WHEN the sun sets on great artistes, their legacy often burns brighter than ever before.
Such is the case with the late Zimbabwe’s music grandee Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, whose voice, guitar and soul-stirring lyrics echoed across the continent and far beyond.
This September 19-20, the Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts (OMFIA) returns for its second edition at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton and promises a heartfelt celebration of a man whose music was not just entertainment, but a movement of social consciousness.
Samantha Mtukudzi, his daughter, confirmed in a Press statement that it is all set for the second edition of the OMFIA, which is designed to commemorate Tuku’s legacy under the theme Todii — Senzeni — What Shall We Do?.
Headlining the entertainers are the internationally acclaimed musicians Jah Prayzah, Feli Nandi, Jah Signal, Saintfloew, Tamy Moyo, Vee Mhofu, The Black Spirits, Agga Nyabinde, Mandava, Munya Nyamarebvu, Prestige “the Band”, Tatenda Mhangami, Mokoomba, Hwamanda, SaMasamba and Terry Mbofana, among others.
Samantha, the festival director, also made it known that a new website for the festival is now live.
She said the new pool area for relaxation and entertainment, full bar and catering services is expected to light up high end social engagement, with local crafts people showcasing their work.
There will also be a children’s programme with school performances as well as fashion intervention by Skey and Strobo, who will be honouring Tuku’s iconic outfits and a completed Tuku mural as a tribute.
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“We’re thrilled to bring such a diverse and dynamic group of performers. More surprises are still to come as we finalise the schedule,” Samantha said.
“A major highlight of OMFIA remains its children’s program which has seen strong participation from schools responding to the festival’s theme through creative performances.
“Tickets for the festival will be available from next week at Pakare Paye, select outlets and online via the Magetsi platform.”
She added: “Last year’s turnout was incredible despite the challenges that come with starting a new event. We are always listening to feedback and we are working hard with our team to make this edition even better.
“This festival is about bringing people together and continuing to remember and honour Dr Mtukudzi.”
Born on September 22, 1952 in Highfield, Harare, Mtukudzi carved out a decades-long career that saw him release over 60 albums.
From Todii to Neria and Tozeza Baba, his songs became anthems of hope, reflection and resistance.
With a gravelly voice and an unmatched fusion of traditional Shona music, South African mbaqanga and Afro-jazz, Mtukudzi created a genre of his own, Tuku Music.
Beyond music, he was a Unicef Goodwill Ambassador, a cultural icon, and a mentor to many through his Pakare Paye Arts Centre.
Among his accolades are the Cavallo Order of Merit (Italy), Kora Awards, Zimbabwean Music Awards, and the National Arts Merit Award for Lifetime Achievement.
The importance of cultural festivals like OMFIA cannot be overstated.
They serve as living archives of our shared heritage and provide platforms for intergenerational dialogue.
Under this year’s theme Todii — Senzeni — What Shall We Do?, the festival blends music, arts and education to reflect on social challenges, echoing Mtukudzi’s lyrical activism.
Such festivals help preserve artistic legacies, inspire young artistes and foster unity, including values, which Mtukudzi championed in his life and music.
Mtukudzi may best be remembered for his deep humanity and the way he used music as a tool for healing and introspection.
Whether questioning social injustice in Bvuma Wasakara, challenging silence in Todii, or comforting the grieving in Neria, his message was always clear that art should uplift and provoke thought.
His work transcended borders and continues to resonate, reminding us that though legends pass on, their light does not fade.
As the drums beat and voices rise again at Pakare Paye this September, they won’t just be making music — they will be echoing the heartbeat of a legend who sang not just with his voice, but with his soul.
