Makhadzi, the South African singer who has become a music icon in southern Africa, demonstrates with her own trajectory that it is possible to make a living exclusively from music and achieve a lifestyle that many consider a dream. Recently, the artist has been flaunting moments of luxury, including private flights, highlighting how music can be a powerful tool for personal and professional transformation.
Although Makhadzi operates in a more developed market, the reality she presents raises a crucial question for Mozambique: how long will the country wait to see its music industry become sustainable?
The Potential of Music in Mozambique
Mozambique boasts a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Artists like Justino Ubakka, Laylizzy, and others have already demonstrated the country's abundance of talent and creativity. However, the lack of a solid infrastructure in the music industry prevents artists from achieving the same level of recognition and financial independence seen in markets like South Africa.
Among the challenges faced by Mozambican musicians are:
1. Lack of investment: Few sponsors and partners support the local industry.
2. Weak regulation: The lack of effective copyright protection policies harms artists’ earnings.
3. Limited market: Despite the growth of digital music, the penetration of streaming platforms is still low.
What Can We Learn from Makhadzi?
Makhadzi is proof that consistency, smart marketing, and institutional support can lead to extraordinary results. The artist uses strategies such as digital promotion, partnerships with major brands, and international shows to consolidate her career.
In Mozambique, initiatives such as the National Music Festival and investment in digital platforms can serve as springboards for transforming music into an economically viable sector.
The Future of Mozambican Music
The success of South African artists should be an inspiration, but also a wake-up call for Mozambique. The country has the capacity to create a self-sustaining music industry, where artists can thrive without relying on other markets. To achieve this, it will be necessary to:
Makhadzi has shown that it's possible to transform talent into success and luxury. The question for Mozambique is: when will we see our artists soaring—literally and figuratively—in the music world?
