Soneni Gwizi

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
Disability does not always mean inability. This has always been a golden story for one of Zimbabwe’s celebrated motivational speaker, broadcaster and disability activist, Soneni Gwizi.

Not letting her condition discourage her, Gwizi has broken stereotypes lashed upon people with disabilities and her great works have been recognised not only in Africa but the world at large.

Recently appointed as the Action on Disability and Development (ADD) ambassador Gwizi has proved that no condition can downplay a strong hell-bent passion that she has carried within her all her life.

ADD International is a disability rights organisation based in United Kingdom which partners with disability activists in Africa and Asia to build powerful movements for change.

Gwizi said she was humbled by the gesture of ADD International which did not only choose her to carry the huge task but the fact that they chose a female representative for the role.

“I am humbled to have been appointed the ADD ambassador, this is a huge responsibility but I know I can manage it because of the excellent vision that the organisation equips disability activists from Africa and Asia with. I am very excited that they chose a woman to be their International Ambassador breaking the gender norms showing that disabled women can also perform equally to the male counterparts,” she said.

Gwizi told Sunday Life that during her one-year term as ambassador she will continue to play her part in making the world a disabled friendly place.

“My responsibility is to continue to be the voice of people with disabilities and influencing both non-disabled citizens and people with disabilities on policies that need to be seriously actioned and implemented in Zimbabwe and other countries,” Gwizi said.

ADD International relationship manager, Paula Alionyte said Gwizi’s work has always not gone unnoticed hence the decision to appoint her as their brand ambassador.

“We always look for disability activists that could join forces, we have noticed that Soneni’s active engagement on Twitter and her work to fight discrimination and ensure that every disabled person gets a fighting chance at living their best life. Gwizi has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to discussing disability issues and inclusion, and we believe that she will do a great job by lending her voice and profile to shining a spotlight on the vital work of disability activists in Africa and Asia,” she said.

Floppy X

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
AFTER outshining rivalries in last year’s Skyz Metro FM awards when his song Ngidakwe Ngihambe Ngeface bagged the song of the year gong, Floppy X is back and determined to make 2018 unforgettable as well as surpass last year’s achievements.

The Ingwebu ambassador recently dropped a single titled Duduzile featuring Slow Down. The track which has a profound theme of comfort promises to make it as part of Floppy X’s best collection as it is being played on local radio stations days after being officially released.

The award winning rapper said after hogging the limelight last year, he took a break from producing music as he was celebrating last year’s accomplishments.

“Last year was incredible. From launching my debut album to winning an award was extremely special. I have been resting all this time, reflecting on the amazing things that unfolded in 2017. I am very thankful to the people who voted for me last year and are still supporting me. I am motivated and determined to keep making them happy by releasing mouthwatering projects.”

The rapper who usually calls himself the “rap god” said he was happy with the progress of arts appreciation in the City of Kings.

“Bulawayo has proven to be a proud supporter of arts. The hype of this year’s Bulawayo Arts Awards is gradually reaching all the streets of the city of royalty. It makes us happy as artistes that fans are so in love with projects delivered to them. My wish is for fans to keep supporting the arts industry as well as local artistes. Massive support from fans will create a reinforced foundation for local artistes to compete worldwide,” he said.

Floppy X said Cal_Vin’s Revenge of The Vin album is directed to him and winners of national hip-hop awards that took centre stage last year in which Cal_Vin walked away empty handed.

“Cal_Vin is the king of rap and I am the rap god. People have been asking who is better between Cal_Vin and Floppy X, but honestly I have never thought of competing against Cal_Vin.

However, Cal_Vin named his album Revenge of the Vin because he didn’t end the year on a high note. It’s clear that with his album, he will be aiming to scoop more gongs this year,” he said.

Hi Sis Noe
I AM a 50-year-old woman in a relationship with a man 10 years younger than me. He is sexually inexperienced. He cannot ejaculate during intercourse and I have also tried with my hand and mouth without success. He feels like a failure and has stopped initiating intercourse — he says he fears I will leave him. This relationship is precious to me but he does not want to seek help. He only ejaculates when he masturbates. — Starving.

Reply
I suspect he is experiencing retrograde ejaculation (where semen is routed inwards). Some men have difficulty climaxing with a partner, and often that is because they need more intense stimulation to reach orgasm than is normally provided by a mouth, hand or vagina. Such men may have become used to masturbating with something like a rough towel, and have never quite managed to switch to partner-sex. Engage in love-making that does not place an emphasis on orgasm. Instead, make the goal simply to give and get more pleasure. Ask him to show you exactly how he stimulates himself.

Then, while making love, encourage him to help himself to climax. In time, you may be able to place your hand over his to learn and eventually manage it yourself — if it still matters.

Hi Sis Noe
I am a 30-year-old father of one. I am failing to have sex with my wife because she has vestibulitis. Since the birth of our first child last year, her condition has worsened and she has lost all interest in having sex and does not want to be treated. — Worried.

Reply
Encourage your wife to persevere in seeking appropriate treatment, so she can enjoy intercourse again, and try to pleasure each other in other ways.

Bear in mind she may also have lowered desire post-partum, which is very common. I am not surprised she is giving up, because sufferers of vestibulitis, or any kind of vulva disease, can experience severe pain during intercourse, spasms, urethral irritation, constipation, incontinence or diarrhoea, and very often the entire pelvic region is affected. Many women suffer from this condition, which requires understanding, a correct diagnosis and satisfactory treatment. Look for a doctor with the expertise and patience your wife needs. Have sex therapy together — you both deserve the right help.

Hi Sis Noe
I am a 30-year-old woman who has always enjoyed a good sex life. However, I have been unable to orgasm during intercourse and experience little sensation when penetrated, although it feels good. I have always been able to reach orgasm when I rub my clitoris when masturbating. Have I damaged myself? — Worried.

Reply
There is nothing wrong with you. Although it is highly pleasurable, intercourse alone does not provide sufficient stimulation to bring many women to orgasm. The nerve endings in a woman’s genital region are concentrated on the clitoris, so it makes sense that the centre — as well as the area in the upper wall of the vagina known as the G-spot — triggers orgasm. There has been much misunderstanding about this, and women have been made to feel anxious about what is normal (this is where “faking it” comes in). But that is how women are designed: the clitoris is the only human organ of which the sole function is pleasure. Men who feel inadequate because they are unable to bring their partners to orgasm through intercourse alone should be reminded that they have tongues and fingers. Also, clitoral orgasm extends to the entire genital region. To experience an orgasm during thrusting, ask your partner for additional clitoral stimulation and experiment with different positions to stimulate your G-spot.

Hi Sis Noe
My boyfriend is five years younger than me and he is very much in love with me, but does not seem to understand a woman’s body. He is clumsy and does not know where and what to touch. What can I do to improve this? He is reluctant to talk about the situation — it seems impossible to address it without making him feel he is lacking in some way. Is the age difference the problem? — Worried.

Reply
You are both consenting adults I believe, so age is not the issue here and it rarely is. Sex is a learned experience and we all rely on gleaning information from our partners. Every woman is different, so you must subtly try to teach this man how to please you, by showing him what you like, then praising and rewarding him when he gets it right. Avoid criticising him. When a man as sensitive as he is does something you don’t enjoy, you must still let him know — but use encouraging language. You can also achieve greater satisfaction with this man by assuming more responsibility for your own pleasure.

Try taking the initiative during sex. Like most women, you have probably learned to be quite passive in bed, but that is not necessary. Getting on top or being in charge can not only be a great way to ensure your own orgasm, but it can be a massive turn-on for him too.

SOULMATES
I am a lady aged 39, looking for a soulmate aged 43-45 who is on ART. I have four kids. The man should be from Bulawayo.

I am a 44-year-old widow with two kids. I am in the civil service, looking for a male friend who must be financially sound aged between 46 and above.

I am a 25-year-old HIV-positive woman based in Harare. I want to date a man of the same status who is also based in Harare or surrounding areas.

I am a single lady aged 40 looking for a single man who is ready for marriage.

I am a man who is aged 45, looking for a lady to love.

I am a 50-year-old woman, I need your help. I want a good man who is steady, serious, aged 49 to 59.

I am a lady aged 32, HIV-negative and with three kids. I am looking for a serious man who is between the ages of 35 to 42 with his own kids too. I want a man who is God-fearing, and who works because I am a civil servant.

I’m looking for a man who stays in Bulawayo, who is working, who wants a serious relationship that will lead to marriage. He should be 30 and above.

I am 28-year-old man in a wheelchair and I need a woman aged 25 to 30 to date.
Ngileminyaka engu-36, ngidinga olothando owesifazana okoBulawayo and surrounding areas. Ngingubaba ohlala yedwa. Singakhuluma ku-app or call ku-number yami.

I am a mother of one, may you please connect me with a mature guy who needs a serious relationship between the ages of 29 to 32. I am 27 and HIV-negative in Bulawayo.

I’m Zenzo aged 34, looking for a soulmate to marry. I don’t care whether HIV positive or not. I am negative.

I am a 27-year-old woman, HIV-negative looking for a man to date. I am from Bulawayo but I work in Gwanda.

I am a 25-year-old man. I need a woman to date aged from 20-23. I am in Bulawayo, please connect me with a serious woman.

I am a guy aged 30 looking for a single lady between 20 and 25. I am from Gweru.

I am a lady aged 30 with one kid. I need to settle down, never been married. I am a Christian hence I need a faithful Christian man who is aged 34- 38.

I am a 43-year-old professional mother of two looking for a single guy from 40 to 50 who wants a committed relationship, must be prepared to go to the New Start.

NOTICE
For the contact details of the above people, send a WhatsApp message to the number 0773111328. SMSes attract a charge in the form of Buddie airtime worth a $1. No calls will be entertained.

Cal_vin

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
PERHAPS the genuine gesture of showing the world, fans or people that there are no squabbles, beefs, hostilities or hatred among artistes, collaborations have been a rare occasion between Bulawayo and Harare musicians.

Duets brush and squash disturbing rumours, doubts and misunderstandings from haters and even fans assuming their beloved artistes are involved in conflicts. They portray a united and healthy arts industry as well as bring the country together as peace among artistes is peace among fans.

Despite collabos being so important in bringing societies together, Harare and Bulawayo artistes have failed to be involved in many duets that will facilitate unity in the big cities of Zimbabwe.

The two beautiful cities boast of incredible and thriving superstars who have made it in the country while others have gone on to show their expertise to the rest of Africa. These include the likes of Jah Prayzah, Winky D, Ammara Brown, Cal_Vin, Madlela Sikhobokhobo, Andy Muridzo, ExQ, Iyasa, Nobuntu and Sandra Ndebele.

Jah Prayzah has been involved in spectacular projects with Africa’s best superstars. He teamed up with Nigeria’s leading musician, Davido. He also worked with the queen of pop, Yemi Alade for the topping chart hit, Nziyo Yerudo. As if that wasn’t enough, the Kutonga Kwaro hit maker also teamed up with Diamond Platinumz and world acclaimed duo, Mafikizolo.

Dancehall king, Winky D’s latest album featured Jamaican maestro, Bennie Man while songbird Ammara’s Ammartia album featured the late trumpeter, Hugh Masekela.

The same goes for Bulawayo artistes who despite the lack of collabos with Harare superstars, have been busy teaming up with South African artistes.

Award winning rapper, Cal_Vin once teamed up with the richest rapper of South Africa who has attracted all corners of Africa, Cassper Nyovest.

Sandra Ndebele announced she was working with Jah Prayzah for a project that was supposed to be dropped last year. That promise was never fulfilled as Sandra is yet to collaborate with the soldier of music. It was quite unclear what blocked the two superstars from teaming up for a sensational hit.

However, instead of teaming up with Jah Prayzah, the Ingoma hit maker joined forces with South Africa’s kwaito star, Mkhonzeni “Professor” Langa for the hit Lizwile whose video was timely dropped on this year’s Valentine’s Day.

Bulawayo and Harare artistes have only been teaming up in various concerts for instance at Kalawa Homecoming, Winky D shared the stage with the likes of Mzoe7 and Sandra Ndebele.

Maybe it is a case of Harare music giants undermining Bulawayo artistes that is slowing the process of seeing duets between the artistes since the city of royalty’s superstars have struggled to hog the limelight at national level.

The Z’khuphani hit maker, Cal_Vin who once collaborated with Stunner and ExQ said he has always been looking forward working with Harare artistes as he had no beef or squabbles with any of them.

“It’s very important that Bulawayo and Harare artistes join forces so we can help each other shine across Africa. We learn a lot of skills in duets. Harare has artistes who have teamed up with top African artistes. It will be special if they also team up with Bulawayo artistes to share what they have gained from international superstars. The same goes with Bulawayo artistes; they should communicate with Harare artistes so as to facilitate the making of sensational collabos,” he said. — @NcubeBhekumuzi

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
COMMISSIONED by the former Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and now Vice-President of Zimbabwe Constantino Chiwenga, Chinhoyi 7 biotic war film is fast becoming the talk of the moment.
A few weeks ago, Black Panther movie brought the world to a standstill; social media was ablaze before and after the movie was premièred.

Zimbabweans celebrated actress Danai Gurira’s feature in the blockbuster film while many people were admiring the incredibility of the project.

While memories of Black Panther are still fresh and others are yet to watch the movie, it seems the Chinhoyi 7 film is attracting all the corners of Zimbabwe as its première date nears.

The film is based on true events of the Chinhoyi Seven that saw seven liberation war fighters namely David Guzuzu, Arthur Maramba, Christopher Chatambudza, Simon Chingosha Nyandoro, Godfrey Manyerenyere, Godwin Dube and Chubby Savanhu challenge Ian Smith regime after a successful journey from Zambia in 1966.

Written by Moses Matanda and produced by United Kingdom-based Tawanda Sarireni, Chinhoyi 7 promises to be a hit. Movie lovers are already relishing for an unforgettable night when they throng the famous Ster-Kinekor cinemas in Zimbabwe.

The movie was first reported to be in the making in 2014. With the help of Zimbabwe Defence Forces and Honde Valley Television, the movie will be first premièred at Ster-Kinekor in Borrowdale, Harare from 1800hrs on 16 March.

What makes the movie so special is the fact that it features renowned artistes that include the likes of Albert Nyathi, Fungai Zvakavapano Mashavane, British actor Julian Shaw, Greg Brown and Cynthia Stone from Canada. Poet Nyathi popularly known for his poetic hit song plays the role of the late former Vice-President of Zimbabwe, Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo.

With such a star-studded line-up, the movie promises to be the first of its kind that will be talked about for years to come. It is set to bring the bravery of the Chinhoyi Seven fighters to life and enlighten children about the political history of Zimbabwe which many are not aware of.

The Chinhoyi Seven fighters were reportedly cornered and killed when they ran out of ammunition, however, their brave action has been credited for starting the second Chimurenga war that culminated in the Independence of Zimbabwe in 1980.

With days left to the official première of the much anticipated movie, Zimbabwe Defence Forces spokesperson Colonel Overson Mugwisi encouraged Zimbabweans to bring their families and loved ones to Ster-Kinekor cinemas to support local stars as well as learn, and be reminded of the revolutionary history of Zimbabwe.

“Nothing can stop the movie from rocking cinemas now. It is a national movie and there is no age restriction. The movie will help revisit our revolutionary history, where we come from and where we are going. Zimbabweans should be aware of the struggles and pain faced by our national heroes. The movie will help educate children their political history as well as ignite our Zimbabwean pride,” he said.

Colonel Mugwisi said all Zimbabweans were going to have the chance to watch the movie as it was very important for them to be reminded of their origins.

“After the movie is premièred in Harare, probably the following day the movie will make its debut in Bulawayo. If there are any changes members of the media will be notified or updated for them to also pass on the message to the fans waiting to watch the movie. Everyone needs to see the movie. It’s a beautiful movie that will keep the audience entertained,” he said. -@NcubeBhekumuzi

Hwabaraty

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
VERSATILE artiste hailing from Njube, Japhet Mlauzi, known as Hwabaraty has made it his top priority to nurture and develop talents of young people from Zimbabwe and beyond as the future of arts rests in them.

A musician cum actor brings a blissful resume and a repertoire of experience from which his protégés can enjoy his mentorship. Having toured France, Italy, Spain and Sierra Leone, he is not new to the world of performing arts hence his passion for arts has driven him to mentor and accumulate upcoming artistes both at individual level and within corporate circles.

In 2014, Hwabaraty officially opened an organisation which has been helping a number of young people since then. He has managed to mentor over 100 young people who have done fairly well in the arts industry for instance Andile Ncube, a 17-year-old talented artiste who is now part of Jeys

Marabini’s band and Munya Mandaza aka Creezy who has established a name for himself in hip-hop.

Creezy said he was thankful for the help he received from Hwabaraty and was determined to make him proud. Sunday Life contacted Hwabaraty to ask him what inspired him to establish an organisation which has helped many young people. He said the inspiration was brought about the endless efforts that Patrice Naiambana and Jeys Marabini put on to help him rise to stardom.

“It’s all thanks to Patrice Naiambana and Jeys Marabini who took their time to mentor me and unlock some of the things that I did not know I can do and they so much contributed to what I have become. The only way that I could thank them was to follow in their footsteps and help other young people in different places unleash the things that they do not know that they can be able to do and many have came with testimonies,” he added.

Hwabaraty said he was aiming at mentoring upcoming artistes from Zimbabwe and beyond in a bid to show the world that Africa is land full of talent.

“In South Africa I have engaged with other youngsters’ who call themselves Fresh Crew which runs the same vision as mine that is helping young people become the best. Together we have helped many young artistes in South Africa. I encourage other top artistes to be involved in campaigns that will benefit fresh talents,” he added. -@kayskudzai

Obey Masihoro

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
ONE of the best lyricists and ultimate game changers in the history of hip-hop popularly known for his amazing punch lines and explosive hits that attracted all continents, the late Tupac Amaru Shakur has inspired a Bulawayo born artiste, Obey “Obby” Masihoro to record his first ever single titled God Blessed.

Based in Emgawini suburb, Obby said the song that promises to be a hit, talks about the incredible tidings God is giving us on daily basis.

“We are breathing because of God’s grace. We have food and shelter which helps us survive. The Lord always protects us from harmful aspects as well as forgive us despite sinning countless times. We are who we are today because we have been blessed by the Lord. Therefore people need to be thankful for the precious things that God has offered us,” he said.

Obby’s latest offering has already attracted attention from Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation who recently invited the potential hip-hop icon as a guest artiste. Obby said he was shocked to receive a call from ZBC for an interview.

“I received a call from ZBC telling me that I was selected as the Lunchtime News guest artiste. I was astounded and at the same time happy that my career is shaping up. I’m hopefully that the Bulawayo family will fall in love with my music because without them I will not thrive,” he said.

The Christian rapper who is determined to make a name for himself in the industry said he is currently working on his debut album.

“I’m working on an album featuring South Africa-based artiste King Rodney Killemol, Mthalic banks, and our very own local DJ Stinah. The album will be dropped very soon. I working extra hard to make sure that everything is set on the day of the album launch,” he said.

More is yet to be seen from this young talented Obby whose passion for arts started at an early age as a spoken word poet. —@NcubeBhekumuzi

Clive “Mono” Mukundu

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
REOWNED jazz artiste and producer Clive “Mono” Mukundu is set to celebrate 30 years in arts in a unique event in which fans will be treated to a triple launch on 21 March at Theatre in the Park, Harare.

Being one of the most recorded artistes in the country, Mukundu said the triple launch was inspired by the three decades that he has managed to stay relevant in the arts industry.

“I made it triple so as to signify the three decades that I have put in the music industry which have been more than a success story for me though I cannot say I am the best, but I try my best by always practicing and researching more to strive for the best,” Mukundu said.

The award-winning artiste will be launching his 10th album together with the Zim guitar tutorial DVD which is perhaps the first in the country and his second book “Poor and famous”.

“People should look forward to this big day as I will be launching my 10th album ‘Acoustic re-visit’ which has a different sound from the other albums in the sense that I played acoustic instruments only, instead of playing electric guitars like I always do,” he said.

“I will also launch my second book Poor and famous which is basically an insider view of Zimbabwean music industry and mostly the first Zim guitar tutorial DVD in which I saw a gap that they was no such recording for Zim guitarist,” he said.

On the day of the celebration Mukundu will be joined by fellow artistes who will provide entertainment and help celebrate his biggest achievement in the arts industry.

“I’m excited about this big day because I will not only celebrate this big day with my fans but will be joined by a few artistes who will provide entertainment, and then I will make presentations introducing the works I will be launching,” he said.

Having featured in over 700 local and international albums Mukundu shared a rundown of his achievements in the industry.

“Over the three decades I have gained a lot of experience both as a musician and music producer. I have managed to start a music studio project and to build a name for myself which have benefited most of the artistes in the country,” he said.

In his 30 years as an artiste Mukundu has played the guitar for almost all the music legends in Zimbabwe including Oliver Mtukudzi, Thomas Mapfumo and Andy Brown, among others and has produced for many artistes including Richard of the Zviri Kumbofamba Sei fame and Kambo Music.

Sebastian Magacha

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
ZIMBABWE’s celebrated gospel artiste Sabastian Magacha has vowed to stay relevant after a three-year sabbatical as he dropped a sizzling video Mweya Mutsvene featuring Jah Prayzah from his latest album Wonererwai Jeso.

The track Mweya Mutsvene has been topping the charts on most national radio stations and has received a lot of positive feedback from his fans.
Magacha told Sunday Life that the song was inspired by different situations that people face in life and the visuals in the video seek to highlight those issues and how one can overcome them through Christ.

“The song was inspired by situations faced in life that we are not able to manage on our own, so many times the devil tries to bring us down. But the Lord has given us a vehicle to overcome this in the form of the Holy Spirit that protects and carries us on our journey. The concept of the video has the kombi as the holy spirit picking up people of different denominations and carrying them on their journey through life,” he said.

The video was filmed by UK-based Director Producer Muchengeti Madhovi who flew down specifically to work on this project.

“Madhovi was excited to work with Sabastian Magacha and Jah Prayzah as his first project in Zimbabwe. When asked he said he immediately connected to the song and jumped at the opportunity as a way to reconnect with his country,” Gibbons said.

His manager Lesley Gibbons who spoke highly of the award-winning artiste said Magacha has big plans for his music career and people should look forward to more amazing works from him as so much is in store for his fans.

“Wonererwai Jeso saw him exploring a different direction with songs featuring artists like the Sungura king Aleck Macheso and Prudence Katomene Mbofana. His mission is to bring the message to all, believers, non-believers and people should watch out for more,” Gibbons said.

The video was shot in and around Domboshava to keep it authentic and proudly Zimbabwean featuring Zimbabwe’s top female comedians Gonyeti and Madam Boss. -@kayskudzai

Winky D

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
London has become one of the most visited locations by Zimbabwean artistes every year.

The way local artistes are increasingly touring the city of London is like UK is only a few kilometres away when in reality, Zimbabwe and England are separated by 5 143,63 miles!

Recently, the likes of Ammara Brown, ExQ, Trevor Dongo, Stunner and Tocky Vibes teamed up for a blockbuster concert in London dubbed the Zim Connect 18 concert.

Now within weeks after Zim Connect 18, another team from Zimbabwe is expected to set UK ablaze at the end of the month.
Zimbabwe’s top superstars namely Oliver Mutukudzi, Zim Dancehall sensation Winky D, Andy Muridzo and Sam Dondo will share the stage in the much hyped annual Impala Festival in London and Coventry this month.

The local artistes will be joined by the world acclaimed duo, Mafikizolo who have managed to stay together for the past decade despite challenges faced in arts.

The annual event is powered by the leading Zimbabwe entertainment promoters, Y2K Promotions in partnership with a car rental firm called Impala Car Rental and Mukuru. Impala festival will kick off this Easter, in London’s Oasis Venue, and finishing up in the plush Sky Dome Arena the following day.

The festival which was launched in 2009, is building up a track record of bringing Southern African music and culture to the UK. The event also aims at creating an opportunity for the world to witness the best talent from the southern part of Africa.

The director of Y2K Promotions Alex Marapara said Y2K is aiming to help upcoming artistes rise to stardom.

“Team Y2K has been working hard to ensure that this year we deliver beyond the expectations of our patrons who are the reason why we do this. We are thankful for the support we have received, not just from the corporate world but also from the fans and the artistes themselves who are excited about the event. The response has been very positive, gauged by the advance online ticket sales as well as actual enquiries.

“As you will realise from our line-up, we have decided to switch up our artiste bill and become more inclusive of musicians raising the African bar. We are excited to have Mafikizolo from South Africa joining the Zimbabwean stars and looking forward to watching them all create magical memories for everyone who will attend the events. Our sponsors Impala Car Rentals, Mukuru.com and Worldremit have also given us a big boost and we are excited about the prospects these relationships will be fostering to ensure convenience for our audiences and growth for our artistes,” said Marapara.

Oliver Mtukudzi

In the previous Impala festivals, the fast growing concert has seen premium acts from the likes of Jah Prayzah, Winky D, Dr Mtukudzi, Selmor Mutukudzi, Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave, as well as Shingai Shoniwa and The Noisettes light up the stage for Zimbabweans in the UK as well as other nationalities with a keen interest in Zimbabwean and African music.

Due to its popularity, local artistes have performed in sold out concerts in the UK Sama festival particularly in 2015 and 2017 concerts. Therefore this year’s venues, Sky Dome and Coventry seems to be natural arenas to cope with such demands.

Marapara added that the vision is to have an annual outdoor day event to include families, students and older citizens and most importantly local British Artists combined with those from Southern Africa. -@NcubeBhekumuzi

Hi Sis Noe
I AM 22 years old and my boyfriend is 30. I love him very much. He makes me happy but we don’t really see each other often because of some circumstances. He says he is not cheating and I believe him at times, but sometimes he gives me reasons to doubt him. I am a very insecure and jealous girlfriend. He recently got a job and I am very happy for him but inside I am not because I feel he is going to meet some other girl out there. — Uncomfortable.

Reply
If you cannot trust this man the relationship will not work. You have to learn to grow up. Trust, respect and communication are ingredients for a happy relationship. If a couple does not trust each other or respect each other and they don’t communicate the relationship is bound to fail. You say this man has given you reasons not to trust him but you didn’t say what these reasons are.

It seems to me that you are immature. You cannot do what so many women try to do and that is to watch their men. And some foolish men try to watch their women, but if a person wants to cheat you could even hire a private detective, it won’t help you. Some women cheat in the kitchen, in the bathroom and in the office to name a few places. If this man loves you, you need not worry. You are afraid that he might see another girl now that he has got a new job. Don’t be silly. Girls would always be around.

He will see them and they will see him. Men will always be around. You will see them and they will see you, but that does not mean that a relationship will develop between this man and the girls or between you and the other guys, so stop behaving like a spoilt child who wants her mother for herself.

Hi Sis Noe
HOW long after having sex do I have to take the morning after pill? — Worried.

Reply
Also known as emergency contraception (EC), the morning after pill contains a high dose of hormones that help to prevent pregnancy soon after sex. Research suggests that while it’s recommended that EC is taken within 72 hours, it’s moderately effective up to 120 hours, dependent on the formula that’s used. Emergency contraception is often referred to as the “morning after pill,” but the sun doesn’t have to come up for it to be taken. In fact, the general consensus is that for most formulations, the sooner it’s taken, the more effective it is. Currently, there are some options on the market, both over-the-counter and by prescription, to protect against unintended pregnancy for those that had contraceptive method fail or had unprotected sex.

Hi Sis Noe
I had genital warts a year ago but I got treated and I no longer have it. I was wondering should I tell my future sexual partner or partners that I once had it. I told my ex about it and we had sex using a condom but our relationship did not last. — Worried.
Reply
You pose an interesting and complicated question. While you are right that warts infection may be treated or clear on its own, it’s hard to know for sure if it’s truly gone. Using a condom during sex can definitely reduce the risk of passing warts to your partner(s), but it’s not guaranteed. For this reason, honesty is always important in any type of sexual relationship.

Honest communication is crucial in relationships, even casual ones, and talking about warts could reduce the stigma surrounding this extremely common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Along the same lines, opening up a discussion about your sexual health history may prompt your partner to do the same. Talking with your partner(s) could also be a learning opportunity — for example, maybe he doesn’t know about the vaccines Gardasil and Cervarix which can protect both men and women against several HPV strains.

Also, having an open conversation might end up being a stress reliever for your partner(s) — nearly all sexually active adults have had at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives.

Hi Sis Noe
I love my husband but I am not sure if he loves me, simply because he does not care about my emotional and sexual needs. The sex we have satisfies him, not me. I have told him this but nothing has changed. — Help.

Reply
Sadly, it sounds as though your husband has become an increasingly selfish and uninterested lover. It is hard to imagine how your sex life has made you feel, given that your husband does not know what you enjoy or what gives you pleasure. Understanding this about your partner is an essential part of any loving relationship — and it should always work both ways. If a couple do not explore what each enjoys, then one or both tend to lose interest in their sexual relationship and are often tempted to look elsewhere.

I know this is tough, but I think you need to talk to your husband and ask him if he still loves you and whether he truly wants this marriage to work or is just staying for the children or financial reasons. If you both want to stay in the marriage, talk about why you feel you are drifting apart and discuss what changes you both wish to see in your relationship — including your sex life. I hope that once you feel closer to one another your sex life will improve. Alternatively, if he has fallen out of love then perhaps he is no longer the man for you.

Hi Sis Noe
I am 19 and he is 26. My problem is that when I have sex with my boyfriend I start bleeding and it goes on for days. Please help me, I am worried. — Worried.

Reply
If you bleed after sex and you are not on your period see a doctor. If you have abnormal bleeding or spotting between periods then that could be a symptom of an STI and needs to be looked at. Although it is scary to think about, ignoring the problem could make things a lot worse. Bleeding after sex with your partner could be caused by a number of reasons ranging from a side effect of the contraception pill if you are on one to a natural virus known as HPV which causes cervical cancer. Any abnormal bleeding must be looked at. See a doctor.

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
AFTER claiming to have made a phone call to Heaven which became the talk of the town, Pastor Sanyangore is back with a new television programme on Just Net TV which is set to inspire non-believers.

Dubbed Heaven Online the programme was influenced by the phone call that the self proclaimed prophet did a few months back which left a lot of people shocked by the fact that one can possess the ability to “make a phone call” to Heaven.

“People should not be shocked by the fact that I made a call to Heaven and this programme seeks to show the world God’s availability to human kind. So in ‘Heaven Online’ we are saying Heaven is available to answer and help us, God does not go offline, he is always available as the Bible says he neither sleeps nor slumbers,” Sanyangore said.

Sanyangore said the programme has given him the opportunity to create belief to non-believers and show them what God can do in people’s lives.

“The programme gives me the opportunity to reach out to the world with the message of Jesus Christ and to demonstrate to people the power of God, in the end more souls are won into the Kingdom of Christ,” he said.

“I believe that this is for a good cause as it will definitely change people’s lives, even the non-believers because they will be seeing what God can do in other people’s lives which creates belief in the non-believers,” he added.

Sanyangore said people should not look forward to more miracles from him but from God as he is only but a vessel of God.

“I urge people to look forward to more miracles from God, not from me, if they look forward to more from me they will be disappointed as it is God’s business to perform miracles, as he has been doing since the beginning of the world and he won’t stop,” Sanyangore said.

The self proclaimed prophet has received a lot of criticism on miracles that he has done but that has not let the man of God stop doing the assignment that God assigned him.

“I have received a lot of criticism from people saying I perform fake miracles and I use juju and stuff like that, but these things don’t move me because the same was done to Jesus Christ, they even got to the level of calling him Beelzebub but Jesus did not stop but continued with his mission,” he said.

Asked if he really talked to God on the phone, he said the phone call to Heaven was not only a miracle but a prophetic message to the world which people should believe.

“It surprises me that people doubt that God can speak through a phone which was made for communication yet they believe that he spoke to Moses through a bush fire. Who is better me or Moses?” he said. -@kayskudzai

Tafi Dube strumming his gutair

Bruce Ndlovu
After having spent over two decades plucking out beautiful country tunes on his guitar, Bulawayo’s beloved visually impaired performer Tafirenyika “Taffi” Dube now wants out, as he has grown tired of constant abuse on the streets of the City of Kings.

Although the life of the street performer has never been easy, things came to a head for Taffi when he lost his beloved guitar to thieves, leading to an outpouring of sympathy from many who wondered how anyone would have the audacity to pull off such a heartless act.

According to Taffi however, this is nothing new as he is always on the receiving end of abuse when the attention of passersby is elsewhere. This latest incident is only the tip of the iceberg, he told Sunday Life last week, but it might be the straw that breaks the proverbial camel’s back.

“I have so far been fortunate to get the goodwill of many people who took it upon themselves to help me out in this difficult time. I just wish I could get a better environment to practice my craft because here I’m everyone’s victim. I’m now tired of the constant abuse. Vagabonds have in the past almost smashed my machine but the worst are schoolchildren who sometimes sneak up on me and press keys on my keyboard. That’s bad because the keyboard is not strong at all,” he said.

Taffi said although he had experienced a lot of abuse during his time on the street, this was the first time that someone had gone as far as taking any of his possessions from him.

“In all my life playing here at Pioneer House, I’ve never lost an instrument to thieves. This was first time and it really came as a great shock. Instead of the hiding place that I was using, I now leave the keyboard in the shop in front of where I play because at least the shop is locked overnight,” he said.

After years of treating Bulawayo pedestrians to renditions of the late Don Williams’ classics, Taffi had developed a close affair with his guitar, an instrument he came to regard as a loved one.

“The pain I felt at losing that guitar was similar to what one feels when they lose a loved one. I feel like I’m in mourning right now because not only did I lose something that goes a long way in making sure that I have something to eat at the end of the day, I also lost an instrument that I had grown to love over the years.

I really need it because I can’t use the keyboard all the time. I would use the keyboard one week and then the guitar the other week because if I stick to just one my shoulder joints would ache,” Taffi said.

A teary Taffi went on to narrate how he had lost his prized guitar on that fateful Saturday evening.

“As I usually do, I left at 6:30 pm for home. This was on Saturday. I usually leave my instruments with the guards that keep guard at Pioneer House and that is what I did on that day. Since there’s a bar upstairs he also goes upstairs to check if everything is in order once in a while. When he came back downstairs, that’s when he found out that the guitar had already been stolen. What’s sickening is that it looks like it was done by someone that had been watching and knew where the guitar would be hidden. Since I don’t come here on Sundays I only found out on Monday morning that I had lost my guitar,” he said.

However, after a public plea from members of the public and a local radio station, local maskandi musician, Zinjaziyamluma came to the rescue and donated a guitar to Taffi.

Alick Macheso

Bruce Ndlovu, Sunday Life Correspondent
Over the last few months, all eyes have been on sungura star Alick Macheso’s camp, as fans and critics alike wait for the latest release from a man who has been at the top of Zimbabwean music for almost two decades.

Macheso’s reign has been long and imperious, outlasting and outmanoeuvring all comers in the last few years. This has been especially so since the death of the man who was thought to be his closest challenger to the sungura throne, Tongai Dhewa Moyo.

As a brand, Macheso is still as compelling as ever. Only those who live with their ears closed to the world can claim that they have never heard of the sungura star or his intoxicating brand of music.

The promise of a Macheso album release still brings excitement to his fans and grabs even the attention of those that do not count themselves among his legion of followers.

Despite the fact that his last few efforts have been seen largely as hit and miss, Macheso’s next album seems to be as anticipated as ever. Macheso as a brand has clearly not been dented by the lean patch that has seen the veteran sungura star fail to produce any notable hits over the last few years.

Nama and other award nominations have dried up as the likes of Jah Prayzah strengthen their hold on the local music scene. With a fresh crop of young stars mushrooming in other genres, Macheso is fighting a lone war for sungura, keeping the genre relevant especially when he threatens to release a new album.

However, over six years since the death of Dhewa, it is perhaps telling that there has not been another musician to rise up and challenge the elder statesman at the high table of a genre that used to be the most popular in the country.

While there is always talented bubbling under the local music scene, sungura’s greatest failing has been the failure to give birth to another star that can rival the appeal or star power of Extra Basso, as Macheso is popularly known.

For any genre to survive there needs to be constant renewal and influx of new talent with new ideas. This is what has been lacking with sungura over the past few years.

The search for the next sungura star has been a long and fruitless one, and with the lack of new voices to push it forward, the genre has struggled to compete with its siblings in the family of Zimbabwean genres.

With a lack of innovation, the genre has stagnated, and many have begun to wonder if a single star can keep the world of sungura alight. The emergence of Zimdancehall has for a long time been cited as one of the reasons of why sungura is now failing to shine, as it instead continues to bask in the glory of its past greatness. While the likes of Peter Moyo and Sulumani Chimbetu are stars in their own right, one could argue that their success is reliant on remaining faithful to formulas that were cooked up by their fathers.

There is little, if any, innovation that they have contributed to the local music scene on their own. Perhaps the lack of competition may have contributed towards Macheso slow march towards mediocrity. The erstwhile sungura’s approach towards releasing new music may be an indication of the fact that he no longer feels the heat from the rest of the field, releasing albums as and when he wants while the likes of Oliver Mtukudzi continue to release albums every other year.

“Macheso has self-actualised and the delays should be more to do with that sense of comfort that comes with the realisation that you have reached your apex. Yes, there is a whole world to conquer, but he remains buoyed by his rich discography,” said local music critic, Takemore Mazuruse.

When the albums eventually come, they are tame efforts that have seen harsh critics observe that Macheso is now a pale shadow of his former self.

His upcoming release, like the album before it, has been the subject of numerous postponements while Macheso indulges fans with renditions of yet to be released songs at his live shows. As exciting as that is for fans, the effect of exposing these songs to the public before they are out is that the albums feel watered down when they are eventually released.

An example of this was songs like Gungwa and Wandirangaridza from Tsoka Dzerwendo. As sungura fans await yet another Macheso release, it remains to be seen if his latest offering will halt the genre’s slide towards death, or only accelerate its march towards a painful demise.

Bruce Ndlovu, Sunday Life Reporter
Few television productions have captured the imagination of Zimbabweans like the Cont Mhlanga-penned Stitsha did when it made its debut on the small screen.

The show, powered by a fresh faced Beater Mangethe who lit up the screen with her spellbinding portrayal of Thuli, became a darling of many viewers during a time that can now be regarded as the golden age for Zimbabwean television.

The tension and struggle between Thuli and her tough as nails brother, Mopho, became a weekly highlight for many viewers who were delighted by the stirring performances by Beater and her on-screen brother.

For viewers, the show was a prime example of local television excellence, showcasing how local artistes could tell compelling Zimbabwean stories if given a platform.

However, for Cont Mhlanga, the show’s mastermind, Stitsha was a product of the turmoil in his own personal and professional life. Fuelled by the personal strife and doubt early in his career, the arts doyen went on to come up with some of the most memorable characters to grace Zimbabwean screens.

Unknown to viewers at the time, the rebellious and free-spirited Thuli was a character modelled after Mhlanga, a man regarded as a godfather of the Bulawayo arts scene.

“My mother was actually NaThuli who was played by Princess Dlamini. I always wanted to tell her story but it was difficult because I’m a man and felt like I wouldn’t do the story justice. So I had to transform and become a woman and that’s how the character of Thuli was created. So Thuli is actually me,” Mhlanga said in an interview with Sunday Life this week.

Cont Mhlanga

According to Mhlanga, the mean spirited Mopho was in part a reflection of his father, a man who had thrown him out of home at least seven times after he expressed his desire to make a living as a writer.

“Stitsha is a painful story because it has a painful back story. NaThuli was my mother and Thuli was me. Her rebellion was meant to represent what I went through trying to be a writer because I was chucked out of home seven times by my father who didn’t believe I could make a living as a writer.

“He would say I sent you to Agro Industries College so that you could make a decent living. Instead I wanted to become a writer so whenever I came home I would find my belongings on the doorstep. Mopho, Thuli’s brother, largely represented my father,” said Mhlanga.

However, despite the Thuli-Mopho conflict being at the centre of the show, Mhlanga felt that the telling of his own struggles needed to play second fiddle to the story of NaThuli. Mhlanga’s mother had a protracted struggle against a white farmer before independence and her indomitable spirit had inspired him to bring her life to the stage and later on to the small screen.

“She had a fight with a white man who lived in the farm across the river from her homestead. One day her goats ate some of his plants and he retaliated by capturing and locking them up. She went to plead with him and he did not want to understand and so she freed the animals herself. He didn’t take kindly to this and started shooting at the goats. My mother lost four goats that day,” Mhlanga said.

The conflict between the two was to come to a dramatic end a few months later.

“A few months later his sheep also strayed into our homestead and my mother also locked them up. He came and freed them himself but as he was doing so she started hacking at them with an axe. The farmer reported to the all-white police station nearby and that was the first time that my mother was arrested,” Mhlanga said.

According to the Amakhosi founder however, bringing his vision to life was not a walk in the park, as the famed Amakhosi cultural centre’s coffers were still bare at that stage.

“Stitsha was an example of what we call theatre of the poor. We wanted to have music as the centre of the project but we could not afford musical instruments. So instead we went for the African drum. In a sense the drum became a whole orchestra.

“Not many people know this but that technique was groundbreaking for Zimbabwean theatre. Now whenever you go to any drama rehearsals you find a drum but I doubt many know where that started and the circumstances behind it,” Mhlanga said.

Solving the music equation was half the battle however, as Mhlanga had to contend with those at the helm at Montrose Studios (ZBC), where the recording of the drama was supposed to be facilitated.

“Montrose Studios was hell for us. Even nowadays when I pass near there I feel like I’m going to hell. You would get there and hear the people that work there saying that we should get our young actors away from them because they smell bad.

“We had a young man called Thula Dlamini who had such a passion for TV. He would even sleep at Montrose just to get the necessary know-how. They hated him more than most because he had dreadlocks,” Mhlanga said.

The conflict between Mhlanga and the powers that were at Montrose was to reach fever pitch some time during the recording of the show, which resulted in Stitsha going off air in the middle of its run on TV. The tug of war inevitable found its way into Mhlanga’s scripts.

“The murder scene at the end of Stitsha was intentional. I used that scene as a metaphor. Mopho stood for not only for my father but also Montrose Studios which I felt stood in the way of creativity and therefore needed to die. So the success of Stitsha was not the success of Cont but the success of young kids from the townships who felt that they should get a platform to tell their story,” Mhlanga said.

Takura Shonhai

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
AFTER disbanding the group Soul Afrika to pursue his solo projects, Takura Shonhai better known in music orbits as Takura has been enjoying his life in the Zim hip-hop circles as he has become one of the best in the country.

The multi-award winning hip-hop star is set to prove more to people and hip-hop lovers that going solo was not a mistake, instead a blessing in disguise as he is set to release his debut album in April.

The forthcoming debut album dubbed Someone Had To Do It (SHTDI) is a true reflection of what the artiste had to endure as a teenager which resulted to his golden story of what he is today.

“Losing my father at the age of 11 was tragic and within all the turmoil my mother was ill, I looked at the woman that I would do anything for and that’s when I knew what I had to do it. I had a constant question in my head; if not you Takura then who? Talent took me to the door but hard work took me to the top,” Takura said.

“So the message behind this album is simple; people should embrace new chances, prove people wrong and don’t give up on dreams,” he added.

The Zino Irema hit maker told Sunday Life that he spent months in perfecting his much anticipated album as he wanted to come up with the best for his fans.

“I feel good about this because it’s my first album and talking about it just excites me. I had to be on lock down for almost two months to get it started and I have managed to come up with an end product which is going to excite people,” he said.

Asked how he has managed to keep relevant and on top of his game despite going solo, he said nothing beats staying true to oneself as it helps keep one in lane.

“What I have learnt as a musician is that you shouldn’t try to imitate someone and that has made me who I am today because I have always stayed in my lane and I don’t get scared to mess up as I just keep doing better and better by the day,” he said.

Madlela Skhobokhobo

Gamuchirai Munemo
THE drive to encourage youths to register to vote through edutainment has resulted in a new hashtag — show me your slip — (voter registration certificate). Entertainment has been greatly used to acquire maximum participation of youths and elimination of voter apathy to this group.

Road shows, street bash awareness and concerts have been the attracting source of increase in youth registering to vote in this year’s elections. Local crowd pulling artistes like Winky D and Madlela Sikhobokhokho, among others have spearheaded voter education and encouraged youth registration. The use of registration certificates for entrance to the celebrity concerts has increased the number of youths accessing voter education. The availability of voter education through edutainment has further resulted in more young people registering to vote. This has furthermore, resulted in Zec deploying the BVR kits for people to register at concert entrances or street bashes hence the access to the fun.

The mop-up exercise saw an upward trend of youths registering to vote. The flashing out of a registration certificate has become a show off proof of a young person who is having fun. This has also led to an extension as even older people are lured to join the young folk that have an understanding of the right to vote and why it is necessary to participate. Therefore, inspiration of this act is not only on registering to vote to secure the future, but, it is registering to vote and enjoy the benefits of being a youth.

Long John

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
AS part of his Village Boy tour, Long John, the comedian, real name Learnmore Mwanyenyeka has teamed up with music legend Oliver Mtukudzi in hosting a charity show to raise funds to help out a local based football club Norton tigers.

The football club specialises in children aged 13 years and below and was founded by the late Vincent Gono and coach Phillip Nzvengende in 2012 in a bid to get kids out of the streets and drugs so as to reintegrate and rehabilitate them under a new life this football team offers.

“As the Village Boy Band we have decided to come together with the team to come up with an idea to host a show and raise money to buy equipment for the football club since they are currently working with one ball against a population of 95 kids which they managed to lure,” Long John said.

Long John told Sunday Life that they have teamed up with Oliver Mtukudzi who has provided them with the venue at Uzunzu Comedy Club in Norton scheduled for 7 April and as the Village boy band they are so grateful about this great gesture from the legend.

Sithembiso Mutukura (centre)

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
A few weeks back, Sithembiso Mutukura was an ordinary girl living her life away from the limelight. But that changed after the 22-year-old was crowned as the first Miss Albinism at the inaugural “Beauty beyond the skin” pageant held in Harare.

The leggy and beautiful model managed to shrug off stiff competition from 12 contestants at the glamorous event and walked away with $85 and a food hamper.

Mutukura shared her sentiment on her recent achievement not only as a person with albinism but as a model trying to bring a change to the society.

“I feel so honoured and excited at the same time, especially considering that we were the very first group of models with albinism in this humble initiative and through this initiative I’m hoping to change the perspective of how people view us,” Mutukura said.

The newly crowned Miss Albinism said the journey has not been easy given the fact that she’s pursuing her degree in Social work at the University of Zimbabwe and being a model but she has managed to do both well.

“I admit that the journey has not been easy because both roles I have to show seriousness and focus. I had to strike a balance, to allocate sufficient time for study and time for modelling and I’m glad that at the end of the day I managed to do both the things I love,” she said. Mutukura said now that she was crowned Miss Albinism she intends to harness the strength of togetherness by engaging the UZ community and back at home.

“I intend to engage the UZ community and the Marondera community which is where I come from to hold albinism awareness campaigns and possibly radio and TV talk shows on this subject. I am certain that we will reach the whole of Zimbabwe with time as you know big things always start small,” she said.

“I also intend to launch a magazine that will focus largely on displaying, illuminating and retelling the real life stories of people with the condition,” she added.

The Zimbabwe Miss Albinism Pageant director, Brenda Mudzimu said she was happy about the outcome of the event as they have been preparing for it for a long time and to her it’s not just an event but a passion.

“I feel so good, I’m just out of words that was my passion to hold the event so that it can be a way of speaking out as people with albinism and the participants really feel honoured for such an opportunity. I’m just there to teach my young sisters how to stand for themselves,” She said.

Mudzimu said she hopes to take Miss Albinism international since albinism is everywhere and people with albinism face the same challenges worldwide and it’s a way of fighting for people living with the condition.

“The successful event has shown we can do what other people can do, we can even go to work like any other human being. For me to have the Miss Albinism in mind, it’s a way of expressing that we can make it even on an international level,” Mudzimu said.

“My life was so bitter starting from the society surrounded me, employment so I’m sure people are learning through this event,” she added.

Miss Albinism is the second contest in Africa to be held after Kenya and the first to be done in Zimbabwe so as to raise awareness to people with albinism and fighting for their rights.

Plaxedes Wenyika

Bruce Ndlovu
For any keen follower of Zimbabwean music at the turn of the century, the names Betty Makaya and Plaxedes Wenyika will always ring a bell when mentioned.

The two songbirds emerged during Zimbabwe’s urban grooves revolution and quickly became two of the leading voices in a movement that was reshaping the country’s music scene.

With gritty wordsmiths like Maskiri and Stunner already dominant, the two divas brought a tender touch to a music scene that could have been overrun with testosterone as the alpha males battled for supremacy in a highly competitive environment.

During the height of the urban grooves frenzy, everyday seemed to herald a new wannabe who thought they could outmuscle the rest of the competition and also sit at the high table.

Times were tough, competition was stiff and the only way to shrug off any pretenders to the throne was through a constant supply of great music.

Those who slept on the job were simply left behind.

It was in such an environment that Makaya and Wenyika emerged. The two were more than just pretty faces, proving perhaps that beauty and talent can sometimes go hand in hand.

As undeniable as their beauty was, their music was also just as compelling. Love ballads are not new to Zimbabwe but few artistes have done them with the class and sincerity of Makaya and Wenyika. In their music, one could hear and feel the bleeding hearts of those that had been let down by love.

The two were the irresistible voices of a generation and they had the hits to prove it. Songs like Plaxedes’ Tisaparadzane and Kurwizi in which Makaya and the late Jamal’s voice fit like a hand in a glove, proved that Zimbabwe had voices that could challenge the sweetest from anywhere on earth.

Fast forward over a decade later and things are just not the same. Needless to say, Makaya and Wenyika are no longer the forces that they once were, although one would be hard pressed to find any current songbirds that they could point towards as worthy successors.

The RnB songbirds are now endangered species on the local music scene that continues to be male dominated.

It is in this dog eat dog environment that Wenyika and Makaya have tried to make their comebacks, trying to turn back the clock and reclaim lost fame.

Second comings are not always what they are cracked up to be and so far things have not gone according to script for the erstwhile urban grooves starlets.

Plaxedes was first out of the blocks, releasing a ten-track album last year titled Metamorphosis.

“I was just at a crazy stage in my life and I wanted to create something funny. In science, metamorphosis is a stage when a larva transforms into a butterfly. I decided to give my album that name because it is showing transformation from a young Plaxedes to a mature one,” the musician said of the album.

However, despite her best efforts, Wenyika seems to have failed to take flight, with the album hardly making a dent on the local music charts.

Makaya’s return has been more tentative, with only one single released since she announced that she intended to make a comeback. Like her fellow urban grooves counterpart, Makaya has also found the going tough.

“It has been long. I cannot even remember when I produced music. I was focusing on my family and raising my four children and I am done making babies now,” Makaya said after the release of her first single.

Her statement showed the dilemma that local female artistes face as they try to balance motherhood and their music career. For Makaya and Wenyika, raising families has for the large part meant their own careers were the first casualty.

While successful male musicians can have families while maintaining thriving careers, this seems like a luxury that female musicians cannot afford.

Now the two songbirds face an uphill task. They have to remind an audience that has largely moved on that they still deserve their attention, while also trying to woo new listeners who are not aware of their past prowess. Whether they can pull off this monumental task is a question that time will answer in due course.