Zim’s first all-women band

aspects of music. It is a calculated attempt by women to walk into the male-dominated technical fields of arts. Most arts organizations and musicians don’t give women a chance, believing women are only good as dancing flowers. Amakhosikazi has already released an album, Ukuthandana, and another one is coming. They have toured nationally and are waiting for their break internationally. Initially the plan was to group together experienced musicians – but no one responded to the advert. Amakhosi therefore had to start from scratch teaching the women to play all the instruments. “Women have been sidelined for a long time making it difficult for them to come out fully and participate in music,” said one of the tutors.
Since then, the group has grown in strength and is now celebrated in local music circles. In an age that specializes in digital music, they are one of the few leaders in terms of live music. They recently took part in the launch of the Zimbabwe International Film Festival (ZIFF), backed South African mega star Yvonne Chaka Chaka at the Sports Diner in Harare. The challenges they have faced include family problems, as they have to raise their families. They also have financial problems and need instruments to practice at home as individuals. – Own correspondent