Veteran Playwright Aaron Chiundura-Moyo Calls for the Revival of Radio Dramas

Renowned playwright, novelist, and scriptwriter Aaron Chiundura-Moyo, a trailblazer in Zimbabwean literature and broadcasting, has urged national broadcasters to revive the once-thriving art of radio dramas. Speaking in an interview with The Herald Arts, Chiundura-Moyo lamented the disappearance of radio dramas, which he views as vital platforms for nurturing creativity, educating communities, and preserving Zimbabwe’s storytelling traditions.

A Legacy Built on Radio Dramas

Chiundura-Moyo, who built a celebrated career at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), credits radio dramas for launching his creative journey. “I worked at ZBC for years, and I came as a nobody, but my potential was realised when I expressed my interest in radio dramas,” he shared. During his tenure, Chiundura-Moyo penned numerous iconic dramas, including Kudzidza Hakuperi and Regai Dzive Shiri, which became household favorites for their compelling storytelling and celebration of local talent.

In their prime, stations like Radio 4 (now National FM) and Radio 2 (now Radio Zimbabwe) provided platforms for budding writers to showcase their work and connect with audiences. “New writers had a platform to express themselves, but it’s sad that we no longer have such programmes,” Chiundura-Moyo lamented, emphasizing the missed opportunities for creative development and cultural education.

A Call to Embrace Modern Technology

Chiundura-Moyo believes that the advancement of technology could play a significant role in reviving radio dramas. Despite the dominance of digital media, radio remains a trusted and widely accessible medium for many Zimbabweans. “We are now in an era where technology has made life easier; I think we could be somewhere else as far as promoting radio dramas is concerned,” he noted, highlighting the potential for modern tools to enhance production quality and reach broader audiences.

Empowering the Next Generation

At 70, Chiundura-Moyo remains deeply committed to passing on his wealth of experience to aspiring storytellers. “As elders in this industry, it would be insane if we die and do not pass the baton to the next generation,” he said. The playwright advocates for initiatives like drama clubs, mentorship programs, and creative workshops to ensure young talent has the guidance and platforms needed to thrive.

Chiundura-Moyo also sees radio dramas as powerful vehicles for addressing societal issues while entertaining and educating listeners. From raising awareness about social challenges to inspiring dialogue within communities, these programs have the potential to make a lasting impact.

Preserving Zimbabwe’s Cultural Heritage

Chiundura-Moyo’s illustrious career, which includes creating Zimbabwe’s first soap opera, Studio 263, underscores his belief in the transformative power of storytelling. His call for the return of radio dramas is not merely a nostalgic plea but a vision for safeguarding Zimbabwe’s cultural identity and fostering creativity through accessible platforms.

For Chiundura-Moyo, reviving radio dramas is about more than entertainment—it’s about empowering communities, educating future generations, and ensuring the arts remain an enduring pillar of Zimbabwean culture. His vision serves as a reminder of the crucial role storytelling plays in shaping society and inspiring change.