The 25th of November is a significant day, as it is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence. To commemorate this day, a group of Zimbabwean artists are celebrating with song and dance as an expression of their appreciation and commitment to promoting the elimination of violence against women. Artists from Zimbabwe and South Africa will hold a jazz concert to raise awareness on gender-based violence that continues to plague nations across the world. Their voices not only serve as a reminder of the importance of this day, but also as a celebration of the progress that has been made to end gender-based violence. The concert will be held at the Theatre in the Park in Harare.
“The concert is dedicated to honoring the women who have suffered and are continuing to suffer from the violence inflicted upon them. Many people are hesitant to share the struggles they are facing due to fear and feeling isolated. Unfortunately, this keeps them from receiving the support and understanding they need to get through difficult times. Through this concert, we want to send a message of hope, comfort, inspiration, and support to show those in need that we are here for them and ready to offer whatever assistance we can.” says performer and organizer Leon Jalasi.
The lineup for the concert includes Healed By Music, Miss Patience, Evans Mapfumo, Vazukuru VeAfrica, Daisy Zigode, Thabo “Thabone” Masilela from South Africa, and MiSound and the Pioneers.
“The event itself is a pure reflection of how man and women should co-exist in harmony as this is replicated by the coming together of various female and male musicians who shall perform and share the platform for one cause,” proclaimed Evans Mapfumo.
Daisy Zigode mused that the upcoming concert is sure to be an exciting platform for raising creative awareness and informing society on important gender-based violence against women issues. Miss Patience chimed in, emphasizing her responsibility as an artist to spread the message of love.
“It promises to be a fun-filled, informative event for the whole family, with unique talent from both male and female artists,” she added.