Zimpapers Logo

Arts Reporter

Zimbabwe’s most touring musical ensemble, Mokoomba, will take part in the inaugural Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of Arts (OMIFA) scheduled for September 21 and 22 at Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton.
The group, which touring the United States of America, is expected back home on September 11.

After taking a breather, the Tonga outfit will honour Tuku for paving the way for other creatives as one of the trendsetters.

“The boys are coming back in September before they proceed to Europe for some shows in the UK, Norway and Poland,” said group spokesperson Marcus Gora, who is also part of the OMIFA organising team.

“They will also perform at OMIFA (Tuku’s arts) along with another group to be announced next week.”

Gora said morale was high in the camp.

“The boys are fine in the US. Touring has become part of their life. We expect them back for OMIFA,” he said.

“We are ready for the event despite our busy schedules.”

Meanwhile, Tuku would have turned 72 years old on September 22 at the festival. He died on January 23 2019 aged 66 after losing his battle against diabetes.

Tuku was declared a national hero and buried at his rural home in Madziva, Mashonaland Central.

And, five years after his death, Tuku’s family has decided to organise a festival in memory of the late crooner.

The festival aims to honour the life and work of the legendary musician and national hero. A commemorative dinner and a series of workshops will market the event.

To fulfil Tuku’s wish, event organisers said there will be performances in music, dance, art and craft, fashion, theatre and film.