Swedish based cultural ambassador Luckson Makandire Chikutu better known as Manlukerz in the world of entertainment has added another feather on his glittering career by scooping the prestigious award from Al-TV network Sweden for his role in promoting African culture.
The award comes at a time that the maverick singer is celebrating twenty years in Sweden.
Botswana’s ambassador to Sweden Lameck Nthekela handed him over the award while James Davis was doing photography of the day.
“The award is in recognition of continuous promotion of African culture,” said Manlukerz from his base in Sweden.
The musician cum writer said he was humbled yet ecstatic about the recognition.
Manlukerz holding his award: PIC BY JAMES DAVISJSMED
“I thought my fellow African people were not seeing how l was fighting to bring Africa’s traditional image in map. People have shown me that they are also following, and they are with me, they do support and appreciate my potential work and image l am sharing outside the continent.
“I am feeling proud of being African but specific Zimbabwean. I will never run away from my false cheap skin. I am a Zimbabwean to be specific and l will never change my identity. My wish is to see Africa focusing and save a big budget for cultural promotion activities. We must not lose focus, determination, dedication and discipline towards our cultural promotion.
“Am prepared to share what l know from Africa, Zimbabwe. My special thanks to AI-Tv Network Sweden, African Embassies including The Botswana Ambassador who have submitted the Award to me,” he said.
Due to his studies in music business. Manluckerz have evolved from just being a musician to
a Cultural Coordinator, Inter-Music Producer, Marketing Consultant, Artistic Director, Inter-Music Promoter, Inter-Artistic Advisory, Youths Coaching, Concept Development Event Management, Actor, Story Teller, Tourism and Cultural Author.
The singer who is celebrating 18 years in marriage is also the author of a cultural book called Flashback Identity.
“I managed to achieve my goals through focusing, determination, discipline and dedication. It is very important to plan in whatever you intend to do in life,” is Manluckerz’ advice to upcoming musicians.
He also reiterated the need for government to prioritize arts and culture.
Zimbabwe should put a budget for culture if the government is serious about promoting our tourism in other countries. Culture should have a budget. I created ZIMFEBI to promote Zimbabwe culture and tourism but when I got involved in an accident, the idea fizzled with me,” he said.
Chikutu is the man behind the annual Zimbabwe Music Festival Bira (ZIMFEB) was involved an accident that claimed two lives in 2015. He was in Zimbabwe for the festival.
Zimfeb was formed in April 2007.
“The festival’s objective is to bring people together through celebrating cultures from different parts of the world. We also aim to promote awareness through music,” he said.
