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ZB Partners with Catholic Church to Tackle Drug Abuse

ZB Financial Holdings (ZB), Zimbabwe’s largest financial services group, has partnered with the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe on a new initiative to fight drug abuse and encourage wellness in communities.

 

The collaboration comes as substance abuse, particularly of illicit drugs, has been rising among Zimbabwe’s youth.

Recognising this as a serious social issue, ZB and the Catholic Church will work together to raise awareness, provide education, and support prevention efforts in the country.

“ZB Financial Holdings (ZBFH) is a customer-centric organisation, our purpose is to improve lives through service and today we partner with St Francis Catholic Church in fighting this pandemic,” said the company representative.

“Drug abuse can have a devastating impact on individuals and families and therefore as ZBFH, we are committed to doing our part to raise awareness and provide support for prevention. We believe in the power of compassion and support”.

In a statement, ZBFH said this was a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative aligned with their values to promote public health and facilitate collective efforts to address complex social challenges.

“CSR initiatives focused on health and wellness contribute to the long-term sustainability of both the organisation and the communities in which it operates,” said the statement

“By supporting drug abuse prevention initiatives ZBFH is investing in a healthier and more productive community. This contributes to the long-term sustainability of the community and creates a more stable environment for businesses to operate.”

The “Fighting The War Against Alcohol, Drugs And Illicit Substance Abuse” march will start from Braeside Spar Car Park on Saturday 20 April 2024 to St Martin’s Convent School Grounds

The partnership is seen as an impactful corporate social responsibility program for ZB that aligns with its values. By investing in community health, both partners hope to ultimately create a safer, stronger Zimbabwe for all.

The church’s spokesperson expressed gratitude to ZB Financial Holdings for the support they are giving to the community.

“The community must stand up and work together in fighting drug abuse. We are thankful to ZB Financial Holdings and all other sponsors for collaborating with us today.”

Premier League Trophy Coming to Zimbabwe this Thursday

Football fans in Zimbabwe are in for a special treat this coming Thursday as the iconic English Premier League trophy makes a stop in the capital as part of the Castrol EPL Tour.

 

Lubricant brand Castrol, together with local partner HP Lubes, have announced they will be bringing the coveted trophy to Belgravia Sports Club for a full day of football festivities.

In addition to getting the rare chance to see the trophy that every Premier League club dreams of winning up close, fans at the free event will have the opportunity to meet Zimbabwean football legend Peter Ndlovu.

The former Coventry City and Sheffield United star will be on hand to share stories from his playing days in England and interact with supporters.

The day’s activities will also include football challenges for fans of all ages to test their skills, along with interactive games and prizes courtesy of Castrol.

Fans will also have photo opportunities with the trophy and the legend Peter Ndlovu’s autograph

The event will run from 10am to 2pm at the Belgravia Sports Club.

Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin Announce Historic Zimbabwe Show

Grammy Award-winning collective Maverick City Music has announced that they will be bringing their highly anticipated Kingdom Tour to Harare, Zimbabwe in 2024.

 

Maverick City Music has become one of the biggest names in Christian and gospel music over the past few years.

The Kingdom Tour will see the group travel across Africa, Europe and Asia in 2024.

It has now been revealed that one of the tour stops will be a show in the capital city of Harare, Zimbabwe on August 12, 2024. The concert is scheduled to take place at Glamis Stadium, starting at 6pm and running through to 10pm.

Joining Maverick City Music on the Zimbabwe tour date will be legendary gospel artist Kirk Franklin. With a career spanning over 30 years, Franklin is widely credited with helping to shape modern gospel music.

Maverick City Music has amassed a huge following across Africa in recent times, with their songs of faith and inspiration resonating deeply with listeners on the continent. In Zimbabwe specifically, they command a significant fanbase, especially among young Christian audiences.

The concert at Glamis Stadium promises to be one of the biggest live gospel events of 2024 and we will keep you updated as soon as new information emerges.

Unplugged Coca-Cola Food Fest Lands in Harare This Weekend!

Harare is in for a treat this weekend as Coca-Cola is bringing its signature blend of food, fun, and togetherness to Harare at the highly-anticipated Unplugged Coca-Cola Food Festival.

 

On Saturday, music and food lovers will converge at First Capital Bank Sports Club in Mount Pleasant from 1400hrs for a unique experience and some world-class entertainment.

Coca-Cola Food Festivals have been delighting crowds around the globe by celebrating food, cultures, and togetherness.

Now, Zimbabwe gets its chance to experience the magic as Unplugged Zimbabwe partners with the iconic soft drink brand once again.

Their previous collaborations have treated audiences to memorable outdoor events, and it seems the Coca-Cola Food Festival promises more of the same fun and excitement.

Murumba Pitch

Coca‑Cola Food Fest is a concept that combines the discovery of food and cultures with the togetherness of community and cuisines to create a true recipe for magic.

The festival will have a stellar lineup of local and regional talent.

Headlining the festival is South African duo Murumba Pitch, whose previous performance in Harare was as early as last October.

Homegrown stars will also take to the stage, including celebrated hip-hop artists King98 and Takura.

Dancehall sensation Enzo Ishall and performer Vera, they will be joined by DJs TK Beatz and Naida.

Sterling Finish at Zimbabwe Junior Open as Champions Emerge

The 2024 First Capital Bank Zimbabwe Junior Open concluded today with a thrilling climax, crowning champions in both the Boys and Girls Divisions.

 

By Jeffery Murembechi

Devon Valentine displayed nerves of steel to secure victory in the Boys Division while Charlotte Millard, dominant throughout the competition, held her ground and emerged as the undisputed champion in the Girls Division.

His scorching three-under-par 67 in the final round propelled him to the top of the leaderboard with a championship total of seven-under-par 170.

A fierce battle unfolded behind him, with Johndre Ludick and Jayden Hoskins neck-and-neck for second place, ultimately finishing three strokes adrift of Valentine.

Jules Haessig and Mitch Phigeland shared fifth position, showcasing their consistent play throughout the tournament.

The competition for lower positions was equally intense, with a three-way tie for sixth place between Shijie Li, Keegan Shutt, and Vincent Chidam bazina.

Charlotte Millard / Picture by Grindstone Africa

Millard gave a consistent performance across the tournament solidified her position at the top.

This year’s Zimbabwe Junior Open highlighted the depth of talent present in both the Boys and Girls Divisions. Valentine’s final round surge and Ludick and Hoskins’ persistent pursuit in the Boys Division kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

Millard’s unwavering performance in the Girls Division showcased her exceptional skills and dominance.

The intense competition and impressive displays by young golfers promise a bright future for Zimbabwean golf.

Photo credit Grindstone Africa

“Discipline both Coaches and Match Officials” – Kaindu

Highlanders coach Kelvin Kaindu has called upon the powers that be not only to bring the coaches to disciplinary hearings but also to consider doing the same for match officials.

 

Kaindu made the suggestion after his side drew 1-1 against Ngezi Platinum Stars at the Baobab Stadium on Saturday.

He believed that Ngezi Platinum’s goal scored by Walter Vuwa in the 3rd minute should not have stood.

“These are the issues that are happening day in, day out, in every game that is being played and coaches end up appearing before the disciplinary committee.

“I think those in charge of football should start disciplining both the coaches and the officials,” he told reporters after the match.

Listen to the interview below:

Tonderai Ndiraya Shares His Thoughts on The Heart Stadium

The Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Yadah FC and Simba Bhora became the first official game played at the newly constructed The Heart Stadium on 6 April 2024.

 

It was not the opening Yadah would have hoped for as they fell to a 1-2 defeat at the hands of Simba Bhora.

Simba Head coach, Tonderai Ndiraya believes the stadium has a surface that allows teams to play and express their football.

Rapper Sizipop Drops First Single “25 Lighters” with unique Blend of Sounds and Cultures

Sizwe ‘Sizipop’ Marumure, the versatile rapper and composer has announced the release of his debut single, ’25 Lighters’  which showcases his unique blend of sounds and cultures, drawing inspiration from his experiences in Malmö, Sweden, and his youth in Zimbabwe, the U.K and South Africa.

 

The track, with influences ranging from Bank Bunz to Rizzaw the Nomad king, has been in the vault for some time and features contributions from Chantel Carr and G Side in Huntsville, Alabama, along with Cory (aka Slow Motion Soundz), who engineered the song.

Describing his music as a blend of different cultures and sounds, Sizipop aims to create music that resonates with everyone, from the streets to the geeks.

“I try to make music that resonates with everybody… When I try to create art, it’s not to reflect where I am but more who or what I am,” says Sizipop.

’25 Lighters’ stands out with its unique production, mixing, and mastering, showcasing a blend of styles from Huntsville, Alabama to Sweden, with dreamy vocals from Chantel on the hook. The song serves as a reminder to enjoy the simple things in life and to appreciate the connections that music creates across different locations and cultures.

Fans can expect more exciting projects from Sizipop soon, with plans to drop his first album ‘KARMA’ later this year. The album promises to be a diverse collection that caters to hustlers, dancers, introverts, and manga and anime geeks alike.

When asked about his advice for aspiring hip-hop artists, Sizipop emphasized the importance of having fun with your work and staying patient.

“Fame shouldn’t be a goal… If you play an instrument outside, you never know how your music could help someone having a bad day,” he says.

Listen to ’25 Lighters’ below:

Diana Mupereri: Model, Entrepreneur, Mentor on a Mission to Equip and Upskill

At just 25 years old, Diana Mupereri has already accomplished so much in her modelling career.

 

Originally from Zimbabwe but now based in Canada, Diana has walked on various runways including New York Fashion Week and has been featured in prestigious publications like Vogue Magazine.

However, her ambitions have always extended beyond simply modelling – Diana is committed to using her platform and success to inspire young people across Africa and provide opportunities for others breaking into the industry.

Diana’s most recent milestone came in February of 2024 when she had the honour of closing out the runway show for the fashion brand REVIVED Clothing and Design at New York Fashion Week.

“Being the showstopper…was an indescribable feeling,” Diana reflects. Despite finding success internationally, she has never lost sight of representing her homeland on the global stage.

Diana Mupereri at the New York Fashion Week for the fashion brand REVIVED Clothing and Design

“It proves that with determination, young Africans have what it takes to succeed globally,” Diana states.

In addition to modelling, Diana Mupereri is a talented entrepreneur. In 2022 she became the founding partner of 6ixElement Entertainment Group, a model and talent agency based in Toronto, Canada.

That same year, Diana graduated from York University with a degree in Humanities, showing her dedication to self-improvement and education.

Through her agency 6ixElement Entertainment Group, Diana has produced two successful fashion shows including her first fully independent show ‘6ixFashion Seasons’ which was a resounding success.

She has also collaborated with artists like Zimbabwean singer Poptain and his Yardbwoy record label through her magazine called Justbe as well as Andrian Tate, who was the magazine’s brand ambassador.

Her magazine has profiled various industry elites including International makeup artist and entrepreneur Jacque Mgido.

Diana Mupereri – emboding the essence of timeless glamour in her alluring black ensemble

Diana’s drive to inspire others is what motivated her to recently launch free online modelling classes and mentorship.

“I want to share my experiences to help others,” she says. Through live lessons and pre-recorded videos, Diana aims to provide accessibility to aspiring models anywhere.

She will offer portfolio reviews and one-on-one coaching tailored to individual goals.

In the past, Diana has sponsored projects that showcase African talent. She supported the outfits, makeup and photography for Nicole Madimutsa who went on to win a pageant in Nigeria.

Diana says “I’m looking to do more projects that open doors for African creatives.”

It is clear that through her remarkable success and giving spirit, Diana Mupereri is leaving an immense impact.

With her experience at top industry events and passion for empowering others, she is sure to continue inspiring many more as both a role model and mentor. Under Diana’s guidance, the next generation of African talent will no doubt achieve their dreams.

Almasi Collaborative Arts to Host a Staged Reading of ‘How to Defend Yourself’

Almasi Collaborative returns to the performance space with yet another catchy staged reading of the play titled ‘How to defend yourself’ which was written by Liliana Padilla and is being directed by Chelsy G Maumbe, a Zimbabwean dramatic arts practitioner.

 

This latest offering is going to be at Reps Theatre on Saturday the 6th of April 2024 at 14:30 and entrance will be free to all.

 ‘How to Defend Yourself’ follows the story of a sorority sister who is raped, after this unfortunate twist, College students gather for a self-defence workshop. They learn to use their bodies as weapons.

They learn to fend off attackers and in the process gather strength to reclaim the mantle of ‘not being the victim’. The process of learning self-defence becomes a vent through which they release their innermost emotions of rage, anxiety, confusion and trauma.

The upcoming staged reading holds a mirror for society to reflect upon our surrounding environments and how they can be made safe in the face of sexual assault.

According to Almasi Collaborative Arts’ Programs Coordinator, Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, “How to Defend Yourself is a powerful and poignant exploration of self-defense, consent and resilience.

It shines a light on the complexities of gender, sexuality and identity. We are pleased to present this Yale Prize for award-winning play to the Zimbabwean public. We look forward to connecting with the audiences in their experience of this explosive dramatic piece.”

A vibrant cast made up of Munashe Goromonzi, Rumbidzai Musiwa, Maya Tekie, Maxine Rigava, Panashe Gundanhamu, Tanatswa Kumirai, Nigel Chindungwe and Charlene Furusa shall be taking the audience on this dramatic journey.

Versatile creative, Chelsy G Maumbe who takes the helm of director in this production has been a part of Almasi’s development programs.

According to Zaza Muchemwa Almasi Associate Director, “This staged reading is a special one for us. It is a time where we realize another step in the development of an artist we have worked with for more than 5 years.

Ms Maumbe has taken part in many Almasi programs in different capacities from actor, and assistant stage manager to assistant director.

This time she steps into the role of director in a staged reading. We could not think of a more self-possessed and determined person to take on this incredible opportunity.”

“I am very excited that my directorial of an Almasi staged reading is ‘How to Defend Yourself by Liliana Padilla because it is a play that explores themes I am really passionate about. The issue of consent and gender disparity is glossed over in our society.

This play in particular addresses these issues in a seamless yet digestible manner,” said Chelsy G Maumbe, the director of the staged reading.

The Staged Reading of How to Defend Yourself is part of Almasi’s staged reading series which is aimed at improving dramatic literacy in Zimbabwe. The readings are FREE and open to the public to encourage audience development.