A Week of Cultural Convergence in Harare
Last week, Harare experienced a vibrant cultural event that spanned multiple disciplines and brought together artists, scholars, and community members. From memoir launches to live music performances and visual art exhibitions, the city was alive with creativity and expression.
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Launch of a Memoir: Reflections on Public Service
The week began with the launch of “An Itinerant Social Scientist: Memoirs of a Public Servant” by Matenda Rukobo, a veteran bureaucrat and scholar. The 475-page memoir was unveiled at Heritage Village in Warren Park on June 27. Rukobo’s book offers a detailed account of his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a significant figure in Zimbabwe’s public service. The event was graced by Vice President General (Rtd) Constantino Chiwenga, who served as the guest of honor, along with other notable figures such as former Defence Minister Sydney Sekeramayi and several government officials and members of the diplomatic community.
Youth Arts Scene: A Celebration of Creativity
In the youth arts scene, Prince Edward High School hosted an innovative mixed-gender live music event and visual art exhibition. Students Philip Mucheri and Kudakwashe Manganga showcased their works, while the school’s senior and junior music students collaborated with students from Arundel Girls High. Their performances included classical jazz and marimba renditions of popular songs, highlighting the talent and diversity of young artists in the region.
Jazz and Intimate Performances
On the other side of town, the “Winter Jazz and Seduction Café” curated by jazz virtuoso Josh Meck transformed the Zimbabwe German Society into an intimate performance space. Supported by the British Council and the Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe through the Music Connects Africa programme, the event resembled a Tiny Desk concert. Artists performed close to the audience, creating a unique atmosphere that blurred the lines between the stage and the audience.
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Natasha, Josh Meck’s daughter, was among the performers, showcasing her soulful covers of artists like Lira and Sade. She is currently studying biomedical engineering at the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT). Other notable performers included Rute Mbangwa and surprise artist Mitchel Mvundura, whose version of Dorothy Masuka’s “Pata Pata” received an encore from the audience.
The Launch of the Album Chimanimani
On Saturday evening, Theatre in the Park hosted the launch of the album “Chimanimani,” a collaborative five-track acoustic project between poet Chirikure Chirikure and the late mbira icon Chiwoniso Maraire. This project was finally realized after 17 years, marking a significant moment for both artists and their fans.
The event featured shared stories and collective memories, not just for Chirikure but also for Daves Guzha, who recounted how Chiwoniso became part of his team during a tour to Stockholm. The duo reminisced about their European theatre tours with the Rooftop Theatre Company, which included notable actors like Walter Muparutsa, Mandla Moyo, and Thembi Ngwabi. They also reflected on the heart-wrenching timeline of Chiwoniso’s final days.
Hosted by Patience Phiri, the launch transported the audience through time, offering a preview of the album. The combination of Chirikure’s poetic dub chants and Chiwoniso’s haunting mbira melodies created a mystical medley, particularly evident in the songs “Chimanimani” and “Tinobhomba.” The latter is a powerful plea for tolerance and peace.
Visual Arts and Documentary Premiere
By Sunday, the focus shifted to visual arts as the British Council hosted the premiere of Prudence Chimutuwah’s documentary. The event included a panel discussion moderated by Usher Nyambi, featuring Chipo Kanyumbu, Fadzai Muchemwa, and Chimutuwah alongside her husband, Calvin. The discussion highlighted themes such as the power of collaboration, grant opportunities for artists, and the importance of government and corporate involvement in supporting the arts.
Chimutuwah’s work is known for its bold, vibrant palette and depictions of women. Her innovative use of materials, including decommissioned Zimbabwean banknotes, adds a unique dimension to her art. Attendees included British Council leaders and other art administrators, emphasizing the significance of the event.
Conclusion
This week of cultural events in Harare underscored the city’s rich artistic landscape and the importance of fostering creativity and collaboration. From memoirs and music to visual arts and documentaries, the events celebrated the talents and contributions of individuals across various fields, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
