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The 2000s are know for some dark things, such as being trillionaires, that salt shortage (Zimbabwe has been a lot guys) and wild politics.
But there were things which slapped hard, and still invoke fond memmories for many.
We share our seven.
1. Power FM’s “Urban Grooves” takeover
The 2000s saw the rise of Urban Grooves – think Roki, Tererai, Alexio Kawara, ExQ, and David Chifunyise. Power FM was the station, and every teen had lyrics memorised from to “Tisu Tega”. Of course, MafriQ, we remember you.
2. “Studio 263” on ZBC
Before streaming, we had Studio 263, Zimbabwe’s first real local soap drama. Everyone was glued to the TV every week – Tendai, Mai Huni, Thembi – the drama was peak entertainment.
3. SMS shoutouts on TV & Radio
Before WhatsApp and Twitter, sending an SMS shoutout to ZTV or Power FM was the ultimate flex. You’d wait to hear your name or message read out live — “Shoutout to Tawanda in Kuwadzana from Chido in Budiriro!”
4. Nokia 3310 & monochrome phones
Everyone had a Nokia 3310 or 1100 – or knew someone who did. You could play Snake, compose your own ringtones, and change those colourful covers from Avondale flea market. Charging it once a week? Magic.
5. Sungura music dominance and rivalries
It was a time heavily influenced by Sungura music. Think of Alick Macheso and Tongai Moyo at the peak of their rivalry, dominating airwaves and live shows. Their music, with its distinct basslines and dance choreographies like ‘Borrowdale’ and ‘Razor Wire’, was the soundtrack to many Zimbabwean lives. Even today, these artists evoke strong feelings of nostalgia
6. CD-Man & street DVD hustlers
Every kombi rank had a CD-man yelling, “Action movies, Nigeria, Zim music!” They’d burn everything from Tyler Perry bootlegs to Zim dancehall mixes. You could even request a custom playlist – for US$1.
7. Makanaka Wakatama & child TV stars
Before social media fame, Makanaka Wakatama was Zimbabwe’s child sweetheart – dancing, singing, and presenting on TV. We also had Kidznet, Look & Learn, and Junior Parliament as prime time kiddie content.
Of course, that is not the full list. If you would like to add more, do so on our socials below:
- X (formerly Twitter) | @ThreeMenOnaBoat
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- On BlueSky | https://bsky.app/profile/3mob.bsky.social
- We have a WhatsApp Channel | https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaE9gCp9xVJlEgRF2u40
- And we have a Book Club | Just click here to join
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