THE Scripts and Bars programme, known for unifying young Zimbabwean creatives from different disciplines, has undergone a name change, rebranding as the Music Connects Africa (Zimbabwe) accelerator programme.
Officials recently called for music artistes and managers based in Zimbabwe, who are looking to accelerate their careers and music businesses, to join the 2025 cohort of the programme.
The call is designed for songwriters, performing artistes, producers, DJs, and talent managers based in Zimbabwe, who are 18 years and above and actively working within the music sector.
Selected participants will benefit from music business masterclasses, financial support, market access, mentorship, and showcase opportunities. Masterclasses and mentorship will be facilitated by music industry experts from across Zimbabwe, Africa, and the United Kingdom (UK).
Through the Scripts and Bars programme, Music Connects Africa has supported over 100 emerging music and literature professionals across Zimbabwe between 2021 and 2024.
According to officials, the programme has “awarded 24 grants, provided market access opportunities through 15 showcase platforms, and has led to the creation of 36 jobs to date.”
The first cohort of the Scripts and Bars incubator comprised 75 creatives from Zimbabwe and 25 creatives from the UK.
Last year in March, the programme culminated in a concert and cocktail event hosted at The Venue in Avondale, Harare.
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The event featured exhibitions of the creatives’ work, as well as performances from Bulawayo- and Harare-based music and spoken word artists such as EXFX (DJ, producer), Tawonga (animator), Sonkomose (poet), Sihlobo Bulala (blogger), singers Lalla Martin and Eden Lang, as well as hip-hop artists Yariis Hillz and Indigo Saint, among others.
“So, the long-term impact we are looking to see is for Music Connects Africa to significantly contribute towards establishing a resilient and thriving local music industry where music creatives build sustainable careers,” Keith Kuhudzai, managing director of Kay Media Africa, told IndependentXtra.
An official statement released this week urges participants to only apply if they are committed to developing their music career or business as a priority and must be able to attend all activities in person or online.
Some of the creatives who have benefited from the programme include animator Kuda Rwizi, Afro-soul singer Kim Makumbe, author and poet Margaret Chideme, Banshee (poet), Novuyo Seagirl (singer), and Meet Luminous (hip-hop artist), among others.
The Music Connects Africa programme is an initiative of the British Council in partnership with the Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.
The programme is delivered by Kay Media Africa, a local African multimedia production studio and consultancy, which has been collaborating with Reprezent, a youth-led radio station based in Brixton, South London (UK).
The objective is to contribute to the inclusive economic and social growth of young people and underrepresented communities through the strengthening of the cultural and creative industries ecosystem, with a particular focus on music.
The programme runs from January to June 2025 and provides a unique blend of learning masterclasses, recording camps, showcasing, and networking opportunities designed to nurture talent and offer insights into the music industry.
It features industry experts who are passionate about sharing knowledge, expertise, and inspiring the next generation of musicians.
