Macheso urges local companies to continue supporting artists

Musician, Alick Macheso, who was recently appointed Zimbabwe Red Cross Ambassador, said local companies must engage artists and forge partnerships that create win-win situations for all the parties.

Macheso was speaking at an event where he was endorsed by a local confectionary company.

"I am greatful and I would like to encourage our local companies to continue supporting artists," Macheso said.

The bakery's brand manager, Mr Brighton Mazarura said his company is happy to be supporting local artists, adding that such opportunities will go a long way in improving the welfare of local artists.

"We feel happy to be involved in this development and if done by many companies, our arts industry will improve significantly," said Mazarura.

Invited guest, Retailers Association of Zimbabwe member, Denford Mutashu said Macheso's endorsement is a positive development that other corporates must emulate so as to embrace and celebrate Zimbabwean arts.

"It's a good development which goes a long way in celebrating and embracing our own talent," said Mutashu.

Most companies across the world normally jostle to have their products identified with celebrities, thus lifting the standards of lives of such artists.

However, Zimbabwe seems to be only re-awakening to that trend as evidenced in the way the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority has been working with Dudu Manhenga and Sulumani Chimbetu.

The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Management has worked with Pax Gomo while Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe partnering with Baba na Mai Charamba.