VICTORIA FALLS Renowned award winning Zimbabwean actress singer and performer Qeqeshiwe “Qeqe” Mntambo has officially declared the start of a bold new chapter in her artistic career marked by a dynamic musical rebrand live tour dates and the upcoming release of her debut EP

By Trevor Mawaka

Speaking to Earground Reporter Trevor Mawaka the versatile artist opened up about the personal and professional drive behind her evolved direction describing it as a decisive turning point in her journey through a challenging industry.

“I have said for years that I want to rebrand” Mntambo shared “As a woman in a male dominated industry I have had to do everything on my own It has not been easy There were times I doubted myself but I never stopped This rebrand is me drawing a line It is me saying I am here I am serious and I am pushing forward”

For Mntambo a two time National Arts Merit Awards NAMA winner known for her roles in iconic productions such as Stitsha Suku and Soulmate this musical evolution represents both an expansion of her artistic horizons and a return to her roots She explained that the move is aimed at building broader creative connections while staying true to the sounds that define her identity.

“For me rebranding is about rediscovering myself as an artist I am exploring new yet familiar sounds music that still feels like home but also opens doors for collaborations and partnerships” she noted “I want to grow to work with other creatives and to take Zimbabwean music to bigger spaces”

A significant catalyst for this transition has been her relocation to Victoria Falls where she was formerly an actor in the acclaimed cultural production Simunye The Spirit of Africa Mntambo noted that the resort towns creative environment and receptive audience provided the ideal backdrop for her renewed confidence

“Since relocating to Victoria Falls I have felt a shift The love and recognition I have received here has given me confidence” she said “People are listening People are watching And I think it is time to make real moves and put myself out there fully”

Fans will soon get a first listen of this sound on stage before the official studio release as Mntambo prepares for a series of live showcases to engage directly with audiences

“I have shows lined up over the coming months where I will be testing this new sound live with my audience” she revealed “It is important for me to connect directly and see how the music lands”

The live performances will pave the way for her most ambitious recording milestone to date her debut EP.

“I am also working on something I have never done before my first EP It is a project that has been in my heart for years Releasing it feels like the next natural step in this new chapter” Mntambo said

Beyond her artistic ambition Mntambo highlighted motherhood as a fundamental pillar of strength that anchors her resilience and work ethic as an independent artist in Zimbabwes creative sector

“Being a mother has also shaped this journey It gave me zeal focus and the discipline to keep going even when things got hard” she reflected “This rebrand is for me but it is also for every woman who has been told to wait to be quiet or to give up”