The Sunday Mail
A GROUP of female Zim dancehall chanters has embarked on a programme to stop women and child abuse, domestic violence and gender discrimination through song.
Known as Mic of Hope, the group recently released their debut single titled “Munhukadzi Wakakosha”, which has a theme of empowering women economically in all communities.
Tendazvaita Chitimbe, popularly known as Ninja Lipsy, Mic of Hope’s spokesperson, described the debut track as top quality and a definite hit.
“All the members of our group participated in creating this song and we are proud to say that the single is not just of the best quality possible locally but is also tremendously popular among Zim dancehall followers,” said Ninja Lipsy.
Mic of Hope comprises of Ninja Lipsy, Mabhurugwa (Tapiwa Mutangadura), Lady Bee (Brenda Bechani), Gaza Empress (Pamela Maisiri), Nina Grande (Olga Josphats), Military Pee (Priviledge Matunhike), Sister Minnie (Moreblessing Mafanami) and Juwela (Edelyn Mapuranga).
Ninja Lipsy said the debut single’s message is focused on encouraging women to be active in the economic environment in order for them not to over rely on men.
“Our objective is to encourage women and the girl child to partake in money-making activities so that they won’t be victims of women abuse or even domestic violence due to poverty.
“In most cases females are abused because they do not have their own source of income.
“They are given money with certain conditions that may violate their rights,” explained Ninja Lipsy.
She said “Munhukadzi Wakakosha” was produced by Dollagetaz and Solomon Sunguro.
The song marked the beginning of a new era in Zim dancehall where female chanters are not only entertaining music lovers but also advocating peace and gender balance.
On the other hand it is being used as a platform for upcoming female Zim dancehall chanters such as Military Pee, Sister Minnie and Gaza Empress to gain experience and limelight.
In a separate interview, Mic of Hope manager Heather Mujuru said the female chanters are doing other activities besides music to address issues that affect women.
“This year we joined other organisations in the clean-up campaigns where we cleaned different places while wearing T-Shirts with messages that support women’s empowerment,” said Heather.
“A few weeks ago on Valentine’s Day, we went to Danai children’s home in Greendale to spent time with the ‘girl child’.
“We had time to talk to those children on the different types of abuse and encouraged them to work hard for themselves if they want a brighter future.” She said this year Mic of Hope will initiate live musical shows to convey the message to the targeted audience through Zim dancehall music.
Heather added: “Next week we are shooting the video of ‘Munhukadzi Wakakosha’, which is being sponsored by the Mayor of Kadoma.”
