Cowichan Valley's own Amy and Tafadzwa Matamba, who make up the musical duo Mbira Spirit, took part in the Hurungwe Arts Festival — a premier international event celebrating music, dance, theatre, and visual arts which was held in Karoi, Zimbabwe from July 25 to 27, and attended by thousands.
"It was really wonderful to have such a warm welcome," said Amy. "Along our journey through different towns, rural areas, and even through a radio interview in Chinoyi, Tafadzwa has reunited with many relatives, friends, and people he once new and had not seen for many years."
"Amy has been warmly welcomed as 'Makoti' (daughter in law) by family and beyond as the people even call out on the streets if knowing our music," added Tafadzwa.
As if the warm reception and positive feedback from the crowds weren't enough Cowichan's talented twosome also received mention in Honorable Miriam Chombo's (Minister of Mashonaland West) speech, leaving them feeling both appreciated and honoured. They were also presented with a certificate of participation, and a glowing letter from H.A.F. director Joel Zilala and chairman Noboth Jembere, which eloquently summed up how their contribution was invaluable to this year's festival with a truly captivating performance. It displayed their passion for mbira music which shone through in every note as it left all inspired by their dedication by both preserving and promoting Zimbabwean cultural heritage, the letter said.
"It was an absolute honour to receive such a glowing letter from H.A.F and it was made very clear that our attendance made a significant difference," said Tafadzwa. "It is our intention to work together to continue to grow the Hurungwe Arts Festival and include the festival in our cultural exchanges with Canada."
Their popular H.A.F alongside other talented dance troupes, and comedians swiftly led to them to being invited to perform at the National Heroes Day Commemoration in Chinoyi where they were honoured to collaborate with both a dance group and band with more than 20,000 in attendance on the National Heroes Acres grounds.
"We were deeply welcomed as the announcers even cried for 'Makoti' to carry the water in a clay pot on my head and present for the delegates," said Tafadzwa. "We had the privilege at both events to witness some of the best dance and music performances in the traditional music in the Hurungwe district and made significant connections for future collaborations."
Mbira Spirit wasted no time in taking the opportunity to record music for their new album at ELboy Productions. They have already recorded five songs in Chinoyi and Harare, Zimbabwe. The talented Cowichan couple had the pleasure of making music video magic with an exceptional youth dance group who were also in attendance at both events, and are planning another in the weeks to come.
"We are very excited to be working with very talented producers and musicians," said Tafadzwa. "We are playing the traditional mbira music and the music videos will depict the stories, traditions and culture of Zimbabwe. We are also very excited to be finding great support for our music and especially our message to our youth to enjoy your youth but don’t spoil it by using drugs or teenage pregnancy."
"We hope together to strengthen cultural exchange between Canada and Zimbabwe, creating opportunities for artists, educators, students, and communities while contributing to local economic development," said Amy.
Mbira Spirit have extended their stay until the beginning of October so they may perform, and finish up their musical projects. Their first release hits the Zimbabwe airwaves on Aug. 30. As they work towards reviving the Matamba cultural Arts and Education Festival in September, 2026, they aim to bring the best of Zimbabwe’s dancers and musicians to attend the festival in Cowichan and then tour together up Island.
"We hope our Zimbabwean fans and followers take away a sense of pride in their culture, traditions and heritage as we include historical stories such as during the liberation war," said Amy. "We hope our music will help to express, reveal and share the situations encountered and provide some healing and acknowledgement."
"From our international fans and followers we hope our music and videos will engage them so they can experience the beauty, life and culture in Zimbabwe," said Tafadzwa. "It is our hope that some will want to learn more or even come to Zimbabwe for a cultural exchange."
