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Music Sensation, Pa.II takes Canada by storm with a genre-bending project and new single

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Music Sensation, Pa.II takes Canada by storm with a genre-bending project and new single

Pa.II is making waves in the Canadian music scene with his authentic blend of Afrobeats, R&B, dancehall and pop elements.

 

With a rich cultural heritage and musical influences that span continents, Pa.II’s sound is a refreshing addition to the Canadian music landscape and aims to prove that with his project, “ILLAH: Eviction Notice” scheduled to be released later this year.

The second single, Long Time was written and recorded following the emotional journey Pa.II made home to see his family and friends after more than a decade away from his birthplace in Nigeria.

That trip and the events that followed including leaving his long-term studio after a decade and betrayals from the most unexpected places birthed this project – a delectable combination of melodies and emotional lyrics painting a picture of a man caught between worlds.

Long Time reflects on childhood friendships, lost love, family ties and the memories that forged these bonds.

“When Long Time came to me, I just saw flashes of different scenes from my time in Nigeria as a child- eating mangoes with my late uncle while sitting in the tree, running out of the house at 4pm to catch the boys on the soccer field to the dismay of my parents. Those were great times…” Pa.II recounts.

Long Time sets the theme of the project that will tackle themes of loss and lack while forging ahead.

It tells a tale of a man who through immigration has lost friends and touch with his old self yet has found a new outlook for the future.

The low-mid tempo song has a reggae styled baseline blending with the pidgin English lyrics synonymous with the Afrobeats genre.

The simple yet catchy hook that leads the way for a complex emotional tone/ melancholic verse that contracts the optimism of the chorus.

This contrast creates a rich and nuanced emotional landscape, where the song’s themes and melodies balance between reflective, contemplative moments and uplifting, celebratory moments.

This blend of emotions make for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant song that is sure to bring a few people to mind for any listener.

“Long Time reflects on some of my best childhood memories. Leaving Nigeria to Canada as a child and coming back as a man meant that a lot changed from the landscape to the people.

“Some faces are now only memories, some are just altogether different people with different perspectives. This song serves as a poignant reminder to cherish relationships while we can, acknowledging life’s fleeting nature and the uncertainty of tomorrow”, Pa.II adds.

Zimbabwe Cricket Accuses David Coltart of ‘Smear Campaign’ and Racial Bias

Michael Shoko
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Zimbabwe Cricket Accuses David Coltart of ‘Smear Campaign’ and Racial Bias

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has issued a strongly worded statement accusing Bulawayo mayor and former sports minister David Coltart of leading what it describes as a “relentless smear campaign” against the organisation and its black administrators.

 

In remarks released on Tuesday, ZC alleged that Coltart’s repeated criticism of the board and its selection policies is “fuelled by personal bitterness and racial prejudice” and lacks “any credible evidence.”

The governing body claims the former minister’s “frequent social media tirades” promote a divisive narrative that undermines the progress it says it has made in transforming the sport since independence.

“Far from offering constructive criticism, his attacks are aimed solely at undermining the integrity of selectors and administrators who operate under strict, merit-based and transparent processes,” ZC said.

“There is absolutely no place for racial prejudice in our game.”

ZC’s statement also placed the dispute in the context of cricket’s complex history in Zimbabwe, noting that the sport was introduced in 1890 during the colonial era and remained the preserve of the white minority until 1995, when the first black player represented the national team.

Since then, the board says it has worked to make teams at national, provincial and club level more reflective of the country’s demographics.

The organisation further accused Coltart of politicising cricket during his time as sports minister, and of playing a role in the black armband protest by players Andy Flower and Henry Olonga during the 2003 World Cup.

ZC said this contributed to England’s boycott of a scheduled fixture in Harare and the 23-year freeze in bilateral cricket relations between the two nations, a standoff that only ended in May this year.

Coltart, a former officer in the Rhodesian police, has previously acknowledged and expressed regret for serving under an unjust system during the country’s pre-independence era.

However, ZC claims his current commentary on team selection shows “a lack of true repentance” and reflects “selective outrage” that focuses only on the omission of white players.

The board called on the cricket community “to see through Coltart’s charade” and support its efforts to build a future for the sport “founded on unity, fairness and sporting excellence.”

Sumisola, Ebuka Songs, Lead Unforgettable Relentless Worship Night

Trevor Makonyonga
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Sumisola, Ebuka Songs, Lead Unforgettable Relentless Worship Night

Saturday, August 9, was a great day for United Family International Church (UFIC) members at Relentless Worship Experience (RWE) 2025 as they enjoyed gospel music from Nigerian artists Sumisola Agbebi and Ebuka Songs.

 

The day-event commenced at 12 midday with the UFIC choir warming the stage.

It can be said that before Sumisola and Ebuka hit the stage, all performers were from UFIC.

Such acts as Tapiwa Masara and Larry Gunda had good stage performances that wowed the 15000 in attendence.

Pastor Larry Gunda’s Kana Mwari Vakurangarira sent the crowd into a frenzy and pretty much helped to set the mood before the main acts came.

Sumisola’s set was, however, unique. She brought with her a fire of worship and a complex vocal perfomance such as never been heard.

She sang renditions of How great is our God, Your Presence, Holy Forever, Yeshua and her song Bola among a plethora other new songs. She was being backed by a section of the UFIC worship leaders who helped her to sing a part of Bola in Shona.

Then Ebuka Songs took to the stage. He first preached for about 30 minutes and led worship. Then he switched up the energy as he joined many songs. For someone who had landed in Harare for the show in the afternoon, his energy was amazing.

Ebuka sang renditions of hits such as Obinigwe, You are more than a song, Yahweh Sabaoth, No turning back and Favour. When he sang his song, I am a Soldier, the myriads of people in attendance burst into a choir. His set was very decent.

Pastor Michael Mahendere closed the show with a splendid showcase. As a local hero, his performance capped the night experience.

The show ended at about 2045.

Award winning musician, Tammy Moyo, was part of the MCs of the event together with Evangelist Ado Nyakudya and Siphosami. They stirred the ship quite well.

Onida and Chiota Crowned National Pool Champions as Sport’s Popularity Surges in Zimbabwe

Michael Shoko
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Onida and Chiota Crowned National Pool Champions as Sport’s Popularity Surges in Zimbabwe

Timothy Onida and Alice Chiota, both from Harare, emerged as the 2025 Carling Black Label Pool national champions after convincing victories in the men’s and women’s finals held on Saturday at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Grounds in Bulawayo.

 

Onida and Chiota each triumphed by the same dominant scoreline in their respective categories, 5–1,  to secure the national titles, walking away with US$2,500 in prize money and top-of-the-range pool tables.

Runners-up in both categories received US$1,500, while third- and fourth-placed players collected US$1,000 and US$500, respectively.

For 40-year-old Chiota, the win was a long-awaited breakthrough after finishing as runner-up in the women’s category in 2023.

Alice Chiota

Onida, meanwhile, struck a confident tone after his victory.

“To be honest, I wanted to win and I had already told myself before leaving home that I was going to win,” he said.

The finals drew 148 competitors, 74 men and 74 women and ran from mid-morning into the evening, underscoring the sport’s growing appeal across the country.

Once largely associated with bar culture, pool has evolved into a respected competitive sport in Zimbabwe, now enjoyed at community centres, clubs and recreational facilities nationwide.

Much of this growth has been fuelled by sustained corporate backing from Delta Beverages through its Carling Black Label brand, whose sponsorship has elevated the game’s profile, improved prize offerings, and broadened participation.

The national championships now stand as one of Zimbabwe’s most competitive and well-attended sporting events, drawing players and fans from all corners of the country.

Timothy Onida speaking to the media after his victory

@zimbuzz

Timothy Onida of Epworth is the Carling Black Label National Pool Champion

♬ original sound – Zimbuzz

Dynamos Survive Another Penalty Shootout to Reach Chibuku Super Cup Quarter-Finals

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Dynamos Survive Another Penalty Shootout to Reach Chibuku Super Cup Quarter-Finals

Dynamos’ Chibuku Super Cup title defence remains alive after the Harare giants edged Simba Bhora 4-3 on penalties in Shamva on Saturday, booking their place in the quarter-finals.

 

It was a familiar route to progression for Dynamos, who also needed a shootout to overcome Yadah FC in the preliminary round earlier in the week.

This time, they played to a 1-1 draw in regulation before holding their nerve from the spot.

MWOS, Manica Diamonds and Bikita Minerals also secured their places in the last eight.

MWOS delivered one of the weekend’s standout performances, beating CAPS United 2-0 at Ngoni Stadium thanks to goals from Nigel Mutinha and Arthur Banda.

At Mandava Stadium, FC Platinum and Manica Diamonds played out a goalless 90 minutes, with Manica prevailing 5-3 in the ensuing penalty shootout.

The competition’s knockout format has already produced high drama, with three of the latest four fixtures decided by spot kicks — a trend that could continue as the quarter-finals take shape.

Full-time Results:

MWOS 2-0 CAPS United
Simba Bhora 1-1 Dynamos (3-4 on Penalties)
TelOne 1-1 Bikita Minerals (4-5 on Penalties)
FC Platinum 0-0 Manica Diamonds (3-5 on Penalties)

Shoko Festival Unveils Star-Studded Mash Up Nights Line-up for 2025 Edition

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Shoko Festival Unveils Star-Studded Mash Up Nights Line-up for 2025 Edition

Zimbabwe’s longest-running festival of urban culture, Shoko Festival, is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated Mash Up Nights for its landmark 15th Edition, set to take place at Harare Gardens on Friday, September 26th, 2025.

 

This year’s Mash Up Nights promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Zimbabwe’s vibrant urban culture and hip-hop legacy, with legendary producer Take Fizzo headlining the event.

Renowned for his ground breaking influence in shaping Zimbabwe’s modern music industry, Take Fizzo is set to take festival-goers down memory lane with an electrifying showcase of his greatest hits and iconic productions.

From his early work redefining urban soundscapes to his extensive catalogue of genre-defining tracks, Take Fizzo embodies the transformation of Zimbabwe’s music scene into a contemporary powerhouse.

Festival goers are in for a nostalgic trip down memory lane curated by Take Fizzo, who will be joined by the urban grooves legends Mafriq and Trinity.

Mafriq and Trinity are pioneering urban grooves, major players who created some of the country’s most iconic musical moments and established the foundational sound that defines Zimbabwean urban music today.

As the festival celebrates its 15th anniversary, Shoko Festival Coordinator, Vera Chisvo says, “Take Fizzo represents an era that laid the foundations for Zimbabwe’s modern music industry.

His performance is the perfect way to mark 15 years of Shoko’s dedication to promoting urban culture and hip-hop. This is a true celebration of the journey we have all taken together.”

Mashoko Tapes returns for its highly anticipated second edition, serving as the creative heartbeat of Shoko Festival 2025. This groundbreaking music residency program brings together the festival’s Mash Up Nights performers in a collaborative environment to produce an original album, fostering artistic growth and cross-genre experimentation.

Following the triumphant inaugural edition that featured Ray Kaz, Bhekiwe, Shebeen Boys (Dingo and Dough Major), Lala Martins and rising Afro Fusion songbird, Rutendo Jackie.

This year’s residency promises to deliver another collection of innovative tracks that capture the essence of Zimbabwe’s rapidly evolving urban music landscape.

The 2025 Mashoko Tapes lineup showcases an exceptional blend of established and emerging talent, featuring Segulm, the Guru Afro visionary whose “First of Season” album represents bold artistic innovation;

Rising hip-hop powerhouse Briza from Bulawayo, celebrated for his commanding stage presence and authentic storytelling; 2024 Zim Hip-Hop Awards nominee and Music Connects alumnus, multi-disciplinary artist Paintafresco;

And Harare rapper Yadis, who is emerging as one of the most promising female hip-hop voices after releasing her acclaimed debut mixtape “Ndakusasa Mixtape” and Enhle, who is a neo-soul RnB songstress.

This diverse collective will spend time in residence together, creating collaborative magic that bridges different sounds, styles, and stories, reinforcing Mashoko Tapes’ role as a catalyst for artistic growth and a testament to the power of collaboration in accelerating Zimbabwe’s dynamic music scene.

This year’s Mash Up Nights will highlight Shoko’s continued commitment to creative collaboration and cultural unity, drawing inspiration from the theme #TheLegacyXV as the festival celebrates 15 years of cutting-edge urban art, music, and youth culture.

Tickets are now available for purchase online at www.flippintickets.co.zw and at the Moto Republik box office situated at 3 Allan Wilson Avenue, Harare.

Early bird pricing for Mash Up Nights early bird tickets are priced at $10 (versus $15 at the gate), while Comedy Night is set at $15 (compared to $20 at the door).

Festival goers looking for maximum value can secure a combo ticket covering both events for just $20 in advance.

Shoko Festival remains Zimbabwe’s longest-running festival of urban culture, celebrating free expression, cutting-edge art, and alternative youth culture. It is a project of Magamba Network, Africa’s trailblazing creative and digital media organisation.

Taylor’s return overshadowed as Zimbabwe crumble

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Taylor’s return overshadowed as Zimbabwe crumble

Despite an impressive innings of 44 from Brendan Taylor, Zimbabwe endured a difficult first day in the second Test against New Zealand at Queens Sports Club on Thursday.

 

After winning the toss and opting to bat, the home side were bundled out for just 125, a total quickly overtaken by the visiting openers, who reached stumps at 174 for one without much trouble.

The match marked Taylor’s return to the Zimbabwean side after serving an ICC ban.

He was slotted in as an opener in place of Ben Curran.

Now 39, Taylor is playing his first Test in four years – 21 years after making his debut.

His experience was clearly needed as Zimbabwe endured a rocky start.

Brian Bennett fell without scoring, caught low at second slip by Will Young off Matt Henry in the bowler’s second over – with just a no-ball on the scoreboard at the time.

It could have been worse for Zimbabwe, as Young spilled a catch off the very next delivery, giving Nick Welch a life.

However, Welch could not capitalise, falling for 11 as he was trapped lbw while attempting a drive off Henry.

Zimbabwe slumped to 30 for two.

Sean Williams got off to a brisk start but managed only 11 off 13 balls before being undone by a good delivery from debutant Zakary Foulkes, with Young holding on to another sharp chance in the slips – 43 for three.

Taylor, looking composed on 18, was joined by Craig Ervine, who struggled for runs against the moving ball.

He had made just seven when, in the final over before lunch, he misjudged a drive outside off stump from Foulkes and gifted Young his third catch of the session.

Zimbabwe went into lunch at 67 for four, with Taylor steady on 33 not out, underlining his value despite years in the wilderness.

After the break, Taylor resumed confidently and moved to 44 before a lapse in concentration saw him drive a simple catch to extra cover off Henry.

Zimbabwe were now five down for 83.

Things deteriorated rapidly.

Without a run added, Sikandar Raza (5) glanced a ball from Foulkes straight to leg slip.

Two balls later, Trevor Gwandu was trapped lbw attempting a back-foot defensive stroke.

At 94, Vincent Masekesa (1) was bowled by Henry, and once the total reached 100, Blessing Muzarabani (3) was the ninth to fall – bowled by Henry, who claimed his fifth wicket.

However, the final pair, Tafadzwa Tsiga and Tanaka Chivanga, offered some resistance, adding 25 runs in 43 minutes before Chivanga was caught at mid-off playing a loose shot off Matthew Fisher.

Chivanga made a gritty four off 22 balls, while Tsiga once again showed his temperament and ability, remaining unbeaten on 33 off 54 deliveries.

Zimbabwe’s total of 125 was far below par.

Henry returned excellent figures of five for 40 from 15 overs, while Foulkes ended with four for 38.

In response, New Zealand made a fluent start, with Devon Conway and Young plundering 23 runs off the first three overs.

They batted with assurance and passed Zimbabwe’s total without losing a wicket.

Gwandu eventually provided Zimbabwe with a breakthrough late in the day, as Young chopped on trying to pull.

He had scored a commanding 74 in an opening stand worth 162.

At stumps, Conway was unbeaten on 79, Jacob Duffy was on eight, and New Zealand were in control at 174 for one.

Zimbabwe – 125 all out in 48.5 overs (Brendan Taylor 44, Tafadzwa Tsiga 33*, Sean Williams 11; Matt Henry 5/40, Zakary Foulkes 4/38, Matthew Fisher 1/16)

 New Zealand – 174-1 in 39 overs (Devon Conway 79*, Will Young 74, Jacob Duffy 8*; Trevor Gwandu 1/31)

 Day 1 – Stumps: New Zealand lead by 49 runs

Top Players to Face Off in Carling Black Label National Pool Championship Finals

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Top Players to Face Off in Carling Black Label National Pool Championship Finals

After months of regional qualifiers across the country, the Carling Black Label National Pool Championship will culminate in a highly anticipated final on Saturday, August 9, at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Grounds in Bulawayo.

 

The championship, which began on May 31 with 31 regional tournaments, has drawn competitors from all corners of Zimbabwe.

A total of 148 players, 74 men and 74 women, have earned their place in the finals, where they will compete for top honours and cash prizes in their respective divisions.

Winners in both categories will walk away with a grand prize of $2,500 and a pool table.

The second- and third-place finishers will receive $1,500 and $1,000, respectively, while fourth place will take home $500.

Organisers describe the event as more than a tournament a celebration of discipline, skill, and a shared love for the game of pool.

With free entry to the public, the championship is expected to draw a large crowd of spectators.

The event will also feature live entertainment from Bulawayo-based DJs Tino, Mateu, and Papito, while The Travellers Band and DJ Nospa are scheduled to perform during the closing ceremony.

The championship is sponsored by Delta Corporation’s Carling Black Label brand. Delta, a major player in Zimbabwe’s beverage industry, operates under licenses from The Coca-Cola Company and also produces local favourites such as Castle, Chibuku, and Zambezi Lager.

Nigerian Gospel Singer Sunmisola Arrives in Zimbabwe Ahead of Relentless Worship 2025

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Nigerian Gospel Singer Sunmisola Arrives in Zimbabwe Ahead of Relentless Worship 2025

Nigerian gospel artist Sunmisola made her arrival at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Wednesday ahead of Relentless Worship 2025, a highly anticipated Christian music event set for this weekend.

 

The singer, known for her soaring vocals and deeply spiritual performances, was welcomed by event organisers, local media, and fellow gospel musician Minister Michael Mahendere, who is also scheduled to perform.

Joining the lineup later this week is fellow Nigerian worship leader Ebuka Songs, whose arrival is expected before the event.

Relentless Worship 2025 will take place on Saturday, August 9, at the UFIC Basilica in Chitungwiza.

The concert, which will run from midday to 7 p.m., brings together top gospel artists from Nigeria and Zimbabwe in a collaborative effort to deliver what organisers describe as “a sacred encounter” through music.

Prominent Zimbabwean gospel performers slated to share the stage include Psalmist Hubert C, Worshipper Larry Gunda, Tatenda Masara, Carol Nyakuba, and the UFIC Choir.

In a statement, Pastor Prime Kufa, a spokesperson for the Relentless Worship initiative, said the event represents more than a musical performance.

“The arrival of Sunmisola, Ebuka Songs and their teams marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering unity through gospel music,” he said.

“Their union with our esteemed local artists embodies the transcendent nature of worship that knows no borders.”

Organisers expect a large turnout as gospel fans prepare for what has been billed as one of the most spiritually charged concerts of the year.

POSB Rolls Out Solar and Starlink Loans for Schools

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POSB Rolls Out Solar and Starlink Loans for Schools

The People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) has unveiled a Solar and Starlink Loan, a transformative financing solution designed to help schools and staff in the education sector across Zimbabwe to access reliable solar energy and high-speed internet connectivity via Starlink.

This people-centric initiative is a direct response to the growing need for digital inclusion in education.

Research shows that over 60% of rural schools in Zimbabwe lack reliable electricity, and more than 70% have no internet access, severely limiting their ability to implement e-learning and digital literacy programs.

POSB’s new loan product aims to close this gap and empower schools to fully participate in the digital economy.

POSB has partnered with Transerv, Global Solar, and TelOne to provide affordable financing for solar and Starlink kits.

TelOne is responsible for the Starlink hardware and installation while Transerv & Global Solar provide high-quality solar kits and deployment.

The available solar kits range from 1kVA  to 30kVA. 

“This is more than just a loan. It’s a game changer,” said Garainashe Changunda, POSB’s CEO.

“We are enabling schools, especially in underserved rural communities, to leap into the future with sustainable energy and world-class internet access.

It’s part of our broader commitment to development, financial inclusion and contribution towards vision 2030 which aims to achieve an upper middle-class society.

“We recognise that collateral security is often the biggest barrier to accessing financing.

“That’s why we’re offering this solar and Starlink kit loan facility with a maximum loanable amount of USD10,000, without requiring collateral, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind,” Changunda added.

The Solar and Starlink loan facility is available to all registered schools that maintain an active deposit account with POSB including but not limited to mission schools, public and private schools, primary and secondary school, colleges and tertiary institutions.

Staff members in the education sector including teachers, lecturers and staff members affiliated to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Schools Education and the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary education also qualify.

Once all required documents have been submitted, loan approvals are processed within 48 hours, and installations are completed within seven days, ensuring minimal disruption to learning.

Schools and individuals can finance both solar systems and Starlink equipment under a single loan package, with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months, aligned to school income cycles.

No collateral is required for loans under USD10,000, making the product accessible even to the most resource-constrained schools.

To apply, schools must provide proof of registration, a six-month POSB bank statement, identification and proof of residence for School Development Committee (SDC) members and the school head, a supplier quotation, SDC meeting minutes and constitution, and a signed borrowing mandate.

In addition to this offering, POSB also provides a General School Asset Financing Loan to fund other essential infrastructure and equipment needs.

This initiative underscores POSB’s role as a development-focused, people-first institution committed to building a more inclusive and empowered Zimbabwe.

For more information or to apply, schools and staff are encouraged to visit their nearest POSB branch or call the Bank’s virtual service centre on toll-free number 223.

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