KIRENI BACKS SADC ON SANCTIONS
VETERAN soloist Kireni Zulu reckons yesteryear artistes need to step up and speak against sanctions hurting Zimbabwe.
Kireni, who combines music with comedy, said he was backing SADC countries on their declaration of October 25 as the day to speak against the illegal sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States and its allies.
He noted that best way they can disseminate the information as artistes was through festivities such as musical shows among other events in compliance with the Covid-19 restrictions.
“We are backing SADC countries that are preaching the solidarity message against sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe because they are hurting the poor.
I got an insight on sanctions the last time we performed in Bulawayo and I am always ready to come and perform at this year’s edition.“We were told that sanctions were hurting the poor as well as affecting engagement with the international community.
“I think we need more of yesteryear artistes like Patrick Mkwamba, Mitchell
Jambo, Jonah Moyo among other veteran musicians who have seen it all to come forward and participate,” he said.
Kireni said yesteryear artistes, who witnessed the liberation struggle, understand better how it hurts when restrictions are in effect.
“I have nothing against young artistes or the crop of current artistes but yesteryear musicians need not to be forgotten when talking about these issues because the majority of them are grounded because of sanctions,” he said.
The Marabi king said event organisers need to centralise such festivities meant to speak against sanctions.
“I have always participated at such events with national interest, especially last year’s Anti-Sanctions gala held in Bulawayo.
“Since it has become a special event on the national calendar, would prefer a similar held send the message clear to those who imposed the sanctions,” he said.
He however, said that there is need to include the young artistes in their campaign. “Of course I had mentioned that yesteryear artistes need to step up and take a leading role in this campaign but let’s not forget the young entertainers we have.
“There are also youngsters who appeal to a huge audience and it would be a plus if they come on board as well.
“By now, we should have started dropping videos promoting the day as well as hyping the Ant-Sanctions gala so that we become a national anthem. I think we would have stepped efforts to educate people on the day and show send the clear message that it is not criminal to demand justice and fairness,” he said.
Kireni, who has already counted himself available for the anti-sanctions festivities, added that he enjoys taking part at national events. “I have always had a good feeling when taking part at national events because I know I will be doing it for my people. I always deliver and make sure that I have done my best,” he said. Meanwhile, Kireni said he was busy in the studio working on his 10th album titled Vhura Armory (open young mind) due for release ahead of the festive season.
“I have an album which is ready for release but I am still weighing up options on how to launch it. Of course we are now doing most of the things online but we haven’t lost hope that one day we will be given the green-light to hold mass gatherings.
“It’s every artiste’s wish to perform before a bumper crown because we have been conditioned to do that,” he said.
Kireni is one of the multi-tasking artistes who have managed to survive on Covid-19 induced lockdown.
He has been paying rentals for his band members but now concedes that the going has gone tough.
Kireni believes in synergies, hard work and collaborations that have seen him appealing across generations. He is also writer with published Shona novels.
I situation where festivities are in various provinces.
“We want to