In a turn of events that has thrilled fans and resolved earlier tensions, Selmor Mtukudzi has confirmed her participation in the highly anticipated inaugural Oliver Mtukudzi International Arts Festival (OMIFA). This announcement follows recent controversy and public outcry regarding her initial omission from the festival’s lineup.
The festival, set to take place on September 21 and 22 at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre, was initially met with disappointment from fans who noticed Selmor’s absence from the lineup. The oversight was attributed to a communication breakdown between Selmor’s team and the festival organizers, Tuku Music. The situation quickly escalated as fans voiced their concerns on social media, stressing the importance of Selmor’s involvement in honoring her late father, the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi.
Arts promoter Josh Hozheri played a pivotal role in mediating the situation. His efforts helped bridge the gap between Selmor’s team and the festival organizers, leading to the resolution of the issue. In a heartfelt announcement on social media, Selmor expressed her commitment to performing at OMIFA, emphasizing her dedication to celebrating her father’s enduring legacy.
The inaugural OMIFA promises to be a grand celebration of Oliver Mtukudzi’s life and work, featuring a stellar lineup of performers. Among the artists scheduled to grace the stage are Jah Prayzah, Feli Nandi, and Mokoomba, adding to the festival’s diverse and vibrant program. The event will also include an array of cultural presentations, including music, theatre, dance, spoken word performances, and a fashion show, all designed to honor the multifaceted contributions of Tuku to Zimbabwean culture.
Adding to the festival’s significance, Sandra Mtukudzi, Oliver’s daughter based in the UK, is also expected to attend, further underscoring the familial and cultural importance of the event. The festival’s timing is particularly poignant as it coincides with what would have been Oliver Mtukudzi’s 72nd birthday, adding an extra layer of emotional resonance to the celebration.
Oliver Mtukudzi, who passed away in 2019, was posthumously honored as a national hero, a testament to his profound impact on Zimbabwe’s music and cultural landscape. The OMIFA is set to be a fitting tribute to his legacy, bringing together fans and artists from across the globe to celebrate his remarkable contributions.
As the festival approaches, excitement is building, and the resolution of Selmor’s participation has added to the event’s anticipation. The OMIFA promises to be a memorable tribute to a legendary figure, showcasing the richness of Zimbabwean artistry and the enduring influence of Oliver Mtukudzi.
In other news – Three Nyanga women arrested after viral video shows assault
Three women from Nyanga have been arrested following their involvement in a violent altercation that was captured in a viral social media video. The footage, which has been widely circulated online, shows the women attacking another woman who was holding a baby. The conflict reportedly stemmed from allegations that the victim was involved in an affair with the husband of one of the suspects.
The incident, which occurred in Nyanga, gained significant attention after the video surfaced on social media platforms, prompting a police investigation. Read More
