Story by Josephine Mugiyo
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa says Government is prioritising the growth of the creative industry and tourism as key drivers of socio-economic transformation.
The Head of State made the remarks while hosting the Light Machine Gun Choir and Chitungwiza Harmony Singers at State House in Harare on Thursday.
Formed in 1978 at the JZ Moyo camp, the LMG Choir rose to prominence during the liberation struggle, producing songs such as Emoyeni Kubuhlungu and Sijabule Namhlanje, which mobilised and inspired communities.
In recognition of its contribution, the choir was presented with a 15-seater minibus, while individual members received tokens of appreciation.
The Chitungwiza Harmony Singers, founded in 1993, have represented Zimbabwe on the international stage and won several accolades. The group received a 30-seater bus, with members also receiving tokens.
President Mnangagwa said the arts sector is a critical component of the country’s economic transformation agenda.
“Culture is indeed not merely an expression of identity but a lucrative industry. My Government thus recognises Creative and Cultural Industries as a vital pillar within our economic transformation agenda,” he said.
He described the LMG Choir as a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe’s liberation history.
“The revolutionary L.M.G Choir stands as a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe’s liberation history, deeply rooted in the lived experiences of our armed struggle for Independence. Liberation war cadres and communities alike used songs as a vital tool of communication, unity, mobilisation and ideological grounding… The Choir, thus, meaningfully contributed to the psychological and cultural dimensions of the struggle, reinforcing the identity and purpose of those who fought for national sovereignty,” he said.
Commending the Chitungwiza Harmony Singers for their international success, President Mnangagwa said the creative sector is being positioned as a key economic driver under national development frameworks.
“I extend my congratulations to each and every member of the Chitungwiza Harmony Singers Choir. You have raised our national flag high and made our country proud through your performance at the prestigious Tiro Mapane Choral Competitions held in South Africa… Under NDS2, we are deliberately prioritising the growth of the creative industries and tourism as key drivers of socio-economic progress,” he said.
He added that the sector offers opportunities across a broad value chain, including composers, designers, producers and event organisers, underscoring its potential to create sustainable livelihoods.
The ceremony highlighted the growing recognition of the creative industry as a key pillar in Zimbabwe’s development trajectory under Vision 2030.
