Priscila Wadyewata and Dzamawuruka Mbira Band

In the heart of Chitungwiza, Harare, a powerful acoustic revival is taking place. Through the ringing tines of the sacred mbira and the driving pulse of the hosho, Priscila Wadyewata is carrying forward a legacy of spiritual healing, cultural activism, and ancestral storytelling. As the founder and director of the acclaimed Dzamawuruka Mbira Band, Wadyewata has cemented her place as one of Zimbabwe’s dedicated contemporary gwenyambiras (master mbira players).

Carrying the torch and spirit of the late, great icon Mbuya Stella Chiweshe, Priscila approaches the instrument not merely as a musical tool, but as a divine medium meant to heal the nation, guide the youth, and honor our deep historical roots.

Music with a Message: Healing the Nation
Priscila's music speaks directly to the social fabric of modern Zimbabwe. Her powerful anthems tackle pressing real-world issues head-on. Through her signature song, "Siyai Zvinodhaka," she delivers a passionate crusade against drug and substance abuse that is devastating the youth. By offering a constructive, culturally grounded alternative, she uses the mbira to pull young people back into tradition and purposeful living.

Meanwhile, her ancestral compositions—such as "Masango Matema Tateguru"—draw direct inspiration from dreams of the great ancient forests, linking listeners to the mystical spirits of the land. Her art is a bridge between the physical struggles of today and the spiritual wisdom of our ancestors.

Connecting Domboshava to Great Zimbabwe
Priscila’s cultural activism extends across the length and breadth of Zimbabwe’s monumental heritage sites. From the granite rock paintings of Domboshava to the ancient stone walls of Great Zimbabwe, she views every historic site as a sacred amphitheater.

This philosophy aligns seamlessly with the mission of Basecamp Domboshava, located right at the foot of the Domboshava caves and granite mountain. Just as Basecamp Domboshava serves as a gateway to heritage tourism, adventure, and the upcoming Mbira Training Centre, artists like Priscila Wadyewata are ensuring that the spiritual heartbeat of the nation remains alive and well-protected.

Whether she is performing live on stage or mentoring upcoming traditional musicians, Priscila Wadyewata proves that the mbira is a living, breathing force for social transformation.

Stay connected with our Gwenyambira artist profiles, upcoming festival dates, and training schedules by visiting Basecamp Domboshava News, or following our community updates on our Basecamp Domboshava Facebook Page and Domboview Facebook Page.