Tuku Music launches Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts

The inaugural event seeks to honour the remarkable life and legacy of the late Zimbabwean musician Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi who died on 23 January 2019 at the age of 66. Themed Dairai, Sabelani, Answer!, the festival celebrates Mtukudzi’s outstanding contributions to music and culture, while also serving as a call to action for communities to unite and shape their desired future. Additionally, OMIFA will commemorate Mtukudzi’s birthday on 22 September.

A full line-up, featuring headlining acts, will be revealed soon, according to the festival organisers.

“Oliver Mtukudzi was not only a hero and icon to us as his family, he was loved by all of Zimbabwe and beyond,” Mtukudzi’s daughter and OMIFA director Samantha Mtukudzi told Music In Africa. “We have created the festival to become the foremost platform where people can gather, celebrate and remember him annually, on the dates around his birthday which is the 22nd of September.”

The festival seeks to reflect Mtukudzi’s genre, style, and influence. “We will put out a call for content this coming week and we will have a panel to select the best from the submissions,” she said. “We are preparing a well-organised event with top quality acts augmented by a fun play area for children, a wellness hub plus food, beverage and crafts stalls, and more, to guarantee a comfortable, uplifting and enjoyable experience. The festival will put a spotlight on Pakare Paye Arts Centre and its activities that promote Norton and continue to support emerging artists.”

Aside from music showcases, the festival will feature a commemorative dinner and a series of workshops and exciting performances and productions by leading artists in dance, art and craft, fashion, theatre and film.

“Oliver Mtukudzi's vision, sound, fashion and lyrics will be experienced in a lot of the performances and productions that will be presented throughout the programme,” Samantha added.

OMIFA comes five years after the death of the ‘Neria’ hitmaker, whose career spanned over four decades. He was one of the most influential and iconic figures in African music. Mtukudzi’s unique blend of traditional Shona music, Afropop and folk styles earned him international recognition and critical acclaim. He released 66 albums, collaborated with numerous global artists, and won numerous awards, including multiple Kora Awards and a Grammy nomination. Mtukudzi was also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and a dedicated philanthropist. His music addressed social issues, promoted cultural heritage, and inspired generations of artists and fans worldwide.