Zambian star Alifatiq to rock Katima Mulilo

Katima Mulilo can gear up for entertainment second to none when one of Zambia’s fast-rising stars, Alifatiq, backed by his exotic dancers, will headline a mini music festival at the Bezi Bar next Saturday.

Alifatiq, baptised Alifas Chasowa Banda, has gained popularity for his kalindula music, which he blends with modern elements of Afro-fusion, amapiano, R&B and rumba.

The event is staged to raise funds for Zambezi Legends Social Club, a sports team based at Katima Mulilo, according to promoter Sylvester Simabuli of Intwiza Events Management.

Said Simabuli: “We could not have opted for a better act than Alifatiq who, apart from being one of the most in-demand entertainers in Zambia, has also grabbed the imagination of music lovers in other parts of southern Africa. He is really a great talent.

“And to ensure that our own artists don’t feel left-out, local favourites such as Belle Markaso and Muta Criss, are also expected to spice up the event. They will receive a good chance to prove that they are ready to share the stage with the big boys.”

Markasso is considered one of the brightest young upcoming artists in the Zambezi region and already boasts hit songs, like ‘Booth’.

Criss also has much potential and is destined for a successful music career as long as he stays focused on his craft, says Simabuli.

Meanwhile, Alifatiq needs little introduction to the Namibian music scene or the rest of southern African region, where he enjoys superstar status.

“I have released one album titled, ‘Sound’. All my other songs that gained me so much popularity were just released as singles. One after the other.

“My music has international recognition. I staged international shows in countries like Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe,” Alifatiq said in a press release.

The highly acclaimed singer has released top hits such as ‘Nimilizeze’, ‘Teteku’ and ‘Better’ featuring Rich Bizzy.

Born in Katete, in southern Zambia, he started singing at the tender age of 10.

The 30-year-old, also renowned for his artistry on the guitar, recorded his first studio song in 2010 and opened his own studio, OverDoze Music Studio, in 2016. He soon gained popularity in his home town and eventually across Zambia.

Alifatiq, who is now residing in Mutekana in western Zambia, has built himself a reputation as one of the most sought-after producers of what is popularly known as Zambian music.