“The adjudicators, being seasoned and highly professional in various genres, adjudged 1 436 entries of the works produced from December 1, 2017 to November 30, 2018 that were submitted.
“Adjudicators hailed the level of originality and innovation which is one of the key aspects in the nomination criteria. For example, there was remarkable improvement in quality of films submitted,” said Magosvongwe.

He added that it was also noted that generally artists are embracing new technologies, a development that was measured through the number of entries that were submitted online. “However, adjudicators raised concerns pertaining to presentations of submitted entries. For instance, some photographs of sculptors were not clear with obstructions on their backgrounds.

“In the Film and Television category, formatting and labelling of entries was not well done. Regardless of the shortcomings, the Nama brand is consistently growing annually as justified by the increase in entries for this year’s edition.”

Some key observations by the adjudication panel include the following, among others:
n Artists and production houses rush to submit on the deadline of Nama and by so doing miss submitting critical information and materials to support the entry.
n There was remarkable increase on media platforms and channels which is a clear sign that the sector is embracing technology and moving with time.

In music, entries were on the increase with many artists producing singles and pushing for competitiveness in the sector. There was a clear upstaging of seasoned artists by unexpected names.
n Under performing arts, especially theatre and dance, a number of productions are not well packaged and thus deny adjudicators a fair assessment of the entries. Subtitling in many film products proved to be a challenge. A number of videos have producers who only focus on the music and fail to make requisite visual appeal.
 
18th Nama nominees
Spoken Word Awards

Outstanding Poet
Mercy Dhliwayo aka Extreme Sanity
Likhwa Ncube aka  Likhwa okaNcube
Beloved Maridzanere aka Beloved Poet
Special Mention
Tanaka Tshuma aka ECTS

Outstanding Comedian
Sharon Chideu aka Magi
Dumisani H. Ndlovu aka Maforty-forty
Learnmore Mwanyenyeka aka Long John

Literary Arts Awards
Outstanding First Creative Published Book
Gather the Children  by Batsirai Chigama       (Ntombekhaya Poetry)
Kwaisava Kuda Kwangu by Victor Zivanayi and Telmore Mutiwazuka (Progressive Publishers)
Ndinobvunzawo Njira Inoende KwaMakasa by Takesure Taringana (Dzekanyi Publications)

Outstanding Children’s Book
My Rights and Other Poems by Pentecost Mate (Pentolacut Publishers)
The City Girl by Elisha July and Tendai K. Rudanda (Pass-Point Publishers)

Outstanding Fiction
Itai  by Abraham Makamera (Pearl Press Media)
Mazai Emheni by Daniel Mutendi           (DanTs Media Publishing)
          
Theatre Awards
Outstanding Actor
Teddy Mangawa in Ukama
Ronald Sigeca in Zandezi
Cedric Msongelwa in Zandezi

Outstanding Actress
Heather Mlingo in Ukama
Chido Tenga in Deep Down Inside
Qeqeshiwe Mtambo in The Hostel

Outstanding Theatrical Production
Operation Restore Regasi by Charles Munganasa
Ukama by Savanna Trust
1983: The Dark Years by Adrian Moyo

Outstanding Director
Lloyd Nyikadzino for Zandezi
Everson Ndlovu for Deep Down Inside
Thulani Mbambo for The Hostel

Dance awards
Outstanding Female Dancer
Chaleen Chimara  in Iwe Neni Tinebasa
Vein N. Alfazema in Black Sheep
Michelle Msopera in Chasing Dreams

Outstanding Male Dancer
Sean Mambwere in Know Him
Devante T. Sangaza in My Journey Towards Success
Martin Chabuka  in 100% Afro

Outstanding Dance Group
Real Flex Dance Group directed by Martin Chabuka
Ji Lin Dance Group directed by Devante Tatenda Sangaza
Bolamba Performing Arts directed by Mthabisi Dube

Outstanding Choreographer
Martin Chabuka in 100% Afro
Macintosh Jerahuni & Chaleen Chimara in    Iwe Neni Tinebasa
Sean Mambwere in Know Him

Visual Arts Awards
Outstanding 2 Dimensional Work
Light Over Dark  by Cosmas Shiridzinomwa
The Demolition by John Kotze
The Patriarch (Revisited) by Percy Manyonga

 Outstanding 3 Dimensional Work
Zvirimudombo by Shelton Mubayi
Protection by Israel Israel
The Orchestic Night by Givemore Mushaya

Outstanding Mix Media Work
Man From the Thirsty Land by Collins Chitaka
The Watchman and the Fence I by Greg Shaw
Whose Memory Whose Place by Neville Sterling
 
Outstanding Exhibition
Forever Neverland  by Valerie Kabov
To My Unborn Child by  Valerie Kabov
The Grotesque by Alan Sibanda & Talent Kapadza

Film and television awards
Outstanding Actor
Patrick Muzondiwa as Tebogo in Kuchina The Genesis
Eddie Sandifolo as Clive in Bhachi
Stephen Chigorimbo as David in Ghost of Actions Past.

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NGEZI Platinum Stars coach Erol Akbay has shown faith in utility star Liberty Chakoroma by retaining him as the team captain ahead of the 2019 Castle Lager Premiership season which commences at the end of this month. 

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Chakoroma wore the armband last season leading the Mhondoro-based side to a second-place finish on the log standings behind winners FC Platinum. The Warriors international was heavily linked with a move away from the ambitious side at the beginning of the year before committing himself by extending his contract by another year at Baobab Stadium.

Akbay appears to have already been charmed by Chakoroma’s leadership qualities as he allowed him to remain with the armband. 
Chakoroma will be deputised by defender Frank Makarati while midfielder Xolisani Moyo will be the third captain. Ngezi Platinum are currently in South Africa, intensifying their pre-season preparations ahead of the new season. 

Akbay was given a reality check on the task that lies ahead of him after watching his side slumber to a 4-1 defeat in their first pre-season practice match against Absa Premiership side Bidvest Wits. 
Having failed to sustain the title challenge last season, Ngezi made it clear to Akbay, who is being assisted by Cosmas Zulu and Tendai Chikuni, to deliver the big one in only their fourth year in the top flight league. 

Akbay is, however, unfazed by the target. 
“I have to be champion (it’s) very simple in my contract there is no secret. The club is very ambitious and it’s the same with me. They said to me they want to be champions and I said okay we will go for the championship,” Akbay told the Daily News before their trip to South Africa.

“If you start with this kind of a team and you know they want something from you, if you don’t like it don’t go there and that’s why I accepted when they say we want to be champions and I said I will try to do my best. “We have good players and what we need to do is to make sure they play good football. Of course some players left and others remained but the new players and those remained have to make sure that they play football the way I want.”

Akbay is on the re-building after the Mhondoro-based side lost some of their senior players that have been the backbone of the team since their promotion to the top flight in 2016. The trio of goalkeeper Bernard Donovan, midfielder Tichaona Chipunza and striker Clive Augusto are now at Chicken Inn.

Midfielder Walter Mukanga has also left although his destination remains a mystery having been linked with Harare City and lately Democratic Republic of Congo side Lupopo FC.

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HARARE - Sports minister Kirsty Coventry has encouraged Abu Dhabi World Games-bound Special Olympics Zimbabwe (Soz) team not to be intimidated with the environment but to take pride in competing at the grand stage.

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The 16-member team made up of eight golfers, four athletics and four bocce is set to leave on Wednesday. 
The games are scheduled to run from March 14 to 21 and the team was sent off by the minister during a function hosted for them at Chapman Golf Club in Harare.

“…Allow yourself to really take in the environment and take some time to be really proud of yourselves and to pat yourselves on the back and say I have made it here, now I’m gonna give everything that I have in my race whether it’s on the athletics track or on golf course…we are extremely proud of every single one of you,” Coventry said yesterday.

“…For me being here, being a part of the team in a small way even though I can’t travel with them, I will be screaming and shouting. I’m so proud of them and it’s all about being able to show people to not being scared or afraid just because someone is different. Our differences make us stronger and they should make us even stronger as a society.”

The former swimming icon said everyone should come together to forge partnerships regardless of any ideological or physical differences in order to rebuild the country.  She was given a red Soz scarf and a baby branded T-shirt from the association as her gift for officiating at the ceremony.

Soz director, Viola Musariri said the team will be getting into their final lap in camp on Monday before their departure for Abu Dhabi.
“We are on the homestretch and we are really excited…we are all ready and the team is excited. They are going into final camp on Monday they will be together until they leave so it’s all systems go, everything is ready and we are really happy with the support that we received from the corporate sector, from our partners form the volunteers and we wish they could continue supporting Special Olympics in future,” Musariri said.

“We are very happy with the team that we are taking this time around one of the golfers is actually a nominee for the Ansa awards tonight (last night he placed third) he’s also a golf ambassador for the Soz Special Olympics 2019 World Games his name is Munyaradzi Musariri.

“Alongside him we also have Michael Mudyanadzo and Raramai Mutingondo. Michael had gold medal in 2015 as well as Munyaradzi so in golf we really looking forward to getting more medals for this particular event. In athletics we have got Shepherd Patrick he’s doing very well. 

“In bocce we have doubles teams that are going to be participating so we are really looking forward to everybody coming back with a medal because they really prepared them well, they blended well and they are excited to be going to the World Games.”
 Bocce is a competitive game of strategy, skill and finesse that is a popular feature of the Special Olympics World Games programme. 
Consisting of singles, traditional doubles and unified doubles events, bocce is a closely contested sport that first appeared on the Special Olympics World Games programme in 1991.

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HARARE - Tributes continue to pour for veteran jazz singer Dorothy Masuku who died on Saturday at the age of 83. The songstress had been suffering from complications related to hypertension after a mild stroke last year. Her family said she spent her last moments at home, surrounded by those close to her.

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Arts publicist Blessing Vava

It’s sad that we are losing legends that have helped shape our music and culture, not even a month had passed after losing Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi and Charles Mungoshi and yet again the thief called death snatched this beautiful voice and soul Auntie Dot. Instead of us mourning, we have to celebrate the life and contribution made by Dorothy Masuku, the consciousness, beautiful lyrics and rhymes she delivered through her powerful voice which remain engraved in our history. Her music cuts across borders, races, tribes and indeed Africa has lost a legend.

Social analyst Rejoice Ngwenya

Zimbabwean music lovers are facing the reality of losing the first generation musical icons. Not many are left. What we need is to complete the Museum of Performance Arts so that these institutions are not lost forever.

Jazz musician Filbert Marova

I had the privilege to play piano for Auntie Dot each time she came to Zimbabwe on tour in the mid to late 90s. She knew exactly what she wanted one to play when it came to her music. She was an exceptionally gifted singer whose shoes are way too big for anyone to fit in. You fought a good fight Auntie Dot. Rest in peace!

PR practitioner Munya Simango

The grand damme and trailblazer of Zimbabwean music has gone. This is a sad time for us. She will always be remembered for being the role model to the many generations of women who followed her lead to venture into music. I am grateful for the gift of music that she left us.

Broadcaster Lovemore Banda

Once again we lose a personality and once again we are making more noise about them the departed than we did when they were part of us. We didn't answer him when he was alive and so Tuku's question still stands today: 'Do you have to die to be a hero?' Zimbabwe needs to give an answer to that question.

Lawyer and politician Obert Gutu

The late Dorothy Masuku, was a consummate and sanguine Afro-Jazz maestro who was blessed with a soulful voice that could easily touch the very centre of people's hearts. She was not only a beauty queen in her prime as she was crowned Miss Mzilikazi in Bulawayo in 1953, but she was also a talented composer and singer. We can never forget the legendary song Pata Pata that was even made more popular after the late Miriam Makeba's rendition of the same song was released. Aunite Dot, as she was fondly called, will be remembered as one of Africa's greatest songstresses. On stage she was not only elegant and flamboyant, but she was also funny and hilarious. She was an artist from the top drawer. She will be sadly and sorely missed. May her departed soul rest in power!

Musician Clive Malunga

Our dear sister sang in Shona, Ndebele and English. She really touched the hearts of many. She also appealed to all age groups. She was a darling when she was on stage; she had all the techniques to capture her audience. She introduced me to Don Laka and Jonasi Gwangwa, when I went to South Africa, to join Tusk Records, a subsidiary of Gallo Records. She played a very big part, by showing me where to go and which recording company to join. It was a sister brother affair.

Political analyst Maxwell Saungweme

She is yet another legend who has gone. With over 40 years of a flourishing music career, she will be remembered for her songs against Apartheid injustice and jazzy fusions. She joins departed stars like Hugh Masekela, Lucky Dube and Oliver Mtukudzi. Africa is poorer without her.

Singer and sculptor Bryn Taurai Mteki

We mourn the death of a Music Giant yet another national icon in form of a Heroin Auntie Dot as I used call her, this I say is a major blow to our music industry coming so soon after the passing of the great Samanyanga, Oliver Tuku Mtukudzi , this is so sad all our seniors whom we as musicians looked up to are departing leaving a big void which irreplaceable.

Takemore Mazuruse

Auntie Dotie was no commoner. She was a musician of note and not even the imposed African political boundaries could deter her sound and hard hitting message in the pre-independence era. Not only was she revered in Zimbabwe and South Africa but globally thanks to her rich sound and professional touch. An amazing performer and committed proponent of the African Renaissance, her music brought her some politically motivated troubles from the rulers of the times but it played a big role in awakening our people to the possibilities of self-rule. Her departure certainly leaves us a lot poorer but we are inspired by her attributes and influence. Africa has indeed lost a daughter and we commiserate with her family and loved ones. Her milestones over time certainly prove our mantra that where excellence and productivity are put to good use, success comes in.

Media practitioner Nigel Nyamutumbu

The creative and music industry has once again been robbed of a legend. Auntie Dot was a gentle giant, a human rights defender and a voice of reason. She was a humble character, who could relate to everyone. Her music inspired black consciousness and would touch hearts. The current crop of musicians has a lot to learn from the illustrious careers of these legends. May her soul rest in peace!

Arts promoter Biggie Chinoperekwei

I remember in 2011 when I was awarded the Arts Promoter of the Year at the National Merit Awards (NAMA) and had a rare encounter with Auntie Dot who was to present me with the gong. She gave me some words of advice on the promotion of the arts, especially the need to nurture young talents. She said there was nothing more rewarding than to invest in young talents and affording them the platform to perform and shine. As I heard about her passing on, I could see her bright face and hear her words of wisdom which she gave me on that day. Today I still cherish that encounter and the award she presented to me. I always endeavour to follow through her advice.

Politician Harry Peter Wilson

We lost a true gallant leader of world of music. We mourn a dear legend we lived with and loved her music expression which was true isiNdebele . I still have memories of a concert she held at White City stadium where she shared the staged with Brenda Fassie, both were great players.  We ask the people of the South to mourn with us and remember our beautiful sister. We in Bulawayo are at a loss of words.

Writer Virginia Phiri

Last memories of you are of your great performance at Orlando Stadium, South Africa on 14 April 2018 clad in blue when I attended the memorial of Winnie Mandela.

Media practitioner Suzan Makore

She is an icon and was instrumental in mentoring many young women across the southern African region. Aunty Dot is a role model for many women and an embodiment of hard work and commitmen

Nhimbe Trust, Bluez Café mourn ‘Auntie Dot’

NHIMBE Trust and Bluez Café joined people of Bulawayo and the world in mourning the passing of Dorothy Masuku, fondly known as ‘Auntie Dot’, of humble beginnings in this her birthplace of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, who left in her youth to pursue education and music in South Africa, followed by a dazzling career over six decades, in which she reached the world.

She was performing from the age of 19.  She passed away aged 83 on 23 February 2019.  Her song Dr Malan was banned. She lived in exile for 31 years until Zimbabwean Independence, working hard.  She travelled the globe from Johannesburg to New York and Lusaka to London, and was loved and celebrated by jazz lovers all over the world. 

On April 27 2017, at the age of 81, she performed with the Jazz Epistles, featuring famed South African jazz pianist Abdullah Ibrahim & the band Ekaya at a concert at ‘The Town Hall’ in New York City. 

“…octogenarian vocalist Dorothy Masuku took to the stage to open the show with some help from a band that included bass icon Bakithi Kumalo. Masuku—one of the most influential South African voices of her generation, and a woman who spent three decades in exile because she dared to address injustice in her music and sing to the truth—lit up the stage with her positivity and uplifting spirit. … Masuku delivered one passionate performance after another, warming up and winning over the crowd.”-

She was hugely admired and respected by music-lovers and musicians alike.  Zimbabwe heaved a national sigh and tug of the heart at the news of her passing, as memories and tributes poured in.   

Dorothy Masuku may be gone from us but will never be forgotten.  Her legacy has already borne fruit and continues in the women she inspired through her life.  Also out of Bulawayo and following in her footsteps to reach the world, are a number of gifted women artists of a proud Ndebele background who have followed her lead to work hard and grow - Busi Ncube now in Norway for many years (performing and recording), Dudu Manhenga (performing, teaching, pastoring) and Edith Katiji (performing and musicians union chair) in Harare and also travelling abroad; and others.  The last few years have seen the emergence of the stunning five-member acapella group Nobuntu, now touring the world.

Nhimbe Trust programmes for women in the arts follow this proud example, and along with the riveting theatre production ‘Blood Tongue – The Musical’ by Nhimbe’s Women in Theatre & Television programme which toured last year, Nhimbe in partnership with veteran musician John Gara nurtured the 6-member group Afro Queens since 2016, providing space, music equipment and the teaching of instruments, musicianship and stagecraft.  They have already performed at the opening of Bluez Café in 2016, Intwasa Arts Festival twice since 2017, and other local shows, and are currently in the studio on a recording due to be released later in the year.

The Legacy of Auntie Dot continues.  May she now rest in peace!

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HARARE - Recent mandatory jail sentences of rioters which range from one year to 5 years are stiffer compared to those imposed in Smith’s regime, lawyers and analysts contend.

The harsh sentences being passed by the courts on suspected rioters of the 14 January three-day stay away strike called by labour unions after President Emmerson Mnangagwa raised fuel prices by 150 percent  which led to street violence and looting.  

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There is fear of possible links between an alleged militarised prosecution and the sentences as most of the more than 1000 people were unlawfully arrested mainly from their homes by security agents some of whom have no powers to arrest.

Recently, hundreds of Zimbabwean lawyers marched in the capital to demand justice for people detained in jail and others facing fast-track trials.

Rights lawyer Jeremiah Bamu who has handled a series of the public violence cases since former President Mugabe era said the sentences being induced were even stiffer compared to those imposed in Smith’s regime.

“In a 1962 public violence case, R vs Mashotonga held by the Southern Rhodesian Triangle magistrates court the compound employees had damaged property during a riot and the Federal Supreme Court sentenced them to six months imprisonment with hard labour.

“Another one, R vs Libele of 1957 two accused persons who were first offenders were convicted of public violence. They were sentenced to three months imprisonment with hard labour and to receive six cuts with a cane

“…now current sentencing trends are out of odds with punishments in similar cases. What is disturbing is that a more democratic and independent Zimbabwe is giving stiffer sentences, more harsh than those imposed in colonial Rhodesia,” Bamu said.

Political analyst Maxwell Saungweme said one would be excused to draw possible links between an alleged militarised prosecution and the sentences. “We once again see here the State politicising the judiciary for political ends. The sentences are ridiculous, heavy handed, excessive and political.

“We have not heard about the arrest and sentencing of soldiers who killed civilians on August 1 or during the time the protests happened. This tells you it’s all politics and no justice, no legality,” said Saungweme.

Seasoned lawyer Alec Muchadehama said due process was not followed in the public violence cases and the manner of arrests in itself is objectionable.

Muchadehama said in the court it is now emerging that these protesters were unlawfully arrested mainly from their homes by security agents comprising soldiers, police and the Central Intelligence Organisation some of whom have no powers to arrest.

“Arrests were dragnet in violation of constitutional provisions that provide that a person must be promptly advised of their arrest. When they were arraigned before the courts the Prosecution immediately requested to have them tried and courts acceded to that prejudicing them the opportunity to prepare.

“They used a blanket approach to the trials and convictions were sustained on unreasonable grounds. This has resultantly clogged the courts because convictions are now being challenged through appeals,” said Muchadehama.

Political analyst MacDonald Lewanika said the indiscriminate nature of the sentences and fast track nature in which some of cases were conducted shows that rather than justice, the state is more intent to send a lesson.

“In doing so the trial processes have been mostly irregular and borderline illegal with some suggestions of collusion between the courts, the police and prosecution services, as well as state witnesses coaching. As a result, most of this punishment does not fit the crimes, with some of the sentences being gross miscarriages of justice,” said Lewanika.

Human rights lawyer Marufu Mandevere said we have seen a serious shift in the manner that prosecutions have been done with respect to the public violence cases. “The cases were fast tracked with shoddy investigations but still matters were allowed to go into court.”

Social analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said he is a liberal property rights advocate who condemns all forms of property violations. “But our judiciary is compromised. At least 4500 white citizens had their properties plundered but not a single criminal was arrested. This is not justice but political revenge. A custodial sentence is malicious and political. They should be fined and released immediately.”

Lawyer and politician Obert Gutu said a judicial officer is normally guided by the gravity of the offence as well as the accused's mitigating circumstances when handing down an appropriate sentence.

“In certain statutory offences, the law stipulates the minimum sentence that has to be handed down on a convicted offender, so in those type of cases, the judicial officer's hands are tied unless there are special circumstances that warrant the imposition of a lesser sentence.

“I haven't carried out a comprehensive study to ascertain the severity of the sentences that are being imposed on convicted protesters country wide. However, in the event that the convicted protesters' lawyers feel that the sentences being imposed are disproportionate and that they induce a sense of shock and outrage, the option of an appeal against both conviction and sentence or against sentence only, is always available,” said Gutu.

He added that as an experienced lawyer himself “I am unable to simply condemn the severity of the sentences that are being imposed against convicted protesters without satisfying myself, through a perusal of the relevant court records, that there has been a gross miscarriage of justice.”

Political analyst Vivid Gwede said these sentences are looking like diktats rather that products of a disinterested and impartial justice system.

“One begins to think that the ones being convicted are being used as examples, which is not what the law is designed for or should do.

“What has raised eyebrows is the harshness of the sentences, ranging up to five years, which probably tie in with utterances from the political leadership. There is a perception that we are witnessing political trials,” said Gwede.

Social analyst Tawanda Chimhini said we have a recent constitutional judgement that orders the disengagement of the services of security officers from the National Prosecution Authority.

“This decision by the court is quite revealing in the wake of alleged militarisation of key state institutions.

“Now in relation to the unusually harsh sentences being given to persons found guilty of crimes linked to the January protests, one would be excused to draw possible links between an alleged militarised prosecution and the sentences. One could also draw attention to complaints by the Zimbabwe Law Society over the fast tracking of cases associated with the January protests. All these developments are not isolated and raise a concern around access and delivery of justice,” said Chimhini.

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HARARE - The  reported anger by captains of industry when President Emmerson Mnangagwa and finance minister Mthuli Ncube snubbed the recent CEO Africa Roundtable meeting in Victoria Falls is understandable as this was their only opportunity to showcase the vital role played by the private sector in fostering growth across the continent.

Mnangagwa and more than 500 participants, including some 400 CEOs from across the African continent, were expected to attend the convention at which the President was the guest of honour.

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He and Mtuli however failed to attend the 6th edition of the CEO Africa Roundtable which has according to organisers become one of the most important events in the African business calendar, enabling participants to exchange their views and opinions on the issues affecting the economic development of the continent's companies, in a high-quality international setting that is ideal for conducting business meetings.

Politician and lawyer Obert Gutu said it is very unfortunate that the President and other high ranking government officials failed to address the CEO Africa round table.

“This would have afforded senior government officials to mix and mingle with captains of industry and business and also get to know what they have got to say regarding the socio-economic trajectory that government has to take as it seeks to reboot Zimbabwe's comatose economy.

“May be they have got their own reasons for missing such an important interface with business leaders,” said Gutu.

Analyst Vivid Gwede said it doesn't make sense that we are eager to address business people as far as Davos in Switzerland and fail to turn up at business forums in our own country.

“One wonders whether what motivate us are the travels rather than the opportunities. What is more important in the so-called 'Thank you rallies' or working on what people promised in the manifestoes?

“I wouldn't know why the key government officials were not there, they may answer Zimbabweans for themselves. But the picture we portray is not good,” said Gwede.

Social analyst Rashweat Mukundu believes the snub is a crisis of leadership and failure to prioritise key national dialogues.

“The snubbing is yet another indication that the leadership values events and platforms they have control over and these tend to be political while snubbing critical events that assist in national development.

“Another reason is that the organisers were broad in their invitations including opposition figures and the snubbing may as well show an aversion towards dialogue and engagement with the opposition,” said Mukundu

Political analyst Piers Pigou said their failure to participate certainly sends the wrong signal and feeds into a growing uncertainty about the reform trajectory.

“This comes on top of reported differences between (finance minister Mthuli) Ncube and RBZ governor (Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor John) Mangudya over the direction, timing and sequencing of monetary policy, resulting in the delay releasing the MPS.

“It is critical for the government of Zimbabwe to send a clear message on these issues,” said Pigou.

Social analyst Lenox Mhlanga said while he will not speculate as to why they subbed the event, be believes it was a lost opportunity to engage CEOs on neutral territory, given the issues that business have to grapple with in a challenged economy like ours.

“There is little point in looking for investment outside the country when the conditions for local business remain depressed. My suggestion is that of fixing things at home, by giving local business leaders the confidence that the President is fighting in their corner first,” said Mhlanga.

Harare Resident Trust director Precious Shumba said Mnangagwa is uncomfortable participating in events organised by other stakeholders as he is afraid to answer questions directly put to him by citizens and their representative bodies.

“When he assumed the Presidency following the ouster of former President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, the world and Zimbabweans largely celebrated the smooth transition which came with the help of the military. There was unprecedented goodwill towards Mnangagwa and his government.

“However, over time, the President has been confirming widely held views of him as a hardliner and not sophisticated as a President. The goodwill of different interested stakeholders is quickly disappearing, and one day too soon he will be left on his own without too many friends to back him in his economic initiatives.

“The snubbing of the conference by the captains of industry is testimony that the President wants total control, but he cannot get it as long as he believes that all stakeholders in Zimbabwe must dance to his tune because he is the President.”

Shumba said Mnangagwa needs to humble himself and evaluate where the county stands in relation to other nations, and where he stands in terms of security of his own tenure as both the head of State and Government and the leader of Zanu PF.

“The Finance and Economic Development and the Commerce and Industry Ministers are critical stakeholders who should have joined the chief executive officers at this conference so that there is enhancement of interaction and exchange of ideas on how to achieve the President's 2030 Vision of a middle-income country.

“If they are dreaming of industrialising and modernising Zimbabwe, they have to put their shoulders to the wheel and complement the efforts of all stakeholders so that there is harmony in the implementation of Government programming,” said Shumba.

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Leadership is an art of substantively cultivating an environment which brings out the best in order to achieve the set goals of any establishment.

We can derive this lesson from our country's most beloved touristic destination, the Victoria Falls; the great waterfall ‘discovered’ by Scottish missionary, David Livingston in 1855.

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True leadership is like that rock that forms the waterfalls, a calibre of leaders that have unmistakable marks of integrity; leaders that never falter in their focus.

The rock has stood the test of time for centuries, standing firm against huge torrents of flowing water but has remained intact.

Such leaders who remain serene and resolute in the face of adversity are worth the trust by those they lead and no doubt leave indelible marks that last for generations even when they are long gone.

Their leadership qualities can be illustrated as follows:

True leaders produce notable results that even impress new comers or visitors to their environment, they are attached like the great waterfall which attracted a foreigner who henceforth called the falls by a royal name, Victoria after the then British queen at the time.

Good leaders take pride not in their status but their impact in the society. Today very few visitors the Victoria Falls to try to understand the mystery about the strength of the rock that forms the waterfalls but many come to witness its result, the wonder that even exists on the World Heritage list today.

Real leaders nurture a spirit of peace and tranquillity in their spheres of influence. The idyllic view of the falls has made it very touristic and all visitors both local and international go there extending an olive branch of peace and tranquillity to whomever they meet and interact with at the falls. Even after a hectic time of today's life pressures, one can think of a place like Victoria Falls to unwind, to enjoy the peace that the place offers.

Good leaders influence those in their vicinity to do good works. The rising mist formed by the water falling from the hard rock onto the plunge pool waters the vegetation around the falls. This creates an evergreen landscape that really makes the view of the falls a breath-taking phenomenal wonder.

True leaders are an epitome of unity. The activities in and around Victoria Falls have strengthened the bilateral ties between Zimbabwe and Zambia ever since the two countries assumed their republican statuses.

In view of the above, good leadership impacts generations positively and in essence time is the truest test of every leadership.

May God grant us leadership qualities that resemble the rock that makes the Victoria Falls, a wonder that will continue to amaze future generations and bring happiness!

And it is also because of that amazing rock that people from all over the world visit the majestic falls.

Equally we dream of a Zimbabwe with a strong foundation and economic pillars that are as concrete as the Vic Falls rock; a Zimbabwe which business people from all over the world will converge and invest because of its solidness.

God did not only choose Zimbabwe to house the Vic Falls without purpose and as citizens we need to draw lessons from the wonder and apply them in our day to day lives!

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HARARE - The National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness (NFZBBF) has managed to achieve considerable successes in recent years. 

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Among their success stories is the participation of local athletes on the international scene where they have held their own against strong competition. 

Although a lot of ground seems to have been covered in the local bodybuilding and fitness industry, athlete retention remains the association’s big challenge. 

As the federation prepares for this year’s Novice Championships, we sat down with NFZBBF secretary-general, Quiet Shangai to get to the bottom of the problem. Below are excerpts from the interview:

Q: I understand Novice Zimbabwe is around the corner. What are your expectations? 

A: As usual we expect to recruit a number of athletes as well as other key players like judges, volunteers etc.

Q: Over the years can you say that the federation has done enough with regards to athletes’ recruitment?

A: Yes. Novice has been doing very well as an event but in terms of retaining those athletes for national events, things are not going according to plan. Retaining athletes is a big challenge.

Q: How have you performed with regards to Novice Zimbabwe?

A: If you take a look there is an increase regarding athletes and audience. However, it is the senior men divisions especially the Men’s Physique category which is doing very well at least regarding Novice Zimbabwe.

Q: You highlighted that retaining those athletes is a bit of a challenge. Can you elaborate further?

A: Our goal is to have 90 percent of these athletes doing other events rated national and/or provincial. This is not happening. 

The following data illustrate that not all athletes doing Novice are considering progressing whilst the retention regarding other shows is not as expected. 

Naturally around 120 athletes should have done the Nationals in 2017 and the number could have risen to 160 in 2018. 2019 should be targeting around 200 athletes.

Q: What do you think are the major challenges or factors leading to numbers going down especially at other events other than Novice?

A: There are a number of factors such as the following:

n Retirement. Athletes retire due to various factors (age, work commitments, education, marriage, etc.).

n The sport is expensive; hence very few athletes are able to take to the stage every other season.

n Disgruntlement. Some people do not take defeat easily. They easily get demoralised

n Misunderstanding with regards to how the stage should be approached. This can lead to athletes quitting the sport especially novices.

Q: How do you intend to ensure that most athletes are retained?

A: There are two key strategies targeting the ageing ones and those who are still young. For those ageing we introduced the Masters divisions meant to keep them on stage as they compete with their age mates. 

For those still young we created four classes and are working on a paper to identify their needs and expectations so that we can improve in that regards. We have also introduced categories to try and give every athlete an opportunity to showcase a stage worthy physique.

Q: Can you elaborate on these classes?

A: We have developed four classes namely freshmen/novices, ordinary amateurs, premier amateurs and professionals. 

Professionals will not affect participation at this level but will affect our key performance indicator regarding active professional athletes. Novices are those athletes who have never competed before. 

They expect the federation to afford them an opportunity to compete on their own and learn at the same time. 

They want to understand the sports protocol with regards to bodybuilding and also career progression opportunities available. 

In view of that, the federation should model Novice Zimbabwe with that in mind; hence pre, during and post novice activities must capacitate these athletes. 

Ordinary amateurs are those athletes who are not Novices but are still to develop physiques which are not possibly ready to do damage at regional or international shows rated amateur. 

They need more stage time and education. It is imperative for the system to afford them competition opportunities for example provincial shows. 

Premier amateurs are those athletes who are ready for international and regional shows rated amateur. 

They are good enough to turn professional and are expected to do damage at the Nationals. 

They need exposure to corporates so that they get endorsements and sponsorship. 

As for professional athletes, the Federation should continuously identify professional competitions where these athletes can compete. 

The Federation should also identify competitions where these athletes can guest pose. Furthermore, the Federation should expose these athletes to corporates. Career opportunities such as partnerships in various sectors of the fitness industry should be afforded to these athletes. 

Q: How have you been hosting events? What are your targets this season? 

 A: The number of district shows has gone up and we are very happy. Hopefully in 2019 we will have around 10 district shows. District shows are very important. George Munyoro, Claudius Phiri, Tendayi Chaipa, etc came through district systems. 

We are also expecting to host at least three provincial shows in Harare, Bulawayo, Midlands and Manicaland. 

These provinces which house the four major cities should at least host a provincial show each. 

We are likely to maintain our shows rated national or even combine some to ensure that standards are maintained. 

A show rated national should look like one.

Although he now resides over 12 000 kilometres away in the United Kingdom, Maxwell “MaRhino” Dube, pictured, still follows his beloved Chapungu United with keen interest. 

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It pains Dube to see his former side always fighting relegation when in fact Waru Waru has the potential to fight for honours.

During Dube’s time at the Gweru-based side, Chapungu used to be a formidable team in the late 90s and early 2000s. 

At the height of his playing days, Dube was crowned the 2001 Soccer Star of the Year after an incredible season with the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ)-owned side. 

But in recent years, Chapungu have suffered at least two relegations and for the past three seasons, their Premiership status was only being secured in the dying stages of the campaign. 

Dube believes Chapungu need to heavily invest in junior development in order to be competitive in the Castle Lager Premiership.

Speaking to the Daily News on Sunday from his Leicester base in the UK, the former Warriors forward expressed his undying love for Chapungu but said he is worried at the way the club’s fortunes continue to plummet.

“Chapungu is where my legacy is so I always get worried when the team loses matches,” he said. 

“I do follow the local league from now and then; I always keep in touch with guys like Phillip Marufu and they always keep me posted about news to do with the team and it’s worrying when the results are bad.” 

Chapungu is one of the oldest teams in the Premiership together with Dynamos, CAPS United, Highlanders and returnees Hwange.

The club has failed to assert itself in the local league often times fighting relegation each season, and in the last five seasons, the side’s best finish has been a 9th position in 2015.

Waru Waru was this week named together with FC Platinum, Harare City and Chicken Inn as the only four teams that failed to meet the February 22 transfer deadline for player registration set by the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

The club’s pre-season has been shambolic with head coach Rodwell Dhlakama away in Eswatini reportedly sorting out personal issues.

Their recruitment has been in quandary with only Gracious Muleya and Tinashe Balazaki being the only additions, while the side has had to rely on loan returnees such as strikers Patrick Khumbula and Tineyi Chitora.

The AFZ side lost promising striker Clive Rupiya to Harare giants CAPS United and veteran midfielder James Jam to top flight debutants TelOne FC.

Dube opines that the club needs to return to its junior policy because it does not have the financial muscle to compete on the transfer market for the best players. 

“It will be hard for Chapungu to win trophies because they do not have the foundation of football that is the junior policy,” he said.

“They rely on trials and offer players jobs in the Air Force.

“The club needs to put more funding on the grassroots level and appoint qualified coaches to develop talent that is there in the Gweru community,” he said.

The former Chapungu star player reminisces about his debut for Waru Waru as a fresh-faced teenager at a packed Rufaro Stadium against Dynamos 26 years ago.

“My debut is one match I will never forget, it was a big game considering my age, I was still doing my “O” Levels at Ascot High in 1993 and it was a match against Dynamos at a packed Rufaro,” he recalled. 

“The nerves got to me but it was one of my best games and it was such an honour to play against such greats as Francis Shonhai, and Vitalis Takawira.”

Dube would go on to have a glittering career that took him to Hellenics FC and FC Fortune in South Africa and is a cult hero at his boyhood club Chapungu, he also represented the Warriors with aplomb.

As a player who was given a chance as a teenager, Dube is also having a hand in nurturing talent in his home town Gweru where he has set up the MaRhino 7 Juniors FC.

“My passion is on junior development that is why I have MaRhino 7 Juniors Football Club back in  Gweru, as the director of the club my dream is to have few players  come out of the community  and play in Europe,” he said. 

“There is a lot of talent being put to waste and I wish to make my dreams come true.

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HARARE - With less than 27 days before the 2019 Castle Lager Premiership season commences, top flight teams have moved a gear up as they intensify their preparations. 

Most clubs have been very active on the transfer market as they seek to strengthen their squads ahead of the new campaign which is set to commence on March 30. Clubs have since submitted their provisional squads to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) for the processing of players’ licences ahead of the transfer deadline on March 31.

Reigning champions FC Platinum are probably the best prepared team due to their participation in the African Champions League which made them to assemble a relatively strong side capable of challenging for a third straight title. 

On paper, FC Platinum appears the strongest side in the league as compared to the majority of the teams ahead of the new season. 

On top of an already established squad, Norman Mapeza added utility player Godknows Murwira from Ngezi Platinum Stars, Perfect Chikwende from Bulawayo Chiefs as well as Lameck Nhamo, who signed from Triangle United.

Murwira, who can play as a defender or attacking midfielder and made it onto the 2018 Soccer Stars of the Year list, will with no doubt give Mapeza more options while Nhamo could also be an answer to Platinum’s woes in front of goal. 

Scoring has been Platinum’s biggest challenge as evidenced in the Champions League where they remain the only side out of the 16 teams in the tournament that is yet to find target in their group after four matches to sit at the bottom with a single point.

Should Nhamo emulate the same form that saw him finish last season with 15 goals — two behind eventual Top Goalscorer of the Year Rodwell Chinyengetere — there is no doubt he will be a menace to a lot of teams in the league.  

With two matches left in their group in the Champions League, the platinum miners are already out of contention for the knockout stages but Mapeza is now desperate to use those matches to fine tune his squad for the upcoming season.

“Our objective remains the same to win each and every game we play. We might be out of reckoning for the knockout stages of the Champions League but we want to try and wrap up on a winning note,” Mapeza said recently.

“For us it’s no longer just about the champions league but also preparing for the new season. We are using the opportunity to try different combinations while working on our shortcomings. 

“There is no better way to prepare for the new season like playing against such teams like Pirates and Esperance.”

“This campaign has been an eye opener for us, it was a learning experience for everyone associated with the club. We hope to come back better next time. We now know what is needed at this level of the game and we hope to improve next time.”

Pure Platinum Play will play Pirates in South Africa next week before completing their group games with a date against Esperance shorty before the Zimbabwe season kicks off. 

This means the Zvishavane-based side will be match fit and ready to roll on the domestic scene while other teams will need a bit of weeks before hitting top gear. 

After finishing second last year, Ngezi Platinum Stars are not leaving any stone unturned in their bid to win this year’s title. 

The Mhondoro-based side started by bringing in Erol Akbay as the new coach to succeed Tonderai Ndiraya.

Ndiraya was sacked by the Zimplats-owned side last season with only five games to go with the team in second place and only five points behind eventual champions FC Platinum.

Madamburo went on to finish the season in the same position but some 13 points behind Pure Platinum Play with Clifton Kadurira in temporary charge.

However, towards the end of last year, Ngezi Platinum announced they had appointed Akbay to take charge on a permanent basis.

The Dutchman’s backroom staff is made up of his former assistant at Highlanders Cosmas “Tsano” Zulu and former Chapungu and Shabanie Mine coach Tendai Chikuni. 

The brief from the Ngezi Platinum hierarchy is very clear; the club has demanded the Dutchman to deliver the elusive title in only their fourth season in the top flight.   

They are currently in South Africa where they have lined up a number of friendly matches. 

They played their first practice match which saw them lose 4 -1 to Bidvest Wits which probably reminded Akbay of the amount of work he has at hand. 

“. . . it’s work in progress and there is still a lot which needs to be done. Of course the combinations are coming slowly and hopefully by the time we start the season we will be up there,” Akbay said after the defeat to Wits. 

Dynamos is one of the teams that has also been busy on the market. 

It’s a huge task for their coach Lloyd Chigowe to assemble a competitive squad considering that the club lost at least three quarters of their playing staff from last season.

DeMbare had a poor 2018 campaign in which they flirted with relegation for most periods before finally securing their Premiership status with three games to go. 

In the end, Chigowe’s side finished in 11th place some 36 points behind back-to-back champions FC Platinum. 

They are now desperate to improve this year with Edward Sadomba leading a cast of new players that also includes exciting Aces Youth Soccer Academy product Junior Selemani and former CAPS United striker Amon Kambanje.

Attacking linkman Jerome Nyateme, Congolese dribbler Ngandu Mankala and former Nichrut right back Joseph Ali Maliselo are also some of the new faces at the Glamour Boys.

Defender Munyaradzi Mawadza who joined from Division One side Beta XI and Aces Academy product Emmanuel Jalaya are also some of the players expected to shine for Dynamos this season. 

The Glamour Boys have since lined up a tour of Malawi and South Africa to fine tune their team. 

Their neighbours CAPS United are also eager to establish a competitive unit following an indifferent 2018 season. 

Makepekepe finished last season in a lowly eighth place on the log, a massive 30 points behind back-to-back champions FC Platinum.

United were actually closer to the relegation zone than they were challenging for the title last season. 

At the end of last season, United showed the exit door to a number of their senior players who were deemed excess baggage while signing some exciting talent.

They have since re-signed Phineas Bhamusi following a successful year with Triangle. The club also completed the signing of winger Gabriel Nyoni and striker Newman Sianchali from Highlanders. 

Midfielder Ronald Chitiyo, who did not kick a ball for the whole of 2018, has also recovered from a knee injury and will probably be like a new signing for United after the long lay-off.

United have also added striker Clive Rupiya from Chapungu while midfielder Pride Zivengwa was signed from newly-promoted Gweru-based side TelOne FC. 

The club also managed to retain the services of midfielder Joel Ngodzo despite interest from various other clubs.

Their coach Lloyd Chitembwe is now working on the tactics and combinations ahead of the start of the season with a number of friendly matches being lined up. It is the same story for almost all the PSL teams as they move to fine-tune their teams ahead of the new season. 

The Daily News on Sunday’s Assistant Editor Maxwell Sibanda caught up with different personalities to find out what books they are reading or they have finished reading.

Writer Virginia Phiri

I am reading Visionary Africa the English version in which I was commissioned to portray Prof Wangari Maathai the first Black Woman Nobel Prize winner. In the same book are the likes of Kwame Norma, Mariama Aba, Patrice Lumumba, Oliver Thambo, Almicah Cabral, Angeline Kamba and many others. 

The book has just been published. The German version was published in 2014. My own book Grey Angels is also out.

Political analyst Piers Pigou

I am reading Untangled by Lisa Damour; guiding teenage girls through the seven transitions into adulthood; also Spies in the Congo by Susan Williams.

Politician and lawyer Obert Gutu

Currently, I’m reading Che Guevara a Biography written by Richard L Harris. Che Guevara, according to Time magazine was one of the 100 most influential people of the 20th century. The revolutionary, anti-imperialist ideals he lived and died for now appeal to a new generation of 21st century men and women. 

Reading this book has re-activated and re-ignited the Pan-Africanist in me. I now fully appreciate the evil and subtle machinations of neo-colonialism and neo-imperialism on the global political and socio-economic architecture.

Filmmaker Elton Mjanana

I have been reading Born A Crime by Trevor Noah. It is a biographical account of his birth to a black mother and a white father during Apartheid South Africa. 

He is very vivid in his account and shows real love and admiration for his mother who is clearly his hero in his life and played a huge part in his success so far in his life in general and career in particular. The book is a very funny and light read — true to Trevor’s witty ability to laugh at himself and his circumstances through his medium of comedy.

Poet Barbra Breeze

I have been reading Haruki Murakami’s Kafka on the Shore. It is a book that blends Japanese mythology into present day reality. The book documents the experiences of one runaway boy named Kafka who goes in search of his mother and sister and an old man who has the ability to talk to cats. Prone to the writer’s nature, reality and dreams are hard to tell apart in this book and his characters find themselves on a journey to rediscover who they are and where they belong.

PR practitioner Munya Simango

I am reading The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism, a 2007 book by the Canadian author and social activist Naomi Klein. 

In the book, Klein argues that neoliberal free market policies (as advocated by the economist Milton Friedman) have risen to prominence in some developed countries because of a deliberate strategy of “shock therapy”. This centres on the exploitation of national crises to push through controversial policies while citizens are too emotionally and physically distracted by disasters or upheavals to mount an effective resistance.

The book suggests that some man-made events such as the Iraq War were undertaken with the intention of pushing through such unpopular policies in their wake. In the book, Klein argues that austerity or Esap is not a pro-poor policy in that it impoverishes them further. 

Remember how Zimbabwe suffered after the introduction of Esap? In fact the country never recovered from that experiment; and yet now the current government has announced part 2 of the deadly programme.

Journalist Tawanda Mudzonga

I just finished reading The Death of Rex Nhongo by CB George.

Media practitioner Tabani Moyo

I’m reading Dang Xiaoping and the Transformation of China. The book was written by Ezra Vogel. No one in the twentieth century had a greater impact on world history than Deng Xiaoping. 

And no scholar is better qualified than Ezra Vogel to disentangle the contradictions embodied in the life and legacy of China’s boldest strategist--the pragmatic, disciplined force behind China’s radical economic, technological, and social transformation. Vogel, a Harvard professor who has bounced between interests in China and Japan for all of his professional life, picked one man on whom to centre his tale: Deng Xiaoping (1904-1997), the communist leader who left the Sichuan countryside for France when he was 16. 

While Deng might have been tiny (he stood 4-foot-11), this book is massive, Yao Ming-big — the text alone runs to 714 pages. His main argument is that Deng deserves a central place in the pantheon of 20th-century leaders. For he not only launched China’s market-oriented economic reforms but also accomplished something that had eluded Chinese leaders for almost two centuries: the transformation of the world’s oldest civilisation into a modern nation. The book outlines in refined detail how visionary leadership has the power to build enduring and transformational ideas.

Social analyst Rashweat Mukundu

I am reading Claude Ake’s The feasibility of democracy in Africa. Ake explores the challenges of democracy on post-colonial Africa and posits that Africa needs a second liberation or independence from reactionary post-colonial governments that have simply appropriated the same powers as the colonial governments and fail to meet the aspirations of the majority. 

He argues that democracy has been trivialised into electoral rituals which those in power abuse to legitimise this stay on power.

Social analyst Lenox Mlanga

I have just finished reading Bob Marley The Untold Story by Chris Salewicz. It’s a definitive account of the late great king of reggae. The book, based on the time the writer spent time with the singer and interviews with people surrounding him, fills in a lot of gaps about one of the Third World’s greatest heroes. 

It also throws light on the lives of other great reggae artists and producers of the time, and shows how influential Bob Marley was to the genre, much more than people realise. I am now reading an all-time classic of African History, a biography of Shaka Zulu, founder of the Zulu nation by E A Ritter who grew up in Zululand. First published in 1955, I browsed through this book when reading for my History degree at the University of Zimbabwe in 1985. 

It’s a detailed biography that blows apart a succession of myths about Shaka, Mzilikazi KaMashobane Khumalo, Zwangendaba kaZiguda Jele Gumbi and Soshangane KaZikode Nxumalo. It a detailed treatise by the son of a former Native Commissioner of Zululand, whose first language was Zulu and had the privilege of recording the history from Njengabantu Ema-Bomvini whose father, Mahola was one of Shaka’s fellow soldiers in Dingiswayo’s Izi-Ncwe Regiment.

Mahola had handed down to his son, who was head native court orderly, a wealth of detail about Shaka. He had other sources, both white and Zulu who were close to the famous exploits of one of the greatest empire builders and military tacticians in Africa. 

I am reading the book as I assist artist and poet Albert Nyathi in the production of an epic musical based on the life of Mzilikazi.

WRITING is not an easy craft and of the writers that have graced this land, a number of those who have departed still occupy important positions as having given direction to Zimbabwean literature.

Stanlake Samkange, Dambudzo Marechera, Alexander Kanengoni, Chenjerai Hove and lately Charles Mungoshi have helped shape trends in Zimbabwean literature, especially that written in English.

The liberation struggle in this country provided the very source of the protest literature that dominated Zimbabwean writing in the late 1970s.

The poetry, in particular, was mainly concerned with showing revulsion of the settler colonial regime as well as urging on people to fight the white administration. 

Chenjerai Hove, for instance, in his poetry anthology titled Up In Arms — as the title suggests — concentrates on the fight against colonial rule and the oppressive nature of the racist Rhodesia regime.

The drought, barrenness and hunger suggested in the title Those Years of Drought and Hunger runs through the bulk of Zimbabwean literature of this period.

Marechera’s House of Hunger is suggestive when you look at the title. 

While critics have generally wanted to divide Zimbabwean into generations, the same concerns permeate their writings.

Samkange and his group — an older group of writers — wrote biographies and romance literature.

Mungoshi, who died a fortnight ago after battling a neurological condition for a decade and was buried at Marondamashanu, Manyene in Chivhu, sanitising a bad situation was not a part of him as he candidly showed the desolation of the “native purchase area that had become his home”.

He never had time to paint a rosy picture of what he felt was bad.

The desolation that characterises Waiting for the Rain and Coming of the Dry Season reflects the situation in colonial Rhodesia.

Perhaps the arts sector would have hoped for better recognition for the renowned writer, who put Zimbabwean writing on the global map as shown by the awards he won.

Former Industry and Commerce minister Mike Bimha — who is former legislator for Chikomba West said they had set up a committee to work towards honouring Mungoshi during his  lifetime.

“Unfortunately, hazvina kuita saizvozvo. Takatangirwa. Vakabva varwara zvikarema kuti titi mudzimai nevana vacho tinge tiinavo pataironga izvi. (It could not happen like that as he fell ill and it became difficult for the wife and children to be with us regularly when we met as they had to attend to their sick father). Asi kana tapedza kuchema tichasangana topfuudza basa ratakanga takaronga (after mourning we will gather and see that we honour him as had been planned).”

Deputy Arts minister Yeukai Simbanegavi said of Mungoshi:

“VaMungoshi ranga riri gamba remagamba (he was a hero of heroes). Some of his books were translated into other languages. No one can say he did not come across any of Mungoshi’s books in school. Donzvo ravo raiva rekudzidzisa vana veZimbabwe (His aim was to teach Zimbabweans. His books had lessons that we should live together as Zimbabweans. Such people are heroes. Legends are legends, you cannot take that away from them.”

Poet and Zimbabwe Writers Association chairperson Musaemura Zimunya — who teaches at the Midlands State University — said he met Charles Mungoshi at the then University of Rhodesia in the 1970s.

Zimunya said the arts sector had lost greatly in the death of Mungoshi. “Dai aive ari mwana wamambo taiti gomo rawa. (Had he been son of a chief, we could have said a mountain has fallen).”

He added that he later went to England to further his studies.

“I later went to study in England but on my return, got employed by the University of Zimbabwe where I was asked to come up with a syllabus for Zimbabwean literature. Among the books that were studied were from (Stanlake) Samkange, Mungoshi and  Marechera.” 

Writer and University of Zimbabwe academic Memory Chirere said the death of Mungoshi had robbed the nation of a pathfinder in Zimbabwean writing.

“He did the pathfinder role with distinction. It calls on us to excel or fail. He was a pioneer in the writing of realistic Zimbabwean literature. Again, he is the one to point at the direction of the land issue. The desolation and loneliness.”

Another UZ academic Tanaka Chidora weighed in saying the metaphors which are the foundation of Waiting for the Rain are still there in Zimbabwean literature.

“The only reading of Zimbabwean which is valid starts with Mungoshi. It is not possible without premising it on Mungoshi.”  

One of the few artists who wrote across languages, cultures and also the major genres namely poetry, prose and drama, Mungoshi was one of the finest writers Zimbabwe has ever produced.

One of his greatest strengths, the short story remained testimony of his adept hand with the prose genre as shown through Coming of the Dry Season (1972), The Setting Sun and Rolling World (1987), Stories from a Childhood (1989), One Day Long Ago: More Stories from a Shona Childhood (1991),Walking Still (short stories; 1997).

In 2003, Mungoshi was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt) by the University of Zimbabwe in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Zimbabwean writing and its development over the years. 

The award-winning Mungoshi has the following titles to his name; Coming of the Dry Season (1972), Ndiko Kupindana Kwamazuva (1975), Waiting for the Rain (1975), Makunun’unu Maodzamoyo (“Brooding Breeds Despair”; 1977), Inongova Njake Njake (1980), Kunyarara Hakusi Kutaura? (1983),The Setting Sun and Rolling World (1987), Stories from a Childhood (1989), One Day Long Ago: More Stories from a Shona Childhood (1991), Walking Still (short stories; 1997), The Milkman Doesn’t Only Deliver Milk (1998) and Branching Streams Flow in the Dark (2013).

Mungoshi was no doubt Zimbabwe’s most decorated writer, having received a string of awards, including the International PEN Awards in 1975 and 1981, Noma Honourable Awards For Publishing in Africa (1980, 1984, 1990 and 1992), Commonwealth Writer Prize for Best Book in Africa for The Setting Sun and The Rolling World (1988), Honorary Fellow in Writing Award in the Creative Activities of the International Writing Programme by The University of Iowa (1991), United States Information Agency Award for participating in the International Visitor Programme (1991), New York Time Notable Book of the Year (1989), the Noma Award for Publishing in Africa (1997), Commonwealth Writer’s Prize for Best Book in Africa (1998). The Commonwealth Writers Prize in 1998 led to a meeting with Queen Elizabeth (II) at Buckingham Palace.

Mungoshi and his crop of writers indeed contributed greatly towards a correct portrayal of the Zimbabwean situation through writing.

His books therefore gave direction to a new trend in Zimbabwean literature in English. Readings on land deprivation, the Diaspora and other issues start with the departed writer.

Sketches of Lucifer Mandengu, Old Japi, Garabha and others in Waiting for the Rain remain typical. 

But we have four common shapes being apple, banana, pear and hourglass. 

It is very important for every woman to understand her body shape before choosing what to wear as the best way to look good is to identify garments that flatter your body shape. 

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As a stylist and fashion retailer myself, these are the some of the pointers that I have come up with to help you identify for your body and what looks good on it.

The Apple Shape

This body shape is characterised by broad shoulders, large bust, arms and legs could be slim and the midsection tends to gain weight. 

Overall the body is top heavy. 

Apple shape is the hardest to dress but the trick is to camouflage trouble spots and show off the best bits. 

Tops that are loose around the middle to camouflage your tummy and low necklines to show off your bust are ideal.

Peplum tops that extend to just above your hip worn with a pencil skirt help you to balance out your body and give an impression of wider hips. 

Dresses that are tight at the top and flare just above the waist are also flattering for this body shape.

The Banana Shape

This is characterised by a straight, athletic look with balanced hips and bust but the waist is not as defined. 

This figure tends to make one look boyish so the trick is to create an illusion of curvature.

Tops and jackets that emphasize the waist and belts should be your main accessory. 

Belted coats, strong blocks of colour and jackets that taper and end right below the waist create curves. 

Short flared dresses with belted waist are flattering if you have good legs. 

Tutu skirts and dresses are also awesome on this body shape. Most models on international runways also exhibit this shape. 

Pear Shape

Characterised by a small torso and defined broad hips, this body shape is one which most women are dying to have. 

The main disadvantage of this body shape is that one is a small size at the top and a much bigger size at the bottom so it is very difficult to find dresses and jeans that fit well without gaping at the waist which is very small in proportion to the hips. 

So tights and jeggings end up being very popular pieces as opposed to jeans in the pear shaped woman’s wardrobe. 

It is wise to invest in bright coloured shirts and prints to draw attention to your upper body. 

Strapless tops and tops with wide necklines make your shoulders look wider or more proportional. To slim your hips wear wide leg pants or pants that are flared at the bottom. 

Hourglass Shape

This is the most sought-after body in the fashion world because the bust and hips have similar measurements and the waist is small. Because this body is proportional, it is easy to dress, crop tops, high waist wide leg pants, bodycon dresses, pencil skirts and wrap dresses all look good on an hourglass figure.

The best way to ‘slay’ when it comes to fashion is to understand your body and the garments that flatter it.

No matter how popular a fashion trend is our how fat your wallet is, avoid garments that do not flatter your body shape.

It is key to access your body honestly so that you know what to wear and what to avoid.

n Munyavi is a multi-award-winning musician and business woman who runs Cindy’s Corner in HarareUnderstand your body, know what to wear.

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Zimbabweans, most of whom are not employed, have found a pastime on social media networks where they are brewing all sorts of social skits and jokes.

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They have all the time in the world as they have no promising prospect of finding a job soon.

And this supports the old adage that an idle mind is devil’s workshop because some of the productions they are creating and posting online are naughty, malicious and dangerous.

The problem with this kind of content is that it is undiluted and off-the-mark.

In rare cases, it speaks truth to power, hence exposing some dubious characters along the way.

The major casualties in most of the skits and sick jokes are politicians, celebrities and in recent months soldiers and the police.

I remember that in the old days even when social media hadn’t been introduced in the country there were mischievous individuals who were good at creating jokes around popular figures and these would be shared at bottle stores, baby showers and other social gatherings.

One of the personalities who found his name mudded everywhere was the late politician and vice president of Zimbabwe, Simon Muzenda.

Not that Zimbabweans hated him, NO. But he was a character that depicted the old school of thinking and the jokes portrayed him as ‘backward’.

And Muzenda knew about the multitude of jokes that circulated around his name and persona, hence always jokingly brushed them aside — it made him even more popular as a social sarcasm character.

Everything Muzenda touched or said was turned into a joke.

But Muzenda was lucky that social media hadn’t arrived at our doorstep!

Social media platforms have also destroyed the myth that only ZBCTV is able to screen events live, be it news, live debates or any other special arrangements.

Zimbabweans can now watch live events on social media platforms and it’s cheap. 

Opposition political parties such as the MDC which had for years been barred from ZBCTV have also suddenly found a ready platform with its leader Nelson Chamisa being a beneficiary as he screens his own talk shows.

And because of social media, government departments, especially the military and police have recently been found wanting. 

While they can dish out their propaganda and spin story events on ZBCTV, today there is social media to correct them instantly.

With the emergence of the citizen journalist who uses his/her phone to record videos and take photographs, recordings can now come from any part of the country and they can be instant as events unfold.

Social media has given government a torrid time as it has turned out to be the Big Brother; watching and recording every evil perpetrated mostly by those in authority.

There was a time that government ministers and officials continued to insist that fuel in the country was abundant when the opposite was true on the ground.

What happened? Social media began to release videos shot from all over the country of fuel queues snaking kilometres on end. The expose was embarrassing because of the V11!

While the security forces tried to deny any wrongdoing — shootings and beatings — during the August 1 and January 14 violence that rocked the nation, the videos that were produced by the citizen journalist were overwhelming.

The live footages exposed the atrocities by the army and police, hence exposing the blatant lies by those who are supposed to protect us and abide by the rule of law.

Social media has also made the job at ZBCTV very hard as spinning the truth of events happening on the ground becomes harder by each day.

And I am imagining how much live footage would have been shot had Gukurahundi happened in today’s era. Unfortunately while there are eye witnesses, future generations would have learnt a lot about this massacre had there been something on tape!

And we recently had the #CharityCharambaChallange, a challenge in which social media users told outrageous lies as they emulated ZRP national police spokesperson senior assistant commissioner Charity Charamba’s press conference where she had rubbished as fake a video which showed police officers and a soldier brutally assaulting a handcuffed civilian.

The challenge, however, had its casualties as Bustop TV (an online TV station) had its cast comprising comedians Gonyeti and Maggie arrested after they released a skit on the subject while donning what looked like police uniforms.

They were, however, made to pay $20 fines for wearing police uniforms without the permission of the police.

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It has been three years since music diva Clare Nyakujara left the country to showcase at the Disney World Animal Kingdom in Florida, United States and she is enjoying the challenge.

The Daily News on Sunday interviewed her from her Florida base where she is raising the Zimbabwean flag high.

Clare says music is well recognised in the US as it is an industry on its own; so no matter how small or big one is, there is always room for everybody to flourish. 

“So as long as one is good they survive. The quality of life here is amazing as long as you work hard and get a pay-check at the end of the week. But it’s all hell if you don’t work hard and it is always very easy to become homeless,” she says. 

Clare performs daily, showcasing six 30-minute sets in a six-hour period. 

“Since the venue is a themed park we do not have to advertise for audiences as it is atmosphere entertainment for everybody; those already in the park would have paid for all showcases.

“I work for Zumazuma Circus which recruits African artists with talent which is contracted to Disney World Animal Kingdom and I’m contracted under the kora tinga which I play daily. 

“A kora is an African harp made of gourd and cow skin and it is 21-stringed. It is an instrument found in West Africa performed by griot tribes; but played by man only.” 

Clare says her contract is as long as it is renewed yearly and she is the only Zimbabwean in kora tinga project.

The songstress says the Zimbabwean community in Florida is large with a lot of different people working different jobs although they sometimes come together for get together parties just to catch up. 

When she arrived in the US she first took to recording a professional music CD in California’s Santa Cruz at Riverside Studios under her producer Michael Horne from Pulse Productions.

“I recorded the six-track album with American musicians and James Buzuzi, a fine guitarist from Zimbabwe which has been pushed into the mainstream of world music in America and Europe.”

Apart from the Disney contract, initially Clare also worked on a project in Missiori Branson at a festival where with other artists they had 30-minute slots three times a day. “For that initial project I worked with Buzuzi on guitar, Tendekai former Zimpraise player on bass, Joseph Aadzinga on keyboard and Jacob a drummer from Ghana. 

“It was quite a tight band I must say and we used to fill a 700-seat auditorium every day in the spacious park where other three to four American shows were also taking place.

“I also had a girls’ project where I teamed up with Eve Kawadza from Zimbabwe and Misoji from Tanzania. I played the guitar while the other girls played in runners of their choice. Again it was a 30-minute set showing a setting in an African market called the Harambe. We tried to show the world how united we are as Africans and what a normal day in an African market is like; it was more of a musical and we sang our songs.”

And she eats sadza regularly. “America’s agriculture is very expansive, so we have almost everything from sadza, cassava to anything you might think of; so we don’t really miss home foods because it is available.”

She says racism is not something people are comfortable talking about because it holds so much of bad history, “so it’s sort of something people don’t really address but yes, it exists with other people and it is often displayed openly.”

Clare says in Florida where she lives and works, the weather is more or less like in Africa. “It’s also one of the warmest parts in the US; hence Disney built all the parks here for people to take holidays away from their cold winters.”

Apart from the daily showcases at Disney, Clare is also working on her own project as ‘Clare’ and will be releasing new music soon. 

She also now owns a self-contained music solo kit that she uses for her solo gigs.

She will be visiting Zimbabwe soon although she cannot say when because of work commitments. And she was saddened by the death of Oliver Mtukudzi.

“The death of Mtukudzi came to me as a surprise and I am still trying to get the hang of it. 

“I don’t really believe it; he was a father to most of us, a good adviser and big mentor for most of us. 

“The biggest thing he ever told me was; ‘Clare you are the one who is called Clare, so do not let the band control your music. Be strong on the guitar and stand on your own.’ So here I am today, my livelihood is from a solo career and it’s working out great,” she says.

Clare was born in Harare in 1984. In 2006 she began writing her own songs, releasing her debut album Haudineyi after which she began playing nightly gigs in bars, restaurants and hotels around Harare. 

Among others, she has performed at the Shangai Expo 2010, and at the Book Café with the band The Other 4, and shared the stage with some of Zimbabwe’s finest musicians, including the late great musician Mtukudzi.

Her 2012 album Unleashed is aptly named as it coincided with her musical journey of self-discovery and transformation. 

As of 2013, Clare and other female musicians had popularised their concept of Kumabhebhi.

Kumabhebhi, which literary means a ladies’ meeting place, is a brainchild of Clare and award-winning urban grooves artiste Cindy Munyavi.