Midlands Media Award Winner Kick Starts Fresh Projects 

By Branton Matondo

Midlands Media Award winner and former Sheffield University award clincher Emmanuel Mhike has already commenced fresh and exciting documentaries.

Mhike recently walked away with an Arts and Entertainment reporter of the year award in a much anticipated ceremony held on Gweru ahead of veteran Gweru journalist Dumisani Ndhlovu and crime and courts reporter Deli Mathuthu.

The Zvishavane based film fanatic has already kick started documentaries meant to enlighten more on community based issues.

This publication got in touch with Mhike and he said that projects are already in full course.

“So much stories are coming. They are mainly from the marginal parts of Zimbabwe. My approach is also focused on documentaries to enrich budding talents who have lost hope and those that have been in the film and arts industry. I have already started a documentary on Zvishavane Sounds which is almost complete. In the documentary l got to interview one of the surviving members Davison Macheza at his homestead in Mhondongori,” said Mhike.

Zvishavane Sounds used to be a popular band in the country when Shabani Mine was thriving. It was a mine entertainment outfit that released popular hits like Mutongi Gava, Maenzanise, Ndiri Muranda and Viva Madzimai.

The group was later joined by Gift Amuli who is leading a band with the same name. Zvishavane sounds band members most of them died but Davison Macheza is the only surviving member of the original Zvishavane Sounds.

Mhikes recent award clinch in the Midlands capital has switched on the zeal to pursue more in the film industry as he seeks to package season 2 of the popular Kumusha Kwedu serie which has been blazing the various social media handles.

“The feeling after winning award was superb. It’s really phenomenal, everyone wants to be a winner and l am lucky to be one of those winners. We are shooting Kumusha Kwedu season 2 with support from Bulawayo based Hoguil Manufacturing pvt Ltd. Expect it later next year. It’s going to be a blast.”

Hoguil Manufacturing director Mbengo Marima confirmed the partnership and said that the engagement with Kumusha Kwedu production will benefit both parties.

Emmanuel Mhike is a complete and seasoned art package. A poet, novelist, film production fanatic, community leader and speaker who has a lot of accolades in his bag including a Sheffield University award.