Tariro neGitare: We should help young musicians succeed

Zimbabwean singer and philanthropist Tariro neGitare has been quoted previously as saying that female artists should not expect anyone to create opportunities for them but claim the available spaces instead.

NeGitare is the founder of the Magitare Africa Trust, an arts and culture development platform that supports Zimbabwean creatives. Music In Africa had a chat with the accomplished musician ahead of tomorrow's Women In Music concert at Goethe-Institut in Nairobi, and all we could come away with after interviewing her was hope for the future.

MUSIC IN AFRICA: How has your experience been as a female artist?

TARIRO NEGITARE: It has been very interesting – many lessons and challenges that are meant to be overcome. I have thoroughly enjoyed it so far and looking forward to more new experiences. Like any entrepreneurial journey, it's had its hurdles, but these have made me search for my purpose and in the process find my creator, who has changed the trajectory of my life in a big way.

Would you say African female musicians have managed to claim their place in a male-dominated industry or is there still need to advocate for more?

African female musicians have managed to create their space to a certain extent but more can still be done. We have to move away from thinking that someone else will create the spaces that work for us. We need to create these spaces for ourselves. The Women In Music platform is one such space and needs more support to showcase the vast giftings on our continent.

Which African female musician inspires you and why?

A lot of female musicians inspire me. Angelique Kidjo is one musician who has beaten the odds and trailblazed with her unique voice and steadfast character. She, among others, has set the pace for us.

You recently returned from the Arts in Mind Festival in the UK. What were you doing there?

The Arts in Mind festival is a celebration of innovative collaborations between researchers at King's College London and the creative and cultural sector. It showcases work that explores new ways to improve well-being and facilitate better understanding of mental health, the brain and the mind.

By God's grace, I went to showcase a project that I'm running in Zimbabwe, which aims to use creative techniques to engage with young people. It was a great experience and I felt challenged to do more in Zimbabwe and Africa as a whole in regarding mental health and well-being. We already have it in us and we need to embrace our own systems more.

What would be the benefit of a festival like Arts in Mind in Africa?

There is need for mental-health awareness in Africa and the creative arts provide the perfect tool for that. I feel such a platform would allow people to talk about mental health freely and allow those affected to seek help before it’s too late.

You recently supported a fundraiser for young creatives in Zimbabwe at the Mindful Arts Hub. Why do you think it’s important for established artists to support young creatives?

I received a lot of support in my journey as a creative, so it only makes sense to give back. I also feel that we need to create the calibre of creatives that we want to see in the future and I am committed to use the platforms that God has given me to do just that. We were created by a creator to be creatives and I believe we will have missed the mark if we didn’t duplicate more of ourselves as artists.

What does the future hold for Zimbabwean music?

Zimbabwean music is headed for greatness. There is a new dispensation on the political front and that is visible even creatively. I feel that we have a blank canvas ahead of us and we are in a position to make a future that we have always dreamt of. Creatives should now position themselves and grab every opportunity that is presented to them.

What do you most look forward to at the Women In Music concert and what should the audience expect?

This is my debut performance in Nairobi, so look out for a fresh sound, inspired music and words of wisdom. Be ready for an experience you will have imprinted on your heart for a long time.

For more information about Tariro neGitare's concert in Nairobi, click here.