There has been a lot of conversation lately about Jiti. Some have questioned the language. Others have questioned the dances. That is your right.
But before we condemn our own culture, let us first understand it.
Jiti did not begin with me. I inherited it. It is deeply rooted in Zimbabwean tradition. It has accompanied our people through celebrations and mourning for generations. Traditional dances like Jerusarema have always celebrated life, community, womanhood and manhood. Our ancestors were never ashamed of who they were.
Somewhere along the way, we became uncomfortable with our own reflection. Today, when someone chooses to preserve and modernise our culture, it is labelled inappropriate.
I am not creating something foreign. I am giving a modern voice to a sound that has always belonged to us. I am adding my own signature to a proudly Zimbabwean genre.
Culture survives when it is lived, sung and danced. Not when it is hidden.
So no, I will not apologise for celebrating Jiti. I will continue to sing it. I will continue to honour it. I will continue to carry it with pride.
Jiti is ours. And I will never allow it to die on my watch.
