Music and national development will intersect this Sunday when artists from across Manicaland province converge at Mutare Hall, formerly Queens Hall, for the Musicians for Economic Development (M4ED) programme, a gathering designed to amplify the role of the creative sector in Zimbabwe’s socio-economic transformation.
Running from 10am to 2pm, the event is expected to draw established performers, emerging talent, arts administrators and policy stakeholders, all united by a shared vision of positioning music as a viable economic driver in line with Vision 2030. Organisers said the showcase goes beyond performance, aiming to create a structured roadmap that empowers musicians while aligning the arts with national development priorities.
The programme will be hosted by Brian Samaita, the Musicians for Economic Development Manicaland chairperson, who said the initiative reflects growing recognition of the arts as both a cultural and economic force.
“This is about showcasing talent, but more importantly, it is about mobilisation and organisation,” Samaita said.
“Musicians must be part of the economic conversation. Through engagement with leadership and stakeholders, we want to build sustainable pathways for creatives to earn, grow and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
The event’s guest of honour, Minister of State for Manicaland Province, Misheck Mugadza, according to organisers, is expected to underscore government’s commitment to decentralised development and inclusive growth.
They said the minister's presence signals increased state engagement with the creative industries, particularly at provincial level where many artists often operate without adequate platforms or resources.
Also expected are senior political and organisational figures including Tichaona Mukodza, Zanu PF provincial chairperson; Albert Nyakuedzwa, provincial political commissar; Tholakhele Moyo Ndlovu, national chairperson of Musicians for Economic Development; and other dignitaries drawn from the arts and governance sectors.
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For many artists in Manicaland, the gathering presents a rare opportunity to engage decision-makers directly.
“Beyond performances, the programme will feature discussions on policy alignment, artist welfare, access to markets, intellectual property, and the need for coordinated structures that can turn creativity into sustainable livelihoods,” Samaita said
M4ED national chairperson Moyo Ndlovu said the mobilisation drive was part of a broader national effort to organise musicians under a shared economic vision.
“Music has always shaped our identity and carried our stories,” Moyo Ndlovu said.
“Now we are saying it must also build our economy. When musicians are organised, skilled and supported, they can create jobs, inspire communities and contribute to GDP. That is the essence of Musicians for Economic Development.”
The Manicaland chapter showcase is also expected to highlight local sounds and genres that define the province’s musical landscape, giving upcoming artists exposure while reaffirming the province’s cultural richness.
Organisers said this approach ensures that no talent is left behind, echoing the Second Republic’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
