The recent broadcast of the program Fred's Show, The program, broadcast on the evening of Monday, July 22, 2025, brought to light a sensitive but increasingly present issue in the Mozambican artistic community: working conditions, mutual respect, and the appreciation of cultural professionals, especially those working far from major urban centers.
The issue concerns statements made by the singer. Ziqo, regarding an alleged refusal on the part of Google Productions an agency based in the city of Lichinga, Niassa province, in allowing the participation of its dancers. Part Stone and Amuenhe in the music video “Xipoko”, which blends urban rhythms with cultural expression. Kadoda, rooted in the north of the country.
The statement and the institutional response.
On the morning of Wednesday, July 23, Google Productions released an official statement clarifying its version of events. In the document, the production company argues that... There was no formal agreement. between the parties, since logistical and security conditions The proposals made by the artist did not guarantee the well-being of the dancers, including minors. The agency claimed that the offers made by Ziqo did not respect its... professional and ethical principles, mentioning the absence of Airfare, fair compensation, and minimum guarantees of dignity..
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The public response, written in a firm but measured tone, avoids personal attacks and reinforces Google Productions' role as an agent of responsible talent promotion from the northern region, highlighting the challenges faced by young artists outside the major national stages.
Topics for discussion and reflection
The situation described sheds light on a number of issues relevant to the present and future of the Mozambican cultural sector:
- Cultural centralization and unequal logisticsThe distance between provinces like Niassa and centers like Maputo poses considerable logistical and financial challenges for those who want to integrate regional artists into national projects.
- Professional development for local dancers and artists.Many talented young people, especially those outside major cities, face job offers that do not guarantee decent working conditions. The question that arises is: to what extent can or should "love of culture" justify the absence of financial compensation?
- Formalizing artistic partnershipsThis case reinforces the importance of formal contracts and clear agreements, avoiding misunderstandings and public accusations that affect the image of both parties involved.
- Relationship between established artists and local producersWhat should be the role of nationally recognized artists in the inclusion and empowerment of young producers and dancers from underrepresented regions? Is there room for a more collaborative and less hierarchical model?
- Kadoda as a cultural identityThe statement reinforces that Kadoda is a scene, ...and that the culture of Niassa should be recognized and valued. without appropriations or distortions. This raises the debate about the authentic representation of Mozambican cultural expressions in the media.
An opportunity for collective growth.
The episode, although tense, can serve as starting point for a deeper dialogue about professionalization of the cultural sector In Mozambique, as styles like pandza, kadoda, and other fusions gain traction on radio and digital platforms, it is essential that respect, dignity, and ethics accompany this growth.
Google Productions ended the statement on a positive note, congratulating Ziqo on the quality of the music video and acknowledging the role of other dancers from Niassa in the project. The final message was clear: “Being from Niassa doesn’t mean being foolish. We know our worth and our dignity.”
Perhaps this is, above all, a wake-up call for the country to recognize its entire territory as a stage, and all its artists as protagonists.
