After years of facing life’s challenges, including living with a disability and struggling to gain support in the music industry, Zimbabwean musician Collen Moyo has transformed his experiences into purpose with the release of his new gospel album, Phenduka.
Moyo, who has spent over two decades in the music industry, said his faith has been central to his journey.
“Phenduka, this is my 11th album. I started off doing general music, then I decided to focus on gospel. The main song, Phenduka, means that we must come back to Jesus Christ. I was born in Nkayi, and became disabled at a young age. Life for a disabled person is very difficult, but I thank God because that has not made me look down on myself,” he said.
The album, launched on Sunday at Nkulumane Christian Fellowship Church, encourages people to return to God while promoting love, unity, and cultural pride.
Moyo explained that joining the music industry helped him gain confidence.
“When I got into music in 1993, I told myself that I am not disabled. People started seeing me as someone normal, and that gave me the courage to pursue music despite my disability. The road has been difficult—sometimes there is no money to record. I believe the government must support artists because many come up and fade away due to lack of funding. With support, we could achieve recognition worldwide,” he said.
He said Phenduka reflects both his identity as a musician and his faith.
“The album reflects who we are as a people. It teaches and guides us on how to live in peace. It promotes love, honesty, and unity among people,” he added.
Moyo said the album marks a new chapter in his career, blending gospel with traditional sounds.
“This is my second gospel album. For 25 years I did other types of music, but now I’m mixing traditional sounds with gospel. The sky is the limit. Music has no boundaries,” he said.
The launch also inspired younger artists. Lungile B, an upcoming Kwaito musician, said the event offered valuable lessons and networking opportunities.
“It’s good to meet other artists and learn from them. Artists like Collen are paving the way for us and showing the right path,” he said.
Audience members highlighted the importance of unity in the local music scene. Oscar Siziba, a Bulawayo resident, said:
“It’s important for artists, especially from Matabeleland, to come together. United we stand, divided we fall.”
Stephen Nkomo, Chairperson of the Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA), described Moyo’s success as a reflection of the city’s artistic talent.
“Artists must be visible everywhere. This album is not just for Collen, but for Bulawayo and all its artists,” he said.
Ward Councillor Siboniso Moyo echoed the call for community support.
“Bulawayo music does not get enough recognition. We need to support our artists so they can grow,” he said.
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