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Women are now bigger power houses: Ammara

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Ammara Brown

Ammara Brown

Rumbidzai Mbewe, Sunday Life Correspondent
MEN have always had privileges since birth and hence some of their actions are either taken for granted or normalised. However, things are slowly changing and women are claiming their share in the so called men’s world.

Speaking at the launch of her new album Ammartia, the award winning artiste Ammara Brown said the song Akiliz was a real life situation for her. The song bird mentioned that there was a particular person who took advantage of her love and caring nature.

“I am a kind person at heart and when I love people that I love, be it family and friends, if you need anything and when I can help be assured that I can do something. I am that kind of a person,” she said.

The award winning Ammara expressed her feelings on how the society was struggling to place women or understand how to deal with women who are making it big, even bigger than some men in different communities.

“We are in an age where women are even bigger power houses than before and the society does not know how to handle us. It is either we are being taken advantage of or we are shot down for who we are,” she said.

The songstress said society saw it abnormal for a woman to provide for a man but when a man does it, it is considered normal. She said women and men should be appreciated the same way.

“In the same way a man provides for a woman nobody looks at the man like he is a horrible person for doing that, it’s very abnormal for a woman to do that thing and be appreciated in the same way,” she said.

Ammara said it has now become common for people to use the economy as an excuse to take advantage of those who can help them because they love them not for any other particular reason.

Her fans known as the Ammartians are eagerly waiting for the video for the song which is currently rocking air waves. -@rumbie_mbewe


Showbiz women exploitation world storm: From Matavire to Jah Prayzah

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Paul Matavire

Paul Matavire

Bruce Ndlovu, Sunday Life Correspondent
PAUL Matavire’s victim did not feel the so called Dr Love’s tender touch when he, alongside fellow Jairos Jiri band member Peter Mabvuwa, took turns to rape her in 1989.

While history will never know the name of this faceless visually impaired woman from Chiwundura Communal Lands, Matavire’s name appears destined to live forever in the annals of Zimbabwean music.

Despite such a stain in his reputation from an obviously heinous act, Matavire still occupies a soft spot in the hearts of Zimbabweans who recall his contributions to Zimbabwean music with fondness. The rape charge and conviction is usually the footnote to any conversation about the famous blind musician’s contribution to Zimbabwean music is brought up.

About 14 years after Matavire said goodbye to his jail cell, another Zimbabwean musician was to find himself in the crosshairs as a woman accused him of sexual abuse and exploitation.

A tearful Pamela Zulu accused one Mukudzeyi Mukombe, otherwise known as Jah Prayzah, of having used her sexually while she was still a part of his Third Generation band. It was a startling revelation by the heavyset Zulu, aptly named Gonyeti by the man she now fingered as her tormentor in chief.

However, Jah Prayzah and his camp maintained his innocence, describing the claims as sour grapes after Gonyeti had left the band.

Jah Prayzah

Jah Prayzah

Notheless, a year later, those accusations seem to have barely made a dent on Jah Prayzah’s career, and his stranglehold on the Zimbabwean music scene seems to be as strong as ever. Like Matavire before him, the conversation rarely strays to those unproven sexual abuse allegations when Jah Prayzah’s name comes up in conversation.

Over the past few weeks, Hollywood has been wrecked by allegations similar to those faced by Matavire and Prayzah. Heavyweights like House of Cards lead actor Kevin Spacey and comedians Louis C.K and Bill Cosby have been thrown under the bus as Hollywood cleans house. Each new day brings new allegations as high flying stars are rudely and mercilessly brought crashing down.

While the purge of rapists and abusers in Hollywood continues, sexual abuse is still largely an unspoken secret in Zimbabwean showbiz. As there is no smoke, many assume that a fire also does not exist.

However, according to female practitioners in the arts, the allegations are just the tip of the iceberg as most sexual abuse of women goes unreported, the showbiz scene is just full of the silent walking wounded.

Most stay quiet because of the fear of embarrassment and backlash. Gonyeti, for example, was attacked left, right and centre by platoons of Jah Prayzah’s followers who felt that she was merely trying to ruin the reputation of their beloved Soja.

“They can’t come out and report this abuse because there’s no protection,” said actress and model trainer Sarah Mpofu in an interview with Sunday Life.

“Even if you choose to speak out, you end up being accused of this and that. The abuse is not something new and we’ve all witnessed it through the years.”

Mpofu said when women were taken advantage of, some would not even realise it at the time.

“Sometimes women, especially young women, are pressured into these things and they feel like this is the only way to get ahead in their career. It’s only when they have been used and discarded and a new ‘thing’ comes along that they begin to see how they were used. At that point it is already too late to complain or do anything about it,” she said.

Mpofu said as most young upstarts are usually not confident to go it alone at the beginning of their careers they end up seeking a push from men who want to prey on them. However, she pointed out that even those that are single-minded in their determination to succeed on their own usually find themselves at the mercy of predatory men.

“Even if you’re professional, these men still come after you. This is not only a problem in showbiz but everywhere in most professional set-ups in Zimbabwe,” she said.

Having earned her stripes in the world of showbiz and entertainment, Mpofu is usually not the type of woman singled out for abuse by lustful men. Instead, like lions stalking the young in the wild, men usually go for those they think are weak, which in most cases turns out to be young women.

One of the country’s premier female wheel spinners, DJ Liz, said that to avoid abuse, her work usually started a while before she got her hands on a pair of decks.

“You hear a lot of stories about what men do to female performers because we get hired for gigs and it’s usually not for our talent but for other reasons.

When you get booked out of town, you hear someone saying that you’ve got to sleep at their house and that’s where the most abuse occurs.

“To avoid this, I never travel without getting proof of payment from the place where I’ll be staying and I also don’t travel alone. I also make sure that I don’t take open drinks because when that happens you will be thinking these people are friendly only to find yourself sleeping where you’re not supposed to be later on,” she said.

Liz added that desperation to earn also drove women to grab whatever offer is put on the table.

“Artistes in Bulawayo are desperate for bookings and that’s where things go wrong because if you take a booking in Gwanda and you find out you have to sleep at someone’s place, you can’t turn back,” she said.

For women in dance groups, the abuse takes various forms. According to Cleopatra Khumalo of Shosholoza Girls dance group, men usually see them as little more than ladies of the night peddling their flesh for a quick buck.

“Someone will tell you that you should stop dancing and sleep with them because there’s not much money in dancing. Others feel like we’re all prostitutes so they just ask how much you charge for a sex session,” said Khumalo.

Beer not a soul mate

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Beer is my love

Nhlalwenhle Ncube

BEER seems to be the best comforter to many when they find themselves in trouble or heartbreak the unforeseen hurdle is that the results are more disastrous than expected.

Many people when heartbroken or experiencing some problems in relationships, beer becomes the best comforter while on the other hand finishing them off. I have seen a number of women and men who made the deadly decision of turning to beer during hard times.

I know when one is heartbroken; all he/she needs is something that will occupy his mind so he/she forgets about life’s unfavourably moments. Beer is not an option, but humans have always shown a desire for opting for the easy way out even though long or even short term repercussions are grinning on their faces. I have come across people who find companion in alcohol in a scary manner. History is rich with the effects of alcohol especial where people are supposed to act responsible and take care of their families.

There is a quick dangerous assumption whenever beer is mentioned. People are quick to dismiss women as potential abusers but that’s not the case.

Women also tend to find solace in alcohol whenever things go west or fail to work out as planned. Nevertheless, the main point drenching self in alcohol is the worst move that one can take as its results are close to sorrow. Decisions associated with abuse of alcohol have serious life repercussions ranging from financial, physical or even emotional impact.

People who decide to seek companion in the bottle instead of consulting their partners or amicable settling whatever would have triggered them to drinking sprees always find themselves in serious financial challenges. The disadvantage with imbibing uncontrollably is that the effects barely manifest themselves until it’s too late. The moment you decide to quit drinking you will discover that already you have a serious health problem which you could have easily avoided. I have seen people with severe scars either from beer brawls, falling or accidents related to drinking. Emotional people who abuse alcohol have a track record of abusing their partners and even children. We can go on until next year stating the impact of alcohol abuse in people’s lives especial on couples.

Remember no one is born an alcoholic, but what begins as a simple fun habit can take just a small emotional moment to trigger it into a serious alcoholic spiral. Relationships turn into bottled air once commitment is thrown outside the window. Whenever one of the partners finds comfort in alcohol, commitment becomes a dreaded point to approach let alone taking to hand some of the general chores held in the house. Already from the canvas I have covered with small details of alcohol abuse in relationships a clear picture of heartbreaks is taking shape. With beer abuse, heartbreaks are always at bay.

Marriages have broken down because of people who choose to turn to alcohol instead of solving problems in their relationships. It is even worse for women because once your man parts ways with you on the basis that you alcoholic, you even lose the children as you will be deemed irresponsible. Believe me, your children will never forgive you for deserting them when they needed you most because they will have missed that Mother’s love. As a woman, despite challenges one faces, alcohol is not the best solution, men should also take note.

As for men, there are a lot of case studies because most of those who turned to beer when their lives got to a curve, lost dignity, jobs, property and family. For how long will we continue having people repeating same mistake. The wise never repeat mistakes done by others!

Never find solace in beer! As we are already in a celebratory mood heading towards the festive season, many alcoholics are born and many relations will suffer so people have to be in control and not be losers.

FEEDBACK
It’s unfortunate that we are cultured to feel that to be a complete woman you have to be married. This then leaves some women who have failed to find a partner of their class desperate. So anything in trousers that gives love and promises marriage becomes worthwhile and the fact that they may be a gold digger never crosses one’s mind until it’s too late. There is lot of desperation to be married out there and trying to dissuade someone from any prospective marriage may be very difficult. Matters of the heart very difficult to mediate.

On the issue of fake relationships mmmmmmh I think that’s a worst time to live in. But you can easily identify fake love. The person who really loves you is unquestionable. ¾ of us are living in fake relationships where we are only forcing our partners to be closer to us, but truly speaking this kind of love is frustrating. Thank you for your topics, it teaches us to discover some things so that we decide before wasting our time. I appreciate your topics!
Ngingumama okhulileyo sibili. Okutshoyo liqiniso sibili ngoba thina omama sesahlala inhliziyo zilimele ngoba obaba abalathando. Kubuhlungu ngoba uthando lwabo expires.

WhatsApp your views 0712978471.

Vintage or retro style

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retro-living-room

Amanda Ncube
VINTAGE or retro style decorating is involves combining a variety of patterns, textures and colours to create a look that is as unique as the era that influenced it. When correctly done, a beautiful and elegant retro space can be created. Vintage or retro syle is any interior decorating theme influenced by trends and styles from the past . . . it encompasses styles from decades ago. Vintage style requires a bold approach and a certain personality, it should be unique.

A vintage or retro syle should be fun, lively, loud, busy, wild and funky. There is nothing laid back or casual with vintage style. Here are some ways of bringing retro or vintage style to your home.

To give your space a vintage feel choose colours that are bright and loud. Choose colours such as avocado green, purple, pink and mustard yellow, which are said to be the most popular retro colour choices. You can combine these colours with other colours such as brown, black or white. Do not be afraid to combine more than two colours . . . mix green, red, yellow and blue on one single item. In most cases retro colours are all fighting to grab people’s attention. You can also use fabrics with all sorts of colours and patterns which reflect a trademark of the vintage style. When decorating with retro or vintage style get rid of any reservations you have may have about mixing colours and patterns.

Almost all vintage furniture grabs people’s attention and they all work as focal points. Vintage furniture is sturdy, durable and completely usable. A vintage couch is broad and extremely long with different colours. Since retro means loud, add more colour by using multi-coloured pillows. The same can be done with your rug or carpet for an added dash of colour. By so doing, an attractive beautiful and funky atmosphere can be created.

Do not be afraid to go over the top. Everything should be bold from flooring to smooth plastics, soft vinyls, and crushed velvets. For flooring you can choose wood (natural), shag carpeting, and a bold mix of tiles with various pattern. Its textures, colours as well as well patterns should reflect retro style by being over the top, wild and busy. The more funky the better.

Accessories and accents should reflect past trends. Fuzzy throw rugs, door beads,decorated lamps, skate tables and scoop stools. Art and sculptures are typically bold and unusual, leaning more toward abstract pieces rather than simple landscapes and still-life. — Additional information from online sources

 

Oskido to drop 50 Degrees album

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Oskido

Oskido

Rumbidzai Mbewe, Sunday Life Correspondent
BACK in 1991 who would have thought that the guy selling boerewors rolls outside Club Razzmatazz in Hilbrow, South Africa would become a house hold name in the music industry. About 26 years later he is no longer selling rolls but is selling dreams and a brighter future for the younger generation in the kwaito music business.

Since the day he replaced the DJ who did not pitch up for a gig at Club Razmatazz, Oscar Mdlongwa also known as Oskido, has built an empire for himself, leaving a legacy for his children. The kwaito legend will this month drop a new album titled 50 Degrees as he celebrates his silver jubilee. His album is set to be launched on his birthday on 29 November.

Taking it to twitter, the legend talks of the amazing experience that he had working with his son. The big question that comes to mind is could Oskido be grooming his son to step in his shoes when he leaves the empire in future?

“Being back home has got me thinking…one of the biggest blessings that came with working on my new album was collaborating with my son on the first single AmaGrootman,” he said.

Oskido said he has been in the music industry for a long time before his son was even born thus the opportunity of working with him in his new album was a magical moment that he cherishes. “He wasn’t even born at the beginning of my career. To have lived long enough to make music with him is a blessing and I could never find words to describe. Life has come full circle,” he said.

The kwaito legend said being in the music business half of his life has taught him a lot of things. He said he has had his fair share of experiences in life as youth and that made him appreciate life hence it groomed him to be the man he is today.

“I have been young and excited, reckless and unruly but…as I stand as a father, musician and businessman today, I’m humbled by the network I’ve built and the people that continue to believe in my advocacy. Your dreams are relevant,” he said.

Recently the artiste revealed to The Times Live that together with the co founders of Kalawa Jazmee, DJ Christos and Don Laka, they will be building a new music hub in Johannesburg. He said they won’t be building an office only on sit but they were going to build accommodation facilities, a music academy, a number of studios and a hall.

Kalawa Jazmee, the legendary music label that birthed much of South African music and gave us artistes such as Trompies, Bongo Maffin, Mafikizolo and Boom Shaka.

 

Joyous Celebration vocalist to release debut album

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Mkhululi Bhebhe

Mkhululi Bhebhe

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S most celebrated gospel musician, Mkhululi Bhebhe now based in South Africa has finally fulfilled his dream of releasing an album after years in the limelight.

The gifted artiste, who is also part of the celebrated gospel outfit Joyous Celebration, will be launching his debut live DVD album dubbed The ultimate praise experience on 2 December in Johannesburg.

On the live DVD recording album consist of not more than 20 tracks; some of the tracks would include collaboration with SbuNoah who happens to be his friend, brother and colleague from Joyous Celebration Choir among other rebound African artistes.

The long awaited album carries with it testimonies of his life what he has gone through to be where he is today and he has dedicated this album in honour of God’s work in his life.

“The main message on this album is to attest that nothing is impossible with God. With all I have been through, suffering rejection and at times being told that I will never amount to anything in the music industry. I’m a living testimony he made me something out of nothing,” Bhebhe said.

Bhebhe said that the response that he has got concerning his album launch has been overwhelming and this is an exciting feeling for any artiste.

“When I announced that I was recording my very first live DVD in Johannesburg, I got an overwhelming response from people all over the world, some of whom will not be making it for the recording due to geographical locations. People have been sharing on social media and tickets are selling well,” he said.

Explaining the reason why it took long to have own album, Bhebhe said that he was going through a process of self discovery.

“The reason why it took me so long to release an album was because as an artiste it sometimes takes a while to find one’s niche. I have been on a journey of self discovery. I have been so preoccupied with travelling the world, ministering in different countries that I didn’t get much time. My international and local tours have enabled me to pick up different sounds and infuse them into my product. I have really learnt a great deal and I hope that it will show in my product,” he added.

However, Bhebhe has conflicting feeling on how people will receive and embrace his product.

“Now that my dreams are coming to life I have conflicting feelings of fulfilment and nervousness. It’s always an uncertain journey when it comes to music because it’s entirely dependent on how well your music is received. I have seen artistes release excellent products which were not well received, but I hope I will be singing a different tune,” he said.

Bhebhe showed a lot of gratitude to his colleagues at Joyous Celebration for the support that they have shown him throughout his journey as a musician as well on the preparation for the forthcoming event. Zimbabwean fans will get to experience his recording as he intends to release it in Zimbabwe among other countries in 2018. -@kayskudzai

Fashion contacts

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eye of fashion 26 nove

Rutendo Chidawanyika
WE’VE all seen people wearing them, but most people don’t understand what they actually are. Fashion contact lenses are lenses that have been dyed with biologically compatible dyes in order to make the surrounding portion of the lens opaque (not transparent), while the centre remains transparent so the wearer can see. Changing your hair colour or nail colour is an easy transformation that millions of women make every other day, but switching your eye colour requires a lot more research and planning beforehand — or it should, at least.

Fashion contacts are the same as regular ones, basically. There’s nothing really different about coloured contacts except they have, well, colour. The coloured fashion lenses have a clear counterpart with the same design. If you regularly wear contacts and are used to them, you’ll be totally fine handling fashion lenses. They last the same amount of time as regular contacts, too.

Women and some men wear these lenses to have a different look, it’s a trend. However fashion contacts can be dangerous and lead to eye infections.

Just like regular contacts, you should NEVER share them with friends. It might seem like coloured contact lenses are just like makeup, especially if they’re not prescribed and you’re just using them to switch up your look, but you shouldn’t share them with anyone. Swapping eye germs can lead to a nasty eye infection. Plus, your friend’s contacts might not be the right ones for you.

The other thing about them: they might be a little less comfortable. Coloured contacts can be a bit thicker than regular ones so they might take some getting used to. To add on, thicker lenses can often be easier to put in and remove.

Take good care of them. Just like prescription lenses, you’re not off the hook once you’ve gotten fitted by a pro and bought the same ones as Nicki Minaj. It is still up to you to properly care for your contacts. Depending on how they’re labelled, the lens should be always be discarded after a certain amount of time and replaced with a fresh lens. And you should never be cleaning your lenses with anything other than cleans hands and a sterile solution. Long nails and contacts do not go hand in hand. Nails accumulate all kinds of dirt and bacteria which may be transferred to the contacts. Keep your nails clean.

Fashion contacts are for cosmetic purposes and should not be worn for long hours. If you plan to wear them daily they should not be worn for more than 8 hours at a time. You should never sleep in contact lenses. You can cause severe damage to your eyes. Always remove them and put them in the case with solution for safe storage and disinfecting. You should never swim in contact lenses because the water contains bacteria that can get trapped in between the lens and your eye and cause infection.

Contact lenses should be cleaned daily and you should also make sure to clean the case that you store them in on a regular basis. Soaking the plastic lens case in boiling hot water before use is a great way to clean the cases and kill bacteria before storing your lens. Yes, you can wear makeup with your contact lenses. Always put your makeup on first, wash your hands and then insert your lenses after the makeup has been applied.

It is very common for new or long term contact lens wearers to experience dry eyes when first inserting the lenses or even blurry vision. This is because your eye is getting used to the light coming through the lens and having something over your cornea. There are eye drops you can get at the pharmacy.

You simply add one or two drops to your eyes with the lenses, and blink a few times to spread the solution over the eyes. — Additional info from Online.
Fashion contacts are a way better option and more affordable than eye surgery.

Email: rutendochidawanyika3@gmail.com

 

Byo guitarist gives Cassper Nyovest reason to believe

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Reason Cheteni

Reason Cheteni

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
WHEN Reason Cheteni aka Reaz Bass was playing with local musicians at home in Bulawayo, he did not imagine himself sharing the stage with Casper Nyovest, let alone being a part of his band. But today Reaz is enjoying his time in the sun as South African rapper Casper Nyovest’s bassist.

Today Cheteni looks back to where it all started.

“I still remember when Casper’s producer posted on Facebook requesting all musicians interested in being part of Casper’s band to inbox him their link playing hip-hop or Casper’s music. I just thought why not give it a try and I did a video and sent it to him. After a couple of weeks I got a call, that they loved my work, there I got the offer.

“They were simply impressed by my bass guitar skills and out of all the people that had sent their links I was lucky to be the chosen one and until today I stand playing for him in all of his events,” he added.

Cheteni has been playing with Casper Nyovest since 2015 and together they have played in big events which have attracted thousands of crowds.

“The climax of my career was in 2015 when I started working with Casper Nyovest, together we have worked through Fill up the Dome, Fill up Orlando Stadium and also his latest album ‘‘Thuto’’ which has been one of his best albums and listened to,” he said.

He described working with the South African rapper as a dream come true for him as he does not only work for him but they have grown to have the best relationship.

“One thing that I have learnt from Casper Nyovest is that your originality does not define who you are or where you come from and he has connected me to prominent musicians in South Africa, it’s all thanks to him. We have a working relationship but it is rooted on family values, as we consider each other family. The relationship that we have has grown to be fruitful as he launched me into the SA hip-hop live band scenes,” he said.

Cheteni is a deep-rooted Christian who believes that everything comes from God in His own time and he being one of the prominent bass guitarists is from God.

“I honestly wouldn’t have come this far if it wasn’t for God’s grace and favour. I just do what I do best and God just perfects the talent which is deep within me and I have learnt to learn from other bassists and musicians,” he said.

“I would like to thank Claire Nyakutya,Vusa Mkhaya, Eric Moyo, Pastor Gee for granting me the opportunity that they gave me while I was still playing back home. These people helped in shaping my career. Today I stand tall with pride as I take on the world in playing bass and raising my country’s flag high,” he said.

Cheteni will be playing bass guitar during the festive season together with Casper Nyovest in their major event #FillUpFNBsatdium which will be taking place in a couple of weeks.

He has worked with most of the well known musicians in South Africa who include NastyC, Ricky Rick, Tshego, Nathi, Nadia Nakai and his looking forward to working with more artistes. -@kayskudzai


Chat with Sis Noe: I caught my roommate with my man

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I caught my roommate with my man

Hi Sis Noe
MY husband does not want my daughter to see her biological father. He takes care of her and loves her but I feel that my baby has a right to have a bond with her father. — Help.

Reply
Your husband is not a reasoning man. Taking care of your daughter does not mean she should be divorced from her biological father. You would be crazy to even to listen to the reasons he will offer or has offered. I am sure you are happy to have your husband, but he has to learn to grow up. Allowing your daughter to see her father or to hear from him does not mean that he is going to take her away from you or your husband. He should be encouraging the girl to call her father from time to time. You have to stand up to this man, but at the same time, you should not be disrespectful.

Hi Sis Noe
I found my roommate naked asleep in bed with my boyfriend when I came home early. When I asked them they said it just happened and they didn’t mean it. My boyfriend says they were drunk and my roommate is asking for forgiveness. I don’t know what to do. — Betrayed.

Reply
Such things don’t just happen overnight. Your boyfriend evidently had his eyes on your roommate for a long time and apparently she was admiring him, too. Both of them knew you were not going to be home. They didn’t even know you were coming back early. Your plans were to be out for a while so they used the opportunity to make love. You caught them sleeping naked. They were probably exhausted after having marathon sex. You didn’t see them doing anything, but you have common sense. They did something – yes, they had sex. They didn’t deny that they had sex. Why else would they be naked? Now you know you can’t trust your man, neither can you trust your roommate. I am not going to tell you what you should do, but I would say to you, do not trust any of them again. You cannot watch your man, but when a woman will give her body to her girlfriend’s man, she is likely to do it again. As soon as you are able, find another place to live.

Hi Sis Noe
My boyfriend cheats on me. I love him but he can’t stop cheating. He makes up for it with money and gifts. I have tried to break up with him but I am failing. — worried.

Reply
This man knows that you do not seriously want to break up with him. He knows that you have gotten to love him, and you are grateful for his help. And whenever you tell him it’s over, it is like you telling him a big joke. If you wanted this man out of your life you would not take any more of his money.

And you would not accept any of his phone calls or see him. If you seriously did not want him in your life, there would not be any further room for argument. Stop entertaining him if you want out otherwise be content with what you have.

Hi Sis Noe
I am tired of having relationships that are based on sex. I want a fulfilling and loving relationship. Could having sex soon after meeting someone prevent something long-term developing, or should I risk being spontaneous with a very new partner? — Worried.

Reply
Putting the words “risk” and “very new partner” in the same sentence raises the safety question. First, you must find a way to have that essential conversation about each other’s sexual history and be prepared to take precautions. It is also worth examining your motives before you quickly become intimate with a virtual stranger. People have sex for all kinds of non-erotic reasons, and I am going to make some guesses that might apply to you.

Maybe you want to get it over quickly, to assuage your anxiety about doing it for the first time after your last relationship? Or, deep down, you are still missing your previous love and want to try to fast-track into a similar situation? Perhaps you have been so hurt that you are trying to prove to yourself that you can get back in the saddle — and imagine that will be healing? I know you long for a deep connection again, but unless you are truly ready emotionally to handle spontaneous sex that is unattached to loving feelings I would suggest waiting a bit. Use your intuition; you will know when the timing is right. In general, becoming intimate early on is not necessarily going to sabotage the development of a longer relationship — unless it goes badly wrong. In your present state, that could happen

Hi Sis Noe
My husband and I rarely have sex because of stress and he says he is not in the mood because I take it out on him. However, one of the main causes of my stress has been the lack of intimacy. I don’t know how to break out of this cycle. — Worried.

Reply
Yes, it really is a cycle, and the way out is to stop perpetuating it! Stress affects far more than intimacy; it undermines your general physical and psychological health as well, so take immediate steps to reduce it, through meditation, exercise — whatever is most effective for you. But even more importantly, stop “taking it out” on him. If you are yelling at him, criticising him, allowing your frustration to be vented at him, that is simply being abusive, and there is no excuse. Even if you are just being irritable around him that would hardly be a turn-on for him, would it? One of the most common passion-killers in any relationship is underlying resentment, which truly shuts down a person’s sexual interest. The power dynamic between you urgently needs to be adjusted. Soften your approach and encourage him to express his true feelings. Listen to him. When he feels safe with you, his desire should return.

Andy Muridzo, Iyasa for World Aids Day bash

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Andy Muridzo

Andy Muridzo

Nhlalwenhle Ngwenya
IN a bid to reach out to many people, Bulawayo National Aids Council has roped in the services of Andy Muridzo and Iyasa for the World Aids Day (WAD) commemorations.

The celebrations which were last commemorated in Bulawayo province 10 years ago will be held at the White city Stadium on 1 December starting from 9 am.

The first WAD was held 29 years ago in a bid to support people living with HIV and to honour those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses.

Since 1988, WAD is observed annually all over the world and in Zimbabwe each province gets the platform to host the national WAD commemorations after every ten years. This year’s commemorations run under the theme: “Closing the tap of new infections”. In a bid to leave an indelible mark in raising HIV awareness, Bulawayo is set to offer edutainment as they target youths and those in need of health services.

“This year the WAD commemorations are going to be held in Bulawayo. To make the invent more interesting and at the same time informative, we are going to have Andy Muridzo, Iyasa and many more local artistes performing at White City Stadium. We are also going to be hosting marches starting from different points,” said Bulawayo provincial Aids director Sinatra Nyathi.

Nyathi added that the commemorations will offer a platform to Bulawayo residents to get free medical services.

“We urge people to come in their numbers as they will be free medical services like HIV testing, dental care, blood sugar testing, voluntary male circumcision, TB and Cancer screening,” she said.

Last year WAD commemorations were held in Kwekwe running under the same theme as this year and Zimbabwe is racing to meet United Nation’s 90-90-90 goal to help end the HIV and Aids pandemic by 90 percent in 2020.

 

The selfie revolution

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Bruce Ndlovu, Sunday Life Correspondent
IN one of the pictures that made rounds on social media, a solitary member of the Zimbabwe National Army is flanked by a group of young women, all flashing smiles to show their pleasure at sharing a snap with the man in uniform.

Ladies love a man in uniform, the popular saying goes and as the four young women cozied up to this lone uniformed, one would be hard pressed to find anyone that argued against that sentiment.

In another, a boy who looks barely older than a toddler sits on army tank, his hand on the lap of a soldier who has an arm wrapped around the young man’s shoulder. The hand on the young boy’s shoulder seemed to be one of reassurance, as if to tell him that he should not worry as everything would be alright.

Ever since the military announced, on the wee hours of 13 November, that it was rooting out corrupt elements hell-bent on ruining the country, it felt like the country’s defence forces have had planted a reassuring arm across the whole country.

As religious a country as any, Zimbabweans would have no doubt said a prayer for salvation. When that salvation came, it did so through the swift and calming hand of the army, which put its hand up and took the task of holding the country’s hand as it walked towards a new dawn.

When Zimbabweans, led by the country’s liberation war fighters, poured onto the streets of Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru and other major cities in the country, they showed their gratitude in a way that is all too familiar nowadays: they took selfies.

In a social media dominated age where people share their experiences as they happen, the selfie has become as common as the air people breath. So when Zimbabweans took to the streets to march in solidarity with their armed forces, they made sure that they took snaps to make sure that their moment of glory would never be lost or forgotten.

zdf selfie1

When one imagines soldiers, they usually envision fearsome men of action whose very existence is meant to strike fear in opposing combatants’ hearts.

However, soldiers can be an oasis of calm and tenderness if the trail of selfies that littered the Zimbabwean social media landscape last weekend are anything to go by. Men, women and children all took the opportunity to stand, smile and take a picture with the men who form Zimbabwe’s last line of defence.

Not a bruise was reported as the armed forces put up an exemplary display that showed that law and order could be maintained with a calm and caring hand. When all was said and done, thousands went back home with the assurance that they have a defence that is staunchly behind them and they had the selfies to prove this too. —

 

Jah Prayzah’s Bob Marley moment

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Bruce Ndlovu, Sunday Life Correspondent
BESIDES a name that suggests some connection to the Rastafarian religion, Jah Prayzah does not seem in any way connected to Bob Marley, the legendary Jamaican reggae star who helped popularise the Jamaican born genre across the globe.

While Marley also had dreadlocks like Prayzah, the two cut vastly different figures. This differences are particularly evident in their music. While Marley was a reggae virtuoso, a masterful musician who personified the raging heart of the black consciousness movement, Jah Prayzah is a man whose initial claim was his ability to tame the country’s traditional music culture for contemporary tastes.

Rather than political or social commentary, Marley’s bread and butter, love songs are usually Jah’s specialty. On Friday at the inauguration of President Emmerson Mngangagwa, however, Jah seemed very much like a musician cut from the same cloth as Marley, a man who died six years before he was born in 1987.

Decked out in his signature military uniform and with his band in full voice behind him, Prayzah provided a moment that, when all is said and done, might be remembered with the same fondness as Marley’s performance on the eve of the country’s independence in Zimbabwe.

The stands at giant National Sports Stadium seemed to shake as Jah gave renditions what has suddenly become the anthem of the day, Kutonga Kwaro, a prophetic cut from his new album of the same name.

For Jah, this represented a massive turnaround. Only a few weeks ago he had been a man on the back foot, as crowds turned against a man who only a few weeks before had released an album expected to be a summer scorcher.

Crucified for his purported arrogance and late show appearances, Jah was pelted in various settings as his fans rebelled against a man who has given them a constant supply of hits over the past few years.

His return to the country after a visit to South Africa was an altogether more pleasant occasion. As he set foot on the country’s soil, he received a hero’s welcome at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and Harare city centre last week where he conducted a road show upon arrival.

In another age, Marley received a similar welcome on an equally momentous occasion. Like Jah, the days leading to Marley’s journey to Zimbabwe were not rosy.

“Chris Blackwell, his manager at the time, was against this tour, but Marley, who had been following events in Zimbabwe, decided he would go,” said music scholar Fred Zindi in an interview. “He hired a PA system in London and paid for his freight to Zimbabwe at his own expense.”

Bringing Marley was a masterstroke, given that he was one of the biggest music stars in world music with a staunch following especially among black people who wanted to free themselves from white oppression. As ideal as it sounded, bringing to the southern tip of the African continent was a next to impossible task that two Zimbabwean businessmen, nightclub owner Job Kadengu and Gordon Muchanyuka, were determined to pull off as they wanted a big name to serenade the new Zimbabwe at midnight on April 17, 1980.

Marley’s arrival was every bit as dramatic and triumphant as that of Jah. According to Forbes Magazine, a bemused contingent of police in stiff green uniforms and peaked caps struggled to control a swarming crowd who came to see the arrival of the Jamaican and his Wailers. The airport had not seen so many people for years as sanctions kept the world away from a country ruled with an iron-fist by Ian Douglas Smith.

“By the time the band arrived, a chartered Boeing 707 was on its way from London to Salisbury (Harare) with 21 tonnes of equipment; a full 35,000-watt PA system plus backline equipment,” said Zindi.

“It was one of the most extraordinary logistics operations. Mick Cater, from Alec Leslie Entertainment, flew down with the equipment and then set himself the problem of building a stage in time for the celebrations. By Wednesday, when the 12-strong road crew arrived in Zimbabwe, he had six hours in which to construct the stage and find sufficient power for the PA system.”

That hero’s welcome was deserved for Marley, who for a long time had been the brightest beacon in the world of music for black people.

“During the years of Chimurenga, Bob Marley’s music had been adopted by the guerrilla forces of the Patriotic Front; indeed, there were stories of Zanla troops playing Marley cassettes in the bush,” said Zindi.

“Certainly, Marley’s music has potency and a commitment which goes far beyond simple entertainment. He now enjoys a special place in Third World culture; an artiste who directly identifies with the black African struggle. Thus, he was the only outside artiste asked to participate in Zimbabwe’s independence celebrations.”

Whether by accident or design, Jah Prayzah’s music has over the past few days become the soundtrack to the changes that have swept across the country. Jah’s lyrics are now being analyzed by those that believe that the dreadlocked music is a seer whose lyrics are studded with nuggets of prophesy. Only a few weeks after Zimbabwean ears got a taste of Kutonga Kwaro, many now know the lyrics of the song line for line.

Although he has protested his political innocence in the past, this week Jah acknowledged that his music has indeed become an anthem of the times.
“I am so overjoyed to see Zimbabwe come together united as one. The last time such love and joy in one place was present, I was not yet born, maive muna 1980, so I heard. And to top it all, it was all done in peace.

“Even though I was not there I am happy I was with you through my music and would like to thank you Zimbabwe for embracing my new album and letting it speak to you and your lives,” the musician said while in South Africa.

While he has never been overtly political like Marley, Jah’s music will now be forever tied to this historic week in Zimbabwe. Whether his music will maintain keep a finger on the pulse of historic happenings is a question for another day. Perhaps by coincidence or fate, Jah played at the historic occasion at the giant stadium at the inauguration of President Mngangagwa, the second executive President since independence after former president Robert Mugabe. — @BruciEEye

 

Shingisai Suluma gives new hope for Zim

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Shingisai Suluma

Shingisai Suluma

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter  
United States-based gospel musician, Shingisai Suluma, popularly known as Mai Suluma has released a song coupled with a video in support of the Zimbabwean recent developments.

The song Pano Patasvika was recorded back in 2015 but was released last month.

“Pano Patasvika is a song we wrote in 2015 and we presented the song in Victoria Falls in a live gala in February 2015. We just recorded the song and never got to release the song as we knew that it may come a time that it will be appropriate for it to be released,” Suluma said.

The song is a message of hope for fellow Zimbabweans, an encouragement that they should not lose hope now that the country is at its best.

“The message in the song is meant to encourage each Zimbabwean to play a part in moving our nation forward. A statement in the lyrics says ‘rwendo rurefu’ emphasising that we do not expect change overnight. We know the journey is a long one, and we want everyone to keep walking,” she said.

Suluma said that being abroad did not detach her from current affairs at home.

“We are one people and one big family: our success as a nation gives all of us pride, hence the encouragement for everybody to keep walking and keep working,” Suluma said.

The song which is coupled with a video of the recent development in Zimbabwe has been receiving likes, shares and comments on Suluma’s Facebook page. Pano Patasvika has come out to be the video of the week on the national television Sunday Edition news.

“Facebook has provided a platform to keep in touch with those who have supported our music over the years. I am honoured to have an amazing fan base that likes, shares, and comments on the platform making the music reach thousands in literal minutes. It also made it as the video of the week last Sunday on the national television. That’s a blessing indeed,” she said.

Suluma described the song as a song of hope that will restore our belief in Zimbabwe and that God will be the one to intervene in our situation.

“I am looking forward to a change in the economy of Zimbabwe that will enable music to be profitable so that musicians can also have a means of living,” she said.

Chat with Sis Noe: I don’t enjoy sex with hubby

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couple unhappy

Hi Sis Noe
I HAVE been married for six months but I am still not pregnant. What is wrong with me? Help please, I am worried. — Worried.

Reply
Don’t you think it’s too soon to be anxious? I mean it’s only six months to be desperate. Pregnancy is a matter of chance. Conception does not always happen even if the egg and sperm are in the right place at the right time.

The length of time it takes couples to conceive varies considerably. Failing to conceive even after a year does not necessarily mean that something is wrong. The chance of getting pregnant during a woman’s cycle varies due to a wide range of factors: For a woman aged 20 to 25, the chances of conceiving are around 25 percent for each cycle.

Statistics prove that one in 10 couples will take more than a year to conceive. One of the secret tips on getting pregnant really involves the woman’s monthly cycle . . . this should really not come as a surprise, but lots of women have probably forgotten lots of their basic biology. A woman ovulates once a month, and the ovum or egg lasts for approximately 12 hours. During this 12-hour period, the egg has to be fertilised or it dries up and is no longer viable. Obviously, then, having unprotected sex any other time of the month could not possibly result in conception. It is only when you have sex during the 12-HOUR WINDOW that a couple can conceive — it’s really quite miraculous that a woman can even get pregnant at all! When a couple is trying to conceive, the trick is to catch the egg around day 14 of the woman’s monthly cycle. To add to the difficulty, every woman’s cycle is different.

The 28-day cycle is the average, but normal cycles can vary from 23 days to 35 days. So please stop worrying, keep going at it like rabbits. Hopefully before long there will be a bun in the oven.

Hi Sis Noe
Is it true that you can get pregnant while on the pill and what are the chances of that happening?

Reply
Yes, you can get pregnant while on the pill. There are a number of reasons why a woman on birth control pills could become pregnant. The most common is that she neglects to take the pill on one or more days. Depending on how busy your lifestyle is or how frequently you renew your birth control pill prescription, it can be easy to forget to go to the drug store and then delay starting a new package — while still being sexually active.

Another mistake that women sometimes make is taking the pill at different times on different days. Birth control pills should be taken at the same time every day. It is admittedly inconvenient to have to take a pill every single day, always at about the same time — but this is essential to ensure that birth control pills work successfully to prevent pregnancy.

Also, birth control pills are sometimes affected by other medications. Certain antibiotics, anti-seizure and anti-fungal medications have been linked to reduced effectiveness in birth control pills, along with some herbs and vitamins. Before your physician prescribes any new medication, make sure to let her or him know that you are on the pill, to avoid any potential problems.

 Hi Sis Noe
I am in love with my first cousin but I want to know whether it is really wrong to be with her? I want to marry her but we are afraid people will not understand. — Help.

Reply
By my understanding a first cousin is the daughter or son of an uncle or aunt. To your question — negative reactions to cousins who pair off stem largely from the belief that children from such relationships may have physical and/or mental abnormalities. Newborns with genetic disorders such as spina bifida or cystic fibrosis are more likely to be born of blood relatives because previously unexpressed recessive genes are more likely to appear.

First cousins are two-times more likely to bear offspring with a birth defect than children born of couples who don’t share a common grandparent. If cousin couples happen to be carrying known genetic diseases, the risks faced by their offspring can be high.

Legally it is a crime to date and to have sex with your first cousin so if you are discovered you might go to jail. Morally its taboo to be with your first cousin, society will frown upon your relationship. You are in an ugly relationship, get out of it now.

HATCHED: Kingdom Ambassadors Gospel Group releases jaw-dropping album

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Kingdom Ambassadors Gospel Group

Kingdom Ambassadors Gospel Group

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
PUMULA-BASED gospel ensemble, Kingdom Ambassadors Gospel Group has released a divine debut album titled Africa Back to God.

The album carries notable themes of self-determination, endurance, ambitiousness and perseverance in a quest of driving Africans in believing in their abilities and talents.

It consists of nine songs namely Umbuzo ngowakho, Amahlathi aphelile, Ngcwele, Phakama Joshua, Sigeziwe thina, Umzalwane Uyincwadi, Ngazozonke, They that want and the album lead song, Africa back to God.

During the festive season, criminal and illegal activities seem to be the order of the day and this album’s motive is to bring people closer to God during this time.

Ambassadors group leader, Bencuter Mathobela who penned all songs said the album was a reminder for people to remain strong and determined when faced with difficulties.

“Africa back to God is not just music, but its music that carries a very important message. The song Phakama Joshua motivates people to stand up and face their biggest problems just like Joshua who conquered his fears and led the Israelites when Moses had passed away. Songs like Ngcwele advises fans to stay away from illegal activities and remain loyal to God,” he said.

The album was recorded by the House of Rising Sounds Studios and produced by Joe Maseko. Simba (KOD) did the voice capturing.

The sensational group consists of seven talented superstars from the Assemblies of God. There are five members from Mathobela family namely Khulani, Zibusiso, Priviledge, Sibongubuhle and group leader Bencuter Mathobela.

Two members namely Philani Ncube and Buhle Ngwenya joined the Mathobelas when they met at the Assembies of God as they are also incredible singers. Mathobela said music talent ran through their family.

“Almost everyone from Mathobela family is very much gifted in music. We are all passionate about singing. Music has a healing effect; it soothes a heart in pain, motivates us to do greater things in the future as well as encourage people to forgive others as mistakes are common everywhere across the globe,” he said.

What makes the group a very distinguished gospel group of all time is that the last member of the group, Sibongubuhle is a three-year-old beautiful girl with a melodious voice which can heal a broken heart. There is no doubt the talented youngster will have a fruitful and splendid career in music.

Mathobela said the group has faced financial difficulties in the production of their debut album and was hopeful to receive support from anyone who was willing to help.

“This album could have been launched sooner if we were financially steady. I encourage fans to purchase our music online and buy original CDs which will make us move forward and continue producing music. For those who want to know detailed information about us they can visit our Facebook Page Kingdom Ambassadors Gospel Group,” he said.

@NcubeBhekumuzi


Xtra Large releases The Truth album

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Extra Large

Extra Large

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
POPULAR urban grooves duo Extra Large, seem to have hit the right chords with their recent released album dubbed The Truth.

The duo of Jimmy Mangezi and Norman Manwere was stung hard by criticism and their album is just the perfect fit for their versatility in the music industry which has revived their limelight once more. The duo has been around for quite a while consistently churning out good music, but their existence was being questioned due to the rise of Zim dancehall.

“Extra Large never went silent, we have been around and relevant. Urban grooves never went under any genre, we believe music is a mission and not a competition so as much as there has been a shift of attention from our genre, our music has always been appealing. People have always listened to our music and The Truth is a revelation of our existence,” Mangezi said.

The album has so far been released on radio on various radio stations around the country. It was first released on 7 November on Tione Cake, a local radio station in the capital. Since then the duo has been doing radio releases on other radio stations.

“So far we have been doing radio releases which have seen a quite lot of airplay. We did our first release on Tione Cake, then on Power FM, National FM, Radio Zim and we are still doing our radio release until now. We hope that by the time we do our official launch we would have toured or been interviewed in almost all the radio station nationwide,” Mangezi said.

“We are planning for our launch probably during this festive season as it has been difficult to get clearance due to the recent events that have been taking place around the country, but now that things have settled down we would be announcing our official launch soon. The launch will be a unique one because a local company is coming on board and funding the launch though we can not disclose it yet,” he added.

Mangezi is optimistic about their album release which has afforded to win people’s hearts.

“We are really excited now that The Truth is finally out because people where getting impatient and it’s so amazing to actually realise that we are still favourites of many and our music is still appreciated and listened too,” he said.

“Our songs are already popular on the radio stations especially the track “Msoro Bhangu” which features Sani Makhalima as well as on Power FM its receiving quite a favourable amount of airplay. Ndakuwana is also another track which has been topping the charts on Power FM,” he said.

Mangezi said the message that is embodied in their latest album seem to be slowly penetrating into fans.

“We have a track titled Papi Pacho which features Stunner and Bashupi, this track clearly explains the title of the album and theme. It also has an amazing video which will play a part in revitalising urban grooves as a genre. We urge fans to also look for the video as it is appealing,” he said.

The album has 14 tracks with prominent artistes who include Stunner the rap king, Trevor Dongo, Ras Caleb, Sani Makhalima, Bashupi among others.

Blood Tongue the Musical goes to Mzansi

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Noma Damasane

Noma Damasane

Rumbidzai Mbewe, Sunday Life Correspondent
The stirring theatre production Blood Tongue, The Musical is an exciting collaboration between Zimbabwean and South African artistes, brewed in rehearsals since October at Bluez Café in Bulawayo.

The play has been blazing a trail through Zimbabwe and now has been invited to a vibrant festival in Mpumalanga, South Africa this month.  Blood Tongue, The Musical a play written by the award-winning Zimbabwean playwright and author, Christopher Mlalazi, produced by Nhimbe Trust, explores the struggles of a strong willed woman in present-day Zimbabwe.

The musical has been invited to the Emalahleni Artists Preserving Heritage Festival (Ubuntu) to be held at the Emalahleni Civic Theatre, in Mpumalanga, South Africa on 8-9 December. The organiser of the festival, the Alexandra Youth in Action Ensemble, is a non-profit organisation based in Alexandra Township, who focuses on tolerance, rehabilitation and eradication of poverty through community theatre.

The Executive Director of Nhimbe Trust and producer, Josh Nyapimbi, said the festival will create opportunities that explore and celebrate the South African heritage and cultural exchange. He said it will not only celebrate the South Africa culture but the Zimbabwean culture embedded in the musical play Blood Tongues.

“The festival will also give a platform and an opportunity to community artists to showcase and promote their work,” he said.

Nyapimbi also said it was an honour for the cast to have been invited to the festival as it exposes the Zimbabwean artistes to the South African market.

He said the collaboration of the play empowers women in theatre from the Nhimbe Trust.

“It’s a great honour to be invited to showcase Blood Tongue — The Musical in SA. The cast is overjoyed at the opportunities share, learn and exchange with their South African peers. The play also empowers other Zimbabwean practitioners by demonstrating the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary skills-set in commercial musical theatre production,” he said.

The play has been touring the country since 12 November. Nyapimbi said the performances will be rescheduled in partnership with Theatre in the Park, Harare and Pakare Paye Arts Centre, Norton.

“The local tour started on 12 November at Bulawayo Theatre with a great response, and moved on to the Charles Austin Theatre, Masvingo. The Harare and Norton shows were cancelled because of the political events that began to unfold in the capital as Zimbabweans welcomed the winds of change,” he said.

Blood Tongue is directed by Eunice Tava in collaboration with South African music directors Bafana Dladla, and pianist Tshepo Pheko of the South African music group Generation2Generation. The Zimbabwean cast includes Bulawayo actresses Musa Sibanda, Noma Damasane, Rea Moyo and Bonakele Agnes Ncube.

Stunner joins new stable

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Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
HARARE’s hip-hop super star, Stunner real name Desmond Chideme has signed under a new UK-based record label which will see him taking a step further in his music career.

Koko Records is a brainchild of African renowned songwriter and entrepreneur, Isabella Mashavira.

“The Koko Records brings international exposure and with a goal to influence lifestyle and global sound, our fans can be assured that there will never be any dip in our quality anymore,” Stunner said.

Stunner said his record label Tazoita Cash records will still function as it has always been and his exposure with the Koko Records will also benefit the signed artistes under his stable.

“Koko Records is still discussing way forward with the Tazoita cash artistes and they will soon be launching in style the faces of Koko Records which is a good exposure for the artistes as well. We are soon to be launching Koko Records. We are still working on our hot single as soon as we release it we will be announcing the dates for the launch as well as the venue of the launch, but I urge people to keep expecting something nice and on point.

“I’m quite impressed with the way our artistes have adjusted to the changes that are taking place. The artistes are looking forward to the international exposure that they are going to receive from this particular stable,” he said.

Stunner described the record label as one of the best international stables.

“Just like me Koko Records offers the same goals and vision that I have as it seeks to support and develop the future generation. It also caters for all genres, as time goes on you will be seeing the upcoming projects that are in store for music lovers,” Stunner said.

He also highlighted his ongoing project with the recording label. “We have already started working on my international collaborations which I can’t mention now so I say it’s a big step in the right direction for me and the rest of the Tazoita cash members,” he said.

Intwasa organisers seek redemption

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Carl Joshua Ncube

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
INTWASA festival is back with another annual arts feast, Intwasa Extra, which is set to win public support with its star-studded line up. The four-day event will take centre stage from 28 to 31 December.

Intwasa Extra is a spill over programme from the main Intwasa Arts Festival koBulawayo that takes place every year during the month of September in Bulawayo.

The four-day arts extravaganza will take place under the theme “Celebrating a New Era” and is basically a festive season festival bonus prepared especially for regular festival audiences and those that missed the September festival.

Intwasa Press liaison Raisedon Baya said Intwasa Extra is aimed at celebrating human creativity and diversity, to empower women and young people through the arts, to provide new markets and collaborative opportunities for local artistes and technical people as well as welcome the new era Zimbabwe had just entered.

“Intwasa organisers are also using this opportunity to bring the comedy night which, due to unforeseen circumstances did not take place in September. But most importantly it is to celebrate Zimbabwean people’s resilience against hardship and welcoming the new feeling of hope that has engulfed the country. Intwasa Extra is using about six arts genres, namely theatre, music, poetry, comedy, dance and arts and craft to celebrate with the rest of the country,” he said.

Baya said the opening day of the event will see a special comedy night dubbed The Night of Great Comedy. The promising event will see a strong line-up of local comedians who, throughout the year, have been at the top of their game pushing the genre of comedy in and outside Zimbabwe.

“The impressive line-up includes the globe-trotting and trend setting Carl Joshua Ncube, the evergreen Doc Vikela, the Bulawayo Arts Awards comedian of the year Ntando Van Moyo, Mandla Simbarashe and Skhanyiso. The growth of comedy in Zimbabwe has mainly been driven by some of the comedy in the line-up. Expect new jokes and fireworks. Watch them live as Bulawayo counts down the year 2017,” he said.

Ihloka play which premièred at this year’s Intwasa Festival is set to be yet again performed by Umkhathi Theatre. The play was written by Thabani Hillary Moyo and directed by Matesu Dube.

Baya said the play was included by Intwasa Extra due to public demand.

“Ihloka is a sensationally provocative and emotive piece inspired by the Ndebele uprising against Cecil John Rhodes and white colonialists. It is back by popular demand and a must see for those that love a powerful story,” he said.

A new play titled The Arrangement is set to be premièred on 30 December at Bulawayo Theatre.

The play is Baya’s fast-paced and witty re-imagination of Ganesh Bagshi’s 1960’s story about young love and the fear of commitment.

The play was set in Zimbabwe and is imaginatively brought to life by a young and dynamic cast under the Centre for Talent Development.

However, the highlight of this extravaganza is the ever popular Women, Wine & Words with a new line-up of lead performers in the form of guitarist Tariro Negitare, rising stars Thandi Dlana, and poets Xtreme, So Profound and Harare-based poet Wadzanai Chiuriri.

Rounding up the programme is the Arts and Craft Market, designed for those who are looking for something uniquely Zimbabwean to buy for family and friends.

Last but not least is the Open Mic Poetry session mainly for young and aspiring poets. The poetry is in partnership with Arts Hub Zimbabwe and Patsime Trust. The open mic is open to all young poets who want to present a piece or two.

Seasoned poets such as Sypho, Asa, Izwi, Afro and Madzitateguru will feature as guest poets on the platform. The theme of the poetry slam will be “My Zim Vision” and DJ Battle is set to perform on the eve of 2018.

Baya thanked the support and generosity of Open Society Initiative of Southern Africa (OSISA) who have contributed to make Intwasa Extra possible.

@NcubeBhekumuzi

Zodwa Wabantu says lover younger, but not a Ben 10

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Zodwa Wabantu

Zodwa Wabantu

ZODWA WABANTU has revealed that she is currently off the market and has found a younger man to keep her warm at night.

Speaking to TshisaLIVE‚ Zodwa couldn’t help but gush over her new-found love interest‚ explaining that it has been a few weeks since she started dating again.

“He is not in the industry. He is a banker and he is not attracted to my fame. Actually‚ we met before I was famous and then we lost contact. He messaged me and we started hanging out again but he is not with me for my fame.”

Zodwa said that she would never get married and was just taking everything one step at a time.

“He is fun but he is not husband material. We are just hanging out. He comes to my shows‚ we eat‚ we drink and we do a whole lot of other things together. It is just someone to talk to.”

Although she was shy to dish any more details around their romance‚ she did reveal that her man is younger than her‚ but said she didn’t consider him a “not a Ben 10”

“He is younger but I am not worried about the age gap. You know that I don’t care what people say,” she said.— SundayWorld.co.za

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