Afro-jazz icon Victor Kunonga said the upcoming Love Yourself concert under the Afrotranc3 Series is being positioned as a cultural gathering point that centres identity, unity and emotional storytelling, drawing artists and audiences into one shared creative space.
Kunonga said, “Love Yourself is more than just a concert, it’s a celebration of self-love, self-acceptance, and embracing our unique cultural identity. It’s about recognizing our worth and believing in ourselves, our talents, and our heritage. When we love and appreciate ourselves, we’ll radiate confidence and positivity, needed to be loved by others.”
Kunonga underscored the role of music in connecting people across borders.
“Music truly is a universal language, bridging cultural gaps and uniting people from diverse backgrounds,” he said.
Pointing to his collaboration with Iranian musician Ramin Kalatbari, he said, “The collaboration with Ramin is a testament to this, showcasing the shared musical roots that transcend borders and cultures.”
He noted that the fusion of Iranian instruments with Zimbabwean rhythm would deliver a mesmerizing experience, and highlighted the significance of Steve Makoni’s involvement, saying, “Steve Makoni’s appearance is exciting. He is the writer of Handiende, one of the most covered songs, and it’s a rare opportunity to see him live.”
Outlining the direction of the Afrotranc3 Series, Kunonga said, “The vision for Afrotranc3 is clear - to bring people together through music that tells real, relatable stories.”
He added that the show is curated to spark emotional resonance.
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“It’s about creating a movement, a collective experience that stays with people long after the music fades. The hope is that attendees leave with a renewed sense of self-love, appreciation for diversity, and a deeper connection to their fellow human beings.”
As Tuku used Pakare Paye to groom upcoming musicians, so is Victor building up future stars through the deliberate inclusion of emerging voices in the line-up.
“The Afrotranc3 Series is providing a platform for talented yet lesser-known artists to shine,” he said.
He also pointed to the programme’s range, saying, “The diversity of the program is impressive. Maungira Enharira’s presentation of tradition, Steve Makoni’s soulful act, and my vibes with Agga Nyabinde, a talented writer, will create an unforgettable experience.”
Kunonga said the Zimbabwe German Society has become a strategic cultural space anchoring collaborations across disciplines.
“Spaces like the Zimbabwe German Society are becoming cultural melting pots, fostering creativity and community engagement,” he said.
The event will extend beyond music.
“The ‘Love Yourself’ event is featuring art, fashion, painting, graphics and more. It’s a holistic celebration of Zimbabwean culture,” he said.
He said, “I love making music, a medium I paint my ideas and convey messages of love, peace and hope through African rhythms and melody.”
Kunonga, who broke onto the national scene in 2004 and became a household name by 2007, continues to anchor his work in African storytelling, cultural assertion and community connection.
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