By Problem Masau| Sweden based cultural ambassador Luckson Chikutu has urged the government to chip in and revive the annual Zimbabwe Music Festival Bira (Zimfebi) in a bid to promote the country’s culture.

“I appeal to government to have a budget to promote cultural activities such as Zimfebi. Festivals like this put the country on the map and it helps to attract tourists,” he said.

“The festival’s objective is to bring people together through celebrating cultures from different parts of the world. We also aim to promote awareness through music,” he said.

The festival was last held in 2015 when Manlukerz was involved in an accident.

Meanwhile, Manlukerz’s cultural book Flashback Identity will be published in English on October 6.

“I am putting finishing touches on the book and it will be published on my birthday,” he said.

The book which was published in Swedish is now being translated into English.

Popularly known as Manlukerz in the entertainment industry, Chikutu says the book is a bridge between cultural and generational gap.

“After a long period of persistent writing and endless patience, finally came the result, a book titled Flashback Identity.

“The writing of the book has been a long journey with positive insights I received and a high ambition to write about my family’s history, the cultural heritage I learnt when I was growing up. The book also captures how music and dance are used to influence humanity in Zimbabwe,” said Manlukerz.

Manlukerz’s hope is that the book be used in schools to teach pupils about the rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe.

“I really want the book to be used in schools. This is my small
contribution to Zimbabwe,” he said.