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From left to right: Alick Macheso, Suluman Chimbetu, Olivia Charamba,
Tocky Vibes and Jah Prayzah

Tawanda Marwizi/ Nyemudzai Kakore
On April 18 1980 thousands of Zimbabweans gathered at Rufaro Stadium to celebrate Independence and Jamaican artiste Bob Marley performed at the celebrations that saw the Union Jack, symbol of colonial occupation, being taken down.

Thirty-five years down the line musical shows have been done with everyone enjoying the fruits of independence, thanks to the freedom fighters who worked tirelessly to eliminate colonial rule.

With only two days to go for the nation to celebrate 35 years of independence, top musicians are putting their acts together ahead of their performance at the National Sports Stadium on Saturday.

Running under the theme “Zimbabwe @35: Consolidating Peace, Unity, and Economic Sovereignty” the event will see top musicians Alick Macheso, Suluman Chimbetu, Jah Prayzah, Olivia Charamba and Tocky Vibes performing.

The line up itself, with musicians who are stars in their respective genres, is enough to give Zimbabweans the best as they celebrate the liberation of the country and pay homage to heroes who sacrificed their lives.

Zanu-PF Harare Provincial Administrator Alfred Tome said everything had been set for the day and people will be getting entertainment as the nation celebrates independence day. Tome said he was delighted with the preparations so far.

“I am glad that preparations are at an advanced stage with the stage being set already. Our five local artistes will perform during the Independence Day celebrations.

“We believe every Zimbabwean in attendance will be mesmerised by their performances,” he said.

He said all the artistes will carry out rehearsals tomorrow in preparation for the main event the following day.

The artistes promised to give their best as they will be playing songs that suit the event.

Chimbetu said the event was important and they have prepared well for it.

“This event is very important and even our playlist confirms that. We have prepared well for the show,” said Chimbetu.

Tocky Vibes through his manager Elvis Bokosha, said they are geared up for the event.

The “Mhai” hit-maker said he would be playing his new album “Toti Toti” that has songs with a traditional feel as people celebrate the important day.

“Our new album has brought a new feel to our music so we are hopeful that people will love the traditional feel as we join the nation is celebrating the important day,” he said.