US$500 each windfall for Shurugwi artists from.Collins Mnangagwa
Collins Mnangagwa, the son of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, left a lasting impression on the artistic community in Shurugwi when he extended unexpected support to local artists during the handover ceremony of Zanu-PF offices. His act of generosity, which saw performers receiving cash gifts ranging from $100 for students to $500 for more experienced artists, has sparked conversations across the district. This gesture caught many by surprise and has brought hope to a community that often feels overlooked and underappreciated.
At the event, about 15 artists showcased their talents, but most of them had come expecting no compensation for their efforts. For many, the cash gifts felt like a recognition they had long waited for. Poet Brighton Mashazhu shared his emotions after receiving $400. “I am humbled by the surprise kind of support that… I had gone there to perform for free but surprisingly, am now US$400 richer. This is a tip of the iceberg. Hopefully local events organisers will emulate the good gesture,” he said. His words reflected the gratitude and hope shared by many artists in attendance.
One artist, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed their amazement in even stronger terms. “I am tongue-tied by the kind of support. Local artists are often used and dumped like used condoms but the member of the first family has set an example that artworks are valuable business, hence artists must be paid for their services and time they spend on crafting such work.” This raw and candid statement highlights a struggle that many artists face. Their work is often taken for granted, leaving them to feel as though their time and creative efforts hold little value.
Mavis Koslek, Chairperson of the Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association, also commented on the impact of Collins Mnangagwa’s gesture. She believed that such support could bring a wave of inspiration and motivation to artists. “Such magnitude of support if allowed to continue in our district and province has the power to release creative energy among both upcoming and seasoned artists and made to appreciate cultural heritage and cultivate rich interests, which they can pursue in their leisure and, later in life,” she said. Her words emphasized how such acts could lead to the growth and development of talent in the region.
Even those with differing political views recognized the sincerity of Collins’ actions. An opposition councillor, who spoke anonymously, shared their thoughts. “This had no political connotation; the young man is people-centred. His gesture today was genuine, apolitical and non-partisan; not even one artist was asked his or her political affiliation before awarded his token of appreciation after performing.” The councillor’s remarks reinforced the idea that this was not a politically motivated act but a genuine effort to support local talent.
The generosity shown by Collins Mnangagwa has sparked a larger conversation about the value of art and the importance of fair compensation for artists. His actions have not only uplifted those who participated but have also encouraged the community to reconsider how it views and treats its creative minds. Many hope this act will inspire others to follow his example, bringing more recognition and respect to artists in Shurugwi and beyond.
