Veteran Zimbabwean musician Giant Tagarisa is using his music as a powerful tool to combat early child marriages and substance abuse, aligning his artistic message with government efforts to curb growing social ills.
With a career spanning more than three decades, Tagarisa has released over 50 singles, most of which confront pressing socio-cultural and economic challenges affecting communities across the country.
Speaking in an interview in Harare, Tagarisa said music plays a critical role as an agent of social change due to its wide reach and emotional impact.
“Music speaks to people about their daily encounters and acts as an agent of socio-cultural and economic change. It evokes memories, influences behaviour and reinforces positive outcomes in society,” he said.
His latest releases, “Achiri Pwere” and “Jonso Siya Guka,” directly tackle child exploitation and drug abuse respectively. Achiri Pwere condemns individuals who use wealth to lure young girls and boys into early marriages, while Jonso Siya Guka serves as a personal appeal to his child and peers to stay away from drugs.
“Through my music, I take the opportunity to fight against early child marriages, especially where some wealthy individuals use their riches to sexually abuse young people. Our music seeks to complement government efforts in fighting all societal ills,” Tagarisa added.
Renowned producer Maselo PaBeat, who works closely with the artist, said Tagarisa’s music has gained significant traction across various digital platforms, resonating with diverse audiences.
- Drug, alcohol abuse impacting on children
- Midlands registers spike in drug abuse
- Chanter Dhadza D in drug abuse drive
- COVID-19 lockdowns fuelled drug abuse among learners
Keep Reading
“His work has impacted different demographics because the messages are relevant and contextual. From the feedback we receive, some songs attract thousands of views just days after release,” Maselo said.
A contemporary musician with a strong social conscience, Tagarisa has collaborated with notable artists such as Pah Chihera, Baba Troy and Andy Muridzo, further amplifying his message.
He attributes his firm stance against child marriages and substance abuse to his church background and his long musical journey, which began in 1986.
Tagarisa’s efforts form part of a wider movement within Zimbabwe’s music industry, alongside artists such as Minister Michael Mahendere and Alick Macheso, who are also using music to raise awareness against child abuse and drug misuse.
