By Abel Karowangoro

The Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Judith Ncube, has enthusiastically endorsed an upcoming Hollywood film project titled AMAZULU, set to be filmed in the vibrant city of Bulawayo.

The announcement, made during a recent gathering with local creatives and stakeholders, underscores the Minister’s commitment to promoting Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and economic potential through the power of storytelling.

Minister Judith Ncube stands alongside Hollywood guests, local creatives, and the cast of the film AMAZULU during its official endorsement event in Bulawayo — a celebration of Zimbabwe’s unity, talent, and cinematic potential.
Photo Credit: Beknowned Chimwaza

Minister Ncube praised the initiative, describing AMAZULU as a “monumental opportunity” to place Bulawayo and Zimbabwe on the global stage.

“This film is more than just entertainment; it is a platform to showcase the heart and soul of our nation,” she said.

“Bulawayo, with its rich history, cultural significance, and resilient spirit, is the perfect backdrop for a project of this magnitude. I am thrilled to see our city and our people represented in a way that celebrates our unity, strength, and boundless potential.”

The Minister highlighted the project’s alignment with Zimbabwe’s broader vision of fostering unity and economic development, as championed by His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

“Projects like AMAZULU embody the spirit of togetherness and progress that we are working tirelessly to achieve,” she added.

“By supporting such initiatives, we are not only promoting our cultural heritage but also inviting the world to witness the beauty of Zimbabwe and invest in its future.”

The vision for AMAZULU was passionately articulated by its producer, Nkosilathi Khumalo, a renowned Zimbabwean filmmaker dedicated to telling stories that inspire and unite.

Speaking at the event, Khumalo called upon the creative community to rally behind a shared vision for Zimbabwe’s future.

“Unity is the foundation upon which peace and love are built. As creatives, we have a unique opportunity to shape the narrative of our country, Zimbabwe,” he said.

“I call upon all fellow creatives to focus on crafting stories that showcase the beauty, resilience, and potential of our nation.”

 

Khumalo outlined a clear roadmap for the creative industry to contribute to national development.

He urged storytellers to “promote national unity” by celebrating Zimbabwe’s diversity and highlighting the strength that comes from its differences.

He also emphasised the importance of showcasing the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic opportunities to inspire pride and attract investment.

“Let’s support the President’s vision for a prosperous and united Zimbabwe,” Khumalo said, encouraging creatives to take ownership of their role as storytellers.

“No one will do it for us. We must be proactive in promoting our country and its interests.” Minister Ncube echoed Khumalo’s sentiments, commending his passion and vision for AMAZULU.

“Nkosilathi Khumalo and his team are doing exceptional work in putting Zimbabwe on the map,” she said.

 

“This film will not only highlight Bulawayo’s historical significance as the home of the Ndebele kings but also its modern-day vibrancy as a hub of culture and innovation.

I am confident that AMAZULU will inspire both Zimbabweans and the global audience to see our nation in a new light.”

The Minister also emphasised the economic benefits of hosting a Hollywood production in Bulawayo.

“This project will create jobs, boost tourism, and open doors for local talent to collaborate with international filmmakers,” she noted.

“It is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together as a united front. I urge all stakeholders, government, private sector, and the creative community, to rally behind AMAZULU and make it a success.”

Khumalo’s call to action resonated deeply with attendees, as he urged creatives to take ownership of Zimbabwe’s narrative.

“We are the storytellers,” he said. “We have the power to shape the narrative of our country. Let’s tell stories that inspire and uplift, stories that educate and unite our nation. Zimbabwe comes first, and together, we can build a brighter future for all.”

Popular Zimdancehall artist Seh Calaz has ignited a lively debate among his fans and within the music industry regarding the use of live bands versus traditional backing tracks (riddims) for performances.

Seh Calaz, known for his dynamic stage presence, took to social media to ask his followers for their honest opinions on incorporating live musical instruments into Zimdancehall performances.

He posed questions such as, “How do you view a live band?”

“Especially with the Zimdancehall genre, is it coming out good wherever you attend shows in comparison to how we used to do it, or is it simply pressure from our neighbours?”

“Since you are our paymasters, are you enjoying the music at the end of the day after parting ways with your cash? Please, let us not mention names of certain bands and their respective artists. I just want your honest opinion based on your experience.”

His inquiry quickly garnered thousands of responses, highlighting the divided opinions within the Zimdancehall fan base.
Some of his fans and music lovers had this to say.

Social Media Reactions 

Eddie Maposa: I think the band, maybe the Pama album launch or Pama big events.

Don Simz: A band with good artists vanoziva basa zvinoita, and you can play a different beat rinoita for performance pa stage.

Prosper Murire: Semubhandit kuside rangu zvangu, no need yeBand tongonakirwa zvedu takadaro. Even some of international artists have it, hazvite zvamaBand, ngatisaiswe pressure nezvina basa.

Wellington Tendai Chakuvunza: No band, please.

While the concept of live band performances is not new to the Zimdancehall scene, its implementation has yielded mixed results.

Some artists who have attempted to integrate live bands have faced challenges that include technical glitches, poor sound coordination, and lack of experience with live instrumentation, leading to “underwhelming shows” and “dissonant” music.

However, some artists have successfully embraced the live band format.

Winky D, a pioneer in the genre, is frequently cited as setting a high standard with his Vigilance Band.

Their performances are lauded for their professionalism, musical tightness, and ability to blend the raw energy of dancehall with live musical flair, providing a richer experience for fans.

The ongoing discussion sparked by Seh Calaz underscores the evolving nature of Zimdancehall and the continuous quest by artists to enhance their craft and deliver the best possible experience to their audience.

Zimbabwean dancehall artist Jimmy Mudereri, popularly known as Silent Killer, has once again sparked controversy after failing to show up for a performance in Durban, South Africa.

The no-show, which occurred at the Cool Runnings music event where he was billed as the main act, has left both fans and promoters “disillusioned,” according to a statement from Stige Movement, the event organisers.

The Stige Movement, led by Nqabutho Prestige “Stige” Dhlamini, expressed extreme disappointment over Silent Killer’s absence.

“We arranged everything to the letter, from direct flights out of Zimbabwe to hotel accommodations, not to mention a 50% advance payment for his performance. His failure to show up is unacceptable and disrespectful to both the team and the fans,” said Dhlamini.

“His failure to show up is unacceptable and disrespectful to both the team and the fans.”

Fans had gathered at the venue with high expectations, eager for Silent Killer’s “electrifying acts,” but were met with the news of his “unexplained nonperformance.”

The Stige Movement has publicly demanded that Silent Killer issue an “unreserved media apology” to both his Durban fans and the promoters.

Failure to apologise will result in “instantaneous legal action,” with the Stige Movement threatening to open a case for breach of contract and damages incurred.

The incident has drawn strong reactions from Zimbabweans, with many expressing their disapproval of Silent Killer’s behaviour.

Blessing Chiwoto commented on the artist’s unreliability, while Milestone Deon lamented, “Talent without character is as good as dead.”

However, not everyone was quick to condemn the artist.

Praise Khulani Moyo defended Silent Killer, stating, “I will never comment again until Silent Killer gives his side of the story.

Last time akazviramba zvekuputika kwendege,” suggesting that there might be an untold side to the story, referencing a past incident where the artist denied involvement in an aeroplane-related issue.

Silent Killer, known as “Ngwere” to his fans, has a history of attracting controversy, frequently making headlines for reasons other than his music.