Traditional Music Artist ManLuckerz Makandire Promotes Zimbabwean Culture in Europe

Luckson Chezhira Chikutu, known on stage as ManLuckerz Makandire, has spent nearly two decades promoting Zimbabwean culture abroad. Based in Sweden, he leads the band Zim-Traditional Unity, which includes members from Sweden, Mozambique, Uganda, Gambia-Senegal, and other countries. Together, they perform traditional Zimbabwean music and share the nation’s cultural heritage internationally.

Since 2012, ManLuckerz Makandire has organised exchange programmes between Sweden and Zimbabwe to foster cultural understanding. “My goal is to spread Zimbabwean culture to other nations,” he said. His band recently performed at Bagarmossens Folkets and will perform throughout September at the Cultural Festival for Peace at Fisksätra Church and Mosque of Fisksätra.

In 2018, he received an award for advancing African culture in Europe and was nominated for the 2019 Nama Diaspora Awards. “The fact that people notice the small things you do is one of the things that still brings me joy today. It takes bravery to go on in life. I like to preserve my culture and identity, which is why I do this art,” he said. His commitment to cultural preservation also led him to write a book, FlashBack Identity, in Swedish and English to share his heritage globally.

ManLuckerz Makandire emphasises respect, honesty, and punctuality as key principles in both life and business. “Being truthful and treating people with respect are the most crucial aspects. I discovered that we are all the same. Honour the culture of others,” he said.

Reflecting on his journey, the 2017 National Arts Merit Awards Outstanding Diaspora Artiste nominee recalled early challenges. “I remember not having money for transport and walking from St. Mary’s in Chitungwiza to Harare for a crucial meeting. Talking without doing is pointless. God helps those who help themselves.”

He credits his brother, Aaron Chiundura Moyo, for encouragement and guidance. “I want to express my gratitude to my brother Aaron, who encouraged me to be brave in the arts. I’m still following his advice. May he be blessed,” he said.

ManLuckerz Makandire continues to represent Zimbabwean culture on international stages, using music and community engagement to promote identity, unity, and cultural pride.