HARARE – Mambo Guramatunhu, an illustrious multi-award-winning spoken word poet and writer, is all set to launch his much-anticipated second album titled “ZVOMBO” on November 11, 2023.
Mambo Guramatunhu, whose real name is Ngonidzashe Paradza, hails from Chiredzi, Masvingo and but grew up in a place between Zimuto and Zaka in Masvingo.
He initially worked as a secondary school teacher and then transitioned into the arts full time.
Guramatunhu’s work in the album is a testament to the power of poetry as a catalyst for social change.
“ZVOMBO” marks a significant step in Mambo Guramatunhu’s artistic journey, symbolizing his graduation from “kindergarten poetry” to more sophisticated and impactful work.
The album launch also coincides with his 30th birthday, making it a momentous celebration of his art and personal growth.
The album launch is scheduled to take place at the Jason Mphepo Little Theatre in Harare from 5 pm to 8 pm on November 11, 2023.
It promises to offer an enriching and family-friendly experience.
Tickets are available at the Jason Mphepo Little Theatre and Galaxy Mall in the CBD, and can be purchased by contacting Caroline at +263 786 871 430.
Poetry, he believes, can ignite revolutions, raise awareness on crucial issues, and challenge the status quo.
Mambo Guramatunhu intends to use his poetic prowess to address significant societal challenges, including drug abuse, gender-based violence, corruption, and the pressing need for better service delivery.
In his own words, “Poetry is a weapon, a catalyst, a spark that ignites change. Poetry has a long history of being used to drive social movements and inspire revolutions. In this album, I am using my poetry as a tool to fight drug abuse, GBV, corruption, and demand service delivery from relevant authorities.”
Poesic: The Fusion of Poetry and Music
While Mambo Guramatunhu’s first album, “Nduri Upenyu,” was a foray into spoken word poetry, “ZVOMBO” takes a unique twist.
He describes it as a fusion of poetry and music, a genre he terms “poesic.”
The album offers a fresh and melodious perspective on poetry, combining the lyrical beauty of words with the harmonious sounds of music.
Mambo Guramatunhu’s Notable Projects and Awards
Mambo Guramatunhu’s artistic journey has been marked by several notable projects and accolades.
Some of his best and popular projects include “Basa ndimi makarida,” “Munoinyomberei Masvingo,” “Zvemitupo,” “Ndini paya,” and “Kumberi Takamirigwa,” which is his published book.
He has also been a notable figure of the annual LitFest Harare festival which offers a platform for talent poets and performing arts practitioners to showcase their talents to international stakeholders.
Among his numerous awards, the most significant is the NAMA Awards nomination for the best outstanding spoken word poet of the year in 2022.
Challenges and Hopes for the Future
Like many artists, Mambo Guramatunhu faces funding challenges. He believes that giving poets more platforms on television and radio would significantly benefit their ability to fund themselves, similar to musicians.
A Message to Aspiring Artists
Paradza also took time to encourage young artists to be humble, open to learning, and willing to perfect their craft.
He further emphasised the importance of letting one’s art speak for itself, as it can open doors and work wonders.
Mambo Guramatunhu’s “ZVOMBO” is expected to be a melodious and lyrical journey through the power of poetry, set to inspire, challenge, and ignite change.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique fusion of poetry and music.
