ORGANISERS of Mafikizolo’s “Back in Town Concert” slated
for Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) on Friday have revealed that
they will channel part of the show proceeds towards victims of xenophobic
attacks in South Africa.
They said the show will go on as scheduled despite a social
media outcry, calling for a boycott of the event over ongoing xenophobic
attacks. Mafikizolo is expected in the country on Friday morning.
The outcry emanated from the fact that the South African
pair will be coming to perform at a time their compatriots are reportedly
attacking Zimbabweans across the Limpopo.
Show promoter Blessing Jeke said: “We are going ahead with
the show. “Mafikizolo condemns violence, and they are going to openly do so in
a social media video,” he said.
“They will also record a song against xenophobia along with
other local musicians, who are part of the show, because music is universal.
Through i)t, we can reach out to those perpetrators and show them that love
conquers all.
“About 10 percent of our earnings will be donated to the
Zimbabwean embassy in South Africa to help those affected by xenophobic attacks.”
Music and Arts Promoters Association chairperson Josh
Hozheri urged people not to retaliate.
“Firstly, we condemn the violence which is happening in
South Africa against our fellow citizens and other Africans.
“Let us use this event to send the message across the
continent that as much as we are pained by what is going on, we can stand as a
bigger people, leading by example, of what Africa and Ubuntu is all about,” he
said.
“We have our own performing artistes regularly visiting
South Africa. “Alick Macheso was recently in Midrand, and we have Selmor
Mtukudzi and Andy Muridzo going there this month end.
“If we retaliate it will not work to our advantage. All we
can do is use this show to send a message of love, peace and harmony to our
African brothers.”
Hozheri said if locals were to boycott the show, the nation
loses. Herald
0 comments:
Post a Comment