The recent visit by international artist Joe Thomas to Zimbabwe revealed the thirst by locals for international stars.

Again last year Zimbabwe we had another international artist Luciano performing in the land and it was a dream come true for many who are thirsting for big well known artists. I did manage to greet Luciano personally (a chance of a lifetime for me as well) and was at some of his press conferences. Harare during those days became colourful with the colours of the Ethiopian flag which carry some colours of the Zimbabwean flag. Many Rastafarians made Harare their home. Rastafarian language became the fashion of the town even to those who are into Hip-Hop and R&B. The coming in of these two great artists into Zimbabwe has brought hope to many of the vibrancy of the local entertainment scene if it is given enough opportunity as well as resources. Though the artists were brought in with the inclusion of Karikoga Kaseke of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) who is well known for his corrupt ways and lineage to the ruling government, his efforts have been laudable as Zimbabweans seriously need variety in terms of foreign artists coming this side.

“We are sick and tired of South African groups coming here. Off course they are good but as Zimboz we can do better in terms of bringing foreign artists here like we did with Luciano and Joe Thomas,” said Josh Banda a Harare young man.

Another group of youngsters I talked to said that it was high time more seriousness was put in bringing better artists to Zimbabwe.

“We know that our image is badly tarnished internationally but we are not as bad as people out there think. It is only these politicians who are at each others throat but we as citizens are very peaceful so I see no reason why we can’t have big artists here,” said one young man who was in the group.

Zimbabweans have for long adopted Western culture to such an extent that there is not much difference in the way of doing things between a Zimbabwean and a native black or white American. Therefore there is an insatiable thirst for international artists to come to Zimbabwe and the coming in of Joe and Luciano has just proven it. However the government needs to do more in setting the image of this country straight so that these artists come here without fear.

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