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THE former member of Afrofusion band Afrika Revenge, Willis Wataffi, says he remains in the game and will continue to support local artistes to make it onto the big stage.
An album by musician Edgar Kaye Muzah, which he collaborated with Wataffi, clinched the “Rest of Africa” accolade at the South African Music Awards (SAMA 30) recently.
The accolade was awarded for the project “Son of a Tribe” (Royalty Edition).
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Wataffi, a founding member of Afrika Revenge, said: “Thank you Africa. Congratulations to Zimbabwe because you both supported me up to winning the ‘Rest of Africa’ award for ‘Son of a Tribe’ (Royalty Edition) by Edgar Kaye Muzah and Afrika Revenge’s Willis Wataffi during SAMA 30.”
He added: “I am now writing, arranging, producing and publishing the music businesses for artistes in South Africa, Middle East, and East and West Africa.”
Wataffi said he provided music for Muzah’s latest album, which won at the SAMA.
“Our victories should be told by us. Sanctions suppress anything remarkable about Zimbabweans, but this SAMA accolade is a testament to our resilience and talent,” he said.
Celebrating 25 years of Qaya music
Wataffi paid tribute to Zimpapers for its longstanding support of Afrika Revenge.
He said Zimpapers brands like The Sunday Mail, The Herald and H-Metro had played a critical role in their music journey.
“Thank you for being part of our 25-year arts and culture journey.”
To mark the anniversary, Wataffi announced a “gratitude tour” that includes free 30-minute performances for community celebrations such as weddings and birthdays.
He thanked the Government for its local content policy on the airwaves, which saw the emergence of various artistes, including Afrika Revenge.
Tourism advocacy
While celebrating his achievements, Wataffi expressed concern about the Zimbabwe-South Africa tourism dynamics. He noted how Zimbabwe’s attractions, like the Victoria Falls, are often marketed as South African destinations.
“At the Cape Town International Airport, I have seen Victoria Falls promoted as a South African tourist attraction. This misrepresentation undermines Zimbabwe’s tourism efforts.
“International tourists often visit Zimbabwe for our wildlife and scenery, but return to South Africa for accommodation, leaving little economic benefit for us.”
He urged Zimbabwean authorities to better promote the country’s tourism offerings, emphasising that Zimbabwe should reap the fruits of its natural resources and attractions.
Wataffi called on Zimbabweans to highlight the nation’s progress.
“Let’s start sharing our wins. Be they new schools, clinics or other infrastructure projects; we must proudly present these developments to the world,” he said.
“Zimbabwe’s achievements under the New Dispensation are tangible, and it’s only through collective effort that we can continue to grow.”
Wenslus Murape
