"Choosing to host the festival in Musina was not by accident but it was because Musina is the first port of call for Zimbabweans coming to South Africa. It made sense to spread information on organisations that can better assist Zimbabweans with various issues pertaining to access to education, health and legal services,” said Dewa Mavhinga, Regional Coordinator of the Coalition.
Zimbabwean artists such as Madiz, Jonah Moyo and the Devera Ngwena Jazz Band entertained the gathered crowds with music and dance. Madiz was the pick of the crowd, perfuming his hit song commonly known as Amina. Although the festival was addressing critical issues of human rights and human dignity it was also the perfect space to allow migrant Zimbabweans to forget about all the challenges they face.
Mus’ Town, a local drama group of young South Africans, performed a drama that acted out the experiences of Zimbabweans who crossed the Limpopo. Such experiences range from sexual abuse of young girls, xenophobic attacks, child labour and the challenge of accessing education services by young migrants.
The use of art, according to Sharon Gwati, the festival coordinator, can help to generate dialogue which will assist migrants to move forward.
Mavhinga highlighted the importance of civil society organisations coming together to work for the common good of human rights and dignity.
Nora Tapiwa from Global Zimbabwe forum expressed her concern at the high number of unaccompanied Zimbabwe minors found in Musina.
“There is an alarming number of minors that cross the Limpopo and set up their base in Musina, but most alarming is the exchange of food and other necessities for sexual favours that is rampant in the border town,” she said.
Post published in: Politics