Pokello Makes Good Lemonade!

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

 
This writer had never heard of Pokello Nare until the sex video clip scandal with her ex-boyfriend Desmond Chideme A.K.A Stunner. The story hit media headlines and every Tom, Dick and Harry got access to the video. Ximex mall went wild, the public was quick to judge and - Pokello was immediately labeled a prostitute whilst Desmond Chideme, a superstar for laying her in a manner most witnessed.

Stunner’s response could be equated to winning the Grammies award, though he admitted being at fault. According to him, his phone was sent for repair and that’s where the leak allegedly came from. Why he would keep such a video?  With swag, he said “pandinenge ndangogaya mudiwa wangu, I can just pull out my phone and turn on the mood, taiita tunhu twedu.” I guess for Stunner, it was also patriarchal and chauvinism mentality of satisfying his male egoism.

Todate, Pokello Nare commented less on this matter; she maintained her poise and allowed  media to quench their thirst for news, making her mince meat  breaching both her family and personal privacy. She swallowed insults and name calling more than her then boyfriend. I guess in her own space, she had it rough explaining the WHYs to her family, child, friends, let alone dealing with her own conscience. Above all, she should have felt a breach of trust and confidentiality- was it accidental or a deliberate ploy to increase Stunner’s publicity ratings? It hurts any person making public what happens within the confines of their bedroom. No wonder while chatting with big brother in 2013 BBA she referred to the incident as her “life greatest regret”.

Whilst Pokello kept it to herself, Stunner’s mouth was running faster than his brains. In a radio interview Stunner confessed, his career hit a nose dive after the sex tape, media and his corporate clients shunned him. He was quoted saying “It pulled me back a little but looking back at how I was progressing in the industry before the leak of the tape and now, I think I am beginning to get my groove back.”After the radio interview, I speculated the dude would lose her for “Breach of Trust and Confidentiality” whether it was willful or otherwise.

At the height of it all, Pokello crafted her way into Africa Big Brother house – The Chase. With nothing to lose, she went there and became her own publicist. Pokello, had her strategy in place; from day one, used the BBA platform with a continental viewership of more than 200 million to market her brand of shoes. Utilised every opportunity to sell her business at no cost. Her sense of fashion spoke volumes; the number of pair of shoes not to mention upmarket and stylish clothes left a lasting impression on both housemates and viewers.In addition to finding new love, Pokello rebranded herself a shrewd entrepreneur, a force to reckon with and a fashionista powerhouse.

After her eviction from the Big Brother House, Pokello launched a new brand of Ladies shoes, which she said “was designed in the Big brother house.” Addictive to Shoes Store was established on line. Riding on the Big Brother season titled “the chase” she named a stiletto the “Chase,” Wow! What a better way to keep the BBA funs engrossed and captivated all the way!

Social media buzz of Elikem’s grand visit to Zimbabwe followed by Pokello’s to Ghana was evident enough of how the couple had captured Africa’s heart.Thereafter, Pokello and Elikem became an unstoppable force commanding admirers and following around the continent and beyond.

Despite condemnation and the anti-Pokello campaigns, she transformed from just a shrewd hustler, a curtain raiser for a 5cent rapper to a fashionista, a flag bearer and a self made ambassador for Zimbabwe. There hasn’t been a Zimbabwean whose recognition and fame flamed like Pokello’s.

I just don’t know how I ended up searching her online, but whatever it was, gave me a positive vibe. I could not help myself getting inspired by this sister.

Regardless of your opinion of her, a few life changing lessons can be learnt from her experiences;

In life its either you allow a situation to make or break you- The power of success or failure is in your hands more than divine. If you want to win a lottery, buy a ticket. God works with you and not for you.

Always keep your head high;

Pokello kept her head high despite the condemnation and labeling. In her silence she took responsibility of her actions and never blamed her ex- she swallowed the bitter pill.

Talk is cheap; Pokello gave everyone the opportunity to talk whilst she concentrated on her dreams. She was not distracted by people’s views and condemnation.

A Misfortune can be a blessing;

One fact for sure, Pokello did not deliberately expose her sex life in the public arena- Hence a misfortune. She decided the scandal was not going to steal her dream, she saw it as an opportunity for the beginning of new things-whilst others predicted her failure. She refused to go down in history as a woman whose sexual prowess made her famous.

People don’t matter much; don’t let them be obstacles;

Pokello proved “POVO” haina basa, when you believe in your dreams and aspirations, people’s opinions of you are the least you should listen to………

Don’t look for approval or support for what you believe in, believe in yourself first;

When media and critics were busy bashing her- the only reed of inspiration she held on; was the belief in herself. She refused to seek popular opinions or rhetoric to keep her dreams alive

Money is not brains; 

Pokello made a name in her own right, despite criticism of her father being politically connected and rich. Most of you would agree with me there are many children of prominent public officials in Zimbabwe, who have nothing to their name but use every opportunity to flaunt their parents’ riches. She may have a rich and supportive family but she has proved her passion to make a name for herself in the business world.

Undeniably, Pokello is a brand which needs Zimbabwean support and not hate. Assessing her story, I find a lot of criticism  based on sheer envy and jealousness. She wasn’t cheating neither did she knowingly leak the video. In our current Zimbabwe, we have seen egoistic and self righteous people doing worse debauchery than Pokello and yet still remain darlings to many.

Considering the sour lemons we gave her, given better ingredients Pokello can really make good lemonade!

Anyway- that’s just my thinking

Black September

Populism Vs Realism: the case of Anti- Homosexual crusade in Africa

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni signed the anti-homosexuality Bill into law sparking debate and controversy around the world. In response, the gays and Lesbian community organised parties around Kampala in defiance (Redpper). Mobs and clergies took the streets in support of Museveni’s martyrdom stance; denouncing homosexuality as evil- a sin which caused destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, school pupils in defense of their “heritage” appeared on television reciting poems in support of the law. Human rights defenders frothed foam in protest, United States and Canada threatens to withdraw aid.  M7-Pakalast had the world on standstill. It was indeed, the major highlight of the week.

In his defense, “charismatic” Museveni said “"No study has shown you can be homosexual by nature, that  a man can choose to love a man... is a matter of choice. After listening to the scientists, I got the facts.
"Can somebody be homosexual simply by nature? The answer is no."

Honestly I see no reason why men here should not be attracted to these beautiful women.”  He said this whilst pointing at a female journalist at the event- there was laughter and ululation from the audience. That was done, the bill was now Law!

Where was I in all this! Colleagues and friends engaged me on facebook, twitter and email; I have lost count on invites sent to debate this subject. Luckily, I’m not connected to whatsapp anymore.

Museveni hacked me in a whirlwind (chamupupuri) -I denounced homosexuality left right and center not even seeking prudence. Being a father of boys, I dream of having biological   daughter in-laws and grandchildren to share my legacy and to increase my clan. Above all, my upbringing did not expose me to the existence and later acceptance of this sexual practice. Hence my regrettable level of intolerance.

 So….., like I said Museveni caught me in a whirlwind and was going with it, fortunately was caught in the middle, a tree branch from nowhere gripped my shirt and left me hanged to a tree, the whirlwind had to let me go and that’s when I  reflected soberly without the dust in my eyes and my head spinning circles.

I was drawn back to the grand signing of the Homosexuality Bill in Uganda, at State house. Never, in my lifetime had I seen a president devoting so much of his time to appendix a signature to a bill. In most cases it’s announced the President has signed a bill into a law. This time Museveni called a press conference, ensuring Ugandans and the world are watching.

Observing the proceedings, one would be tempted to assume M7 was about to announce his departure or state of the nation address; - the setting and prominence was of a grand ceremony. It was just the anti-homosexuality bill!

Amidst the challenges and needs of Ugandans such as the rising cost of living, lack of infrastructure, corruption, access to basic health and education services and increased rate of youth unemployment. How very important is this bill to warrant such pertinence and how does it benefit Ugandans?

Uganda like many African states, Homosexuality or sexual minorities subjects are rarely understood, accepted and encouraged. With about 80 percent of the population subscribing to the followings of Jesus Christ, a powerful minority of Moslem faith of around 10% and ninety nine percent (99%) of the population against the practice- It is not strange for homophobia to triumph. However, these are not just statistics- the percentage translates into voters and votes!

Museveni heading for polls in 2016 amid growing criticism of his leadership and regime - he desperately needs to restore people’s confidence, find reconnection with his people.

My question therefore, is the Anti-Homosexuality agenda a populist strategy or a genuine cause in defense of the right to the self determination of African people? One can challenge me questioning whether sexual minorities have no rights- For now; it’s not the point to be covered in this article. This article intends to interrogate whether or not populism and realism are at par especially with respect to the sudden pertinence of the anti-homosexuality agenda in Africa.

We have said; it is UnAfrican; it goes against our culture and religion. His Excellency Robert Mugabe putting it as it is said “homosexuals are worse than Dogs and Pigs, even animals know the difference between males and females.” Our people don’t want it; we want to preserve our sovereignty- Hold your horse please!

Surely, African people are homophobic and they seem to be a consensus on criminalizing homosexual acts. Whether it is the remedy or not; it’s difficult to say but what African governments seem to realize is  their people are conservative in accepting this practice. Here, African leaders have called on the will of the people to prevail- majority rules.

However, if the wishes of the people are respected as is in the case of the gay and lesbian community- Africa would not be where it is today, the issue of over-stayed regimes and corrupt governments wouldn’t be an issue. Are our leaders selective on what they want to hear? There are leaders in Africa on the reins of power despite majority or popular criticism. The same leaders regardless of popular criticism continue to mortgage the country’s resources for their personal gains, whilst people are starving and unemployed. Are Zimbabweans happy nechuru chamai Mujuru in Chiadzwa?

Surely our people are Homophobic- Our  leaders have no clue on how to respond to the growing impatience of their young population amidst lack of both political and economic space, The rising cost of living and energy challenges the continent is facing. With potential to earn US$30billion from intra trade, Africans have dismally failed to agree on a comprehensive framework to reduce or eradicate trade barriers in the region. We are even failing to deal with the cracks threatening to collapse a Chinese built African Union building- this is a joke really!

Priorities for African leaders seem to be misplace, whilst regulating the conduct of individuals in their bedroom or private space, Africa is struggling to raise resources to fund a contingency of troops to solve the conflict in Chad, Southern Sudan and Mali , Somalia and others.

Malaria is killing African’s twice more than HIV/AIDS. According to FAO 120 million people in Sub-Sahara Africa don’t have access to clean water. In Malawi only 7% of the populations have access to electricity and 49.3% of the population is illiterate. Aggregate statistics reveals   38% of Africans  are illiterate, 72.6% living below US$ 0.70c per day. Millions are dying of hunger and lack of healthcare facilities. Against this background is regulating sexual preferences the much needed magic potion to our problems? We have bigger issues and problems deserving attention.

Whilst I profess my reservations on the subject-African governments are guilty of using people’s emotions to garner for support. There is lack of genuineness-For example, The President of Nigeria; Jonathan Goodluck used the anti- homosexuality agenda to regain popularity. His popularity ratings were going down dismally, he had failed to deliver and fell out with some key figures in the country. The delta region is burning, religious persecution rampant and insecurity in the northern part of the country thriving and all he does is witch hunting of Gays and Lesbians.

If the current energy we are seeing and experiencing in fighting LGBTI in Africa  was the same energy our leaders would use to fight social evils such as Corruption, unemployment poverty, lack of infrastructure, failing health and education facilities, prevalence of anarchy and dictatorship. Using their energy as well, to deal with impunity and fostering a just and equitable society, would Africa not be a better place to live?

Anyway, that’s just my thinking

"Black September"

From Hope to Ruins.........Zimbabwe

By Black September memoirs-(Retlaw  Matatu Matorwa)

April 1987, Old Tafara Bus terminus was a hive of jubilation. Doors were left unlocked, food burnt to charcoal. Children playing Hwishu took their heels, on instincts, my friends and I followed the masses. Streets were empty as everybody gathered to the scene of attraction. Approaching the scene ZANU (PF) Activists Mai Bazil-Dzangare, Mai Zamani, Mai Chapasuka and others were busying around.  

The Prime Minister of the Republic and his First lady visited our community. When we arrived, Mugabe was going around greeting people. Clad in a ZANU PF T-shirt, Khaki trousers, a sliver watch and brown shoes. I shuffled to the front row, to make sure I do not miss his handshake.  

I was thrilled meeting an icon who appeared every day on news at 8 O’clock in person. News was the only program we watched last as a family; its ending comes sleeping curfew.

Those were days of see and hear no evil style of upbringing, words such as “kunyenga” and Julex would earn you beatings.

Dallas and Falcon crest were obscene for us, your own mother lying to your face “children are bought from hospital.” When your parents were just a part of your life, children belonged to the community. It was not unusual for Mai Maponga, Mudhara Nyamuzihwa or Mai Tarwireyi to discipline you before your parents. There were no strangers in our community, everyone was your relative.

Eventually, I found my way to his hand. I looked at him seeking eye contact but none came my way. He released my hand and I ran ahead to get another chance. This time he looked at me with a smile and said “Iwewe ndambokumhoresa.”

Sally Mugabe was handing out clothes to the public. She was dressed in ZANU PF attire and simple flats. Sally Mugabe was a darling to many she was humble, so down to earth and calm individual. It was easy for her to relate with other women. She was comfortable in her skin and  never bragged about her family empire. On no account did she use her husband’s title to get approval. Zimbabweans just loved her. She was not a person who competed for limelight.

Robert had a charismatic, cool, sweet and cheerful ambiance; no use for long oratory speeches to convince crowds. His presence was assuring enough “I have you at heart”.

He made a short speech acknowledging problems in our community. Promising us  sewages ponds were to be removed and relocated to Ruwa or KwaRoo. Little did he know twelve years later, that location would be one of Harare’s porshy suburbs of ZIMRE Park.

Alas, to date those sewage ponds still exist. As young boys, we enjoyed taking a straw round the ponds. Our main attraction was sneaking at unsuspecting lovebirds enjoying the comfort of the green lawn. It became a hideout for couples.My childhood friends Gilbert Maredza, Onward Mabhuru, Carlos Juma and I became notorious for stealing sugarcane from there. Even, the Chibatamoto’s Privilege Takawira and Yvonne Takawira- Matwaya owned a vegetable garden there. Those beautiful girls grew up eating those vegetables!

In 1987, bread costs 0.55cents, a kilo of meat 0.30 cents, bus to town 0.7 cents, milk plus candy cake 0.10cents, 50 kgs mealie-meal 12.50c, 10 Kingsgate 0.20 cents, tomatoes 0.5 cents and my school fees 2.00. At City Council offices known as KwaSuprintendent garbage bins and newspapers were issued free. Whenever, one buys 20-50 kg’s of mealie meal it was delivered to your house. Milk and bread vans sold their merchandise in our street each morning.

My father comfortably cared for his five children without cutting on his beers. Families were happy, our mothers enjoyed being housewives, and there wasn’t pressure with the economy. Marriages worked, our mothers were content, rarely did you hear them complaining of being needy. Getting reliable maternity service was not an issue. Nurses made impromptu visits to monitor if the newly born is being given adequate care. Free health checkups at school, free text and exercise books. We had life and Mugabe was our man. Surely, there was hope, so much Hope and lots of it.

A week after his visit, one Party State campaign started and I participated in support of the motion. This marked my first interaction with political activism even though I lacked understanding of the subject. We sang “Tinoda one party state”. To date have no idea what became of this campaign.

Had Mugabe rescinded power in 1990, No doubt he still would be adored; leaders to follow would have had it rough fitting his shoes. Mugabe would have had credit for a viable economy, social services infrastructure, peacemaker and national liberator status. He had potential to be glorified just like Nelson Mandela. Alternatively, he would be a respected statesman heading peace missions and negotiations in the region and abroad. Mugabe would have retained a fatherly, kingmaker and voice of reason status. His family would be guaranteed of a prosperous future but his death is likely to change their fortune.  Mugabe had opportunities to leave power with his name intact, blameless and hero worshiped. The liberation mentality and mafia syndrome would have departed this country; to date liberation war credentials are now a tool of holding the country at ransom. Despite criticism leveled against him, Nelson Mandela would have told his countrymen, I did my best during my time as president I never splashed your millions like Jacob Zuma.  South Africans have something to compare with.

As for President Mugabe, we are busy being told you are the best, but I wonder compared to whom? You are running the race alone, give people a comparative opportunity and let us admit to it without being coerced. The truth is ZANU PF and Robert Mugabe will be remembered for bringing hopelessness, corruption, social and economic debauchery. For being a self centered, egoistic and oppressive regime, ruling the country like an Italian Mafia. Social services declined dismally our hospitals equipment are now obsolete, health care is now a privilege of the few.

Long after you have departed, you will be remembered for crashing the hopes of our people. Future leaders will make excuses in your name; you have taken our promised land to ruins. Your good are now being outweighed by your failures and mistakes.