GWERU - Zimbabwe’s famed mbira orchestra; Mbira Dzenharira believes recording companies are inadequately supplying the market, thus creating a gap for pirates.

Mbira Dzenharira’s Chaka Chakandika told Daily News that local recording companies created artificial shortages, hence fuelling piracy.

“We many look north, south, east and west and never find a solution to the piracy problem which I think for Zimbabwe is man-made.

“Our local recording companies are the ones creating these artificial shortages,” said Chakandika.

The seasoned mbira player, who doubles as the band manager said: “We came to realise that we are our masters. We own our destiny. We are holders of the future hence we should come up with a solution to curb piracy.

“It’s surprising as local recording companies try and market products that they cannot supply.
 
“This was chiefly the reason why we recorded and distributed out last album Dziva Renjuzu (2011) which is selling well across the country.

“Going independent was an attempt to creating more opportunities, for ourselves,” said Chaka.

Mbira Dzenharira is an ensemble that was established by Tendai Samaita Gahamadze.

The group is by far the country’s most popular, among those who play mbira music.

After having recorded with Gramma Records the ensemble which now amassed the wealthiest and quotable catalogue of at least 11 albums, discovered self-worthiness and how remunerating it is for a hard-working team as they are.

Today they run their own affairs — recording and marketing their music.

Based in Norton where they manufacture and research on African musical instruments, the internationally-acclaimed outfit also founded Nharira Cultural Centre in Katanga Norton. - Alfred Tembo