The board of censors will today decide on whether or not South African dancer Zodwa Wabantu should be allowed to perform at the forthcoming Harare International Carnival without underwear. A statement circulating on social media attributed to acting Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Patrick Zhuwao said Zodwa was not welcome. However, sources in the Home Affairs Ministry said the board, chaired by former Cabinet minister, educationist and historian Dr Aeneas Chigwedere, was deliberating on the matter and a decision was expected today.
“The Censorship Board is seized with the matter of South African musician Zodwa Wabantu on whether she will be given permission to perform or not,” said an impeccable source.
“The board will announce tomorrow (this morning) if she is going to be given a licence or denied. The board will consider if her acts comply with the rules and regulations of this country.”
Zodwa Wabantu said she was “unsettled” when she was asked to perform at a Government event in Zimbabwe on condition that she wears underwear.
She does not put on underwear when she goes on stage.
Despite her reservations, Zodwa Wabantu has accepted the job at the carnival, but said she had still not decided if she would adhere to the condition of putting on the underwear.
If granted permission, the foreign provocateur is set to be one of the star attractions in this year’s edition of the Harare International Carnival when she joins 10 Samba girls from Brazil and nearly 20 other such dancers from Cuba.
Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) is organising the carnival.
At least 25 countries are expected to participate in the street party.
Recently, ZTA boss Mr Karikoga Kaseke said Zodwa Wabantu would be invited to perform at the carnival under strict conditions that she would be wearing undergarments.
He said she was likely to upset traditional chiefs who would be part of the carnival if she turned up without underwear.
This year’s carnival street party will be attended by top South African musicians alongside Winky D and Jah Prayzah.-Herald
