Musician Bhila Appointed Haswell Ready Mix Concrete and Bricks Brand Ambassador

By Kudakwashe Takundwa

Bulawayo-based Afro-pop musician Bhila has been appointed brand ambassador for Haswell Ready Mix Concrete & Bricks, a Bulawayo company specialising in paving and brick products.

Established in 2018 and operating from Kelvin West, Haswell Ready Mix Concrete & Bricks says the partnership is part of its commitment to supporting local talent while growing its brand footprint.

Speaking on the appointment, the company’s managing director Mbonisi Mguni, said Bhila was selected because of his broad appeal across different generations.

“We identified Bhila because his music is loved by both the young and the old. His music is diverse, and he is able to connect with different generations. As a way of growing our product, we decided to grow together with him,” he said.

Mguni added that supporting local artists was important for the development of both the creative sector and the business community.

“It is important for us as a company to support local talent. We are holding hands to assist each other. Most artistes do not have sponsors, and we want to help them grow and achieve their dreams while they also help us increase our brand visibility,” Mguni said.

Beyond business, Haswell is also investing in community development initiatives. The company recently established a vocational training institution in Nkulumane, a project launched in June last year with the aim of equipping community members with practical skills.

Expressing gratitude for the endorsement, Bhila said the partnership was a sign that his work was making an impact in the community.

“It means a lot to be working with Haswell because it shows that my work as a musician is being recognised and is adding value to the community. When the company grows, I also grow. I urge more companies to partner with artists in the creative sector as this helps us develop while exposing brands to our followers,” said Bhila.

Born Patriarch W.J. Manyabi, Bhila, is one of Bulawayo’s fast-rising Afro-pop musicians known for his storytelling approach to music.

The award-winning artiste has built a loyal following through songs such as Emaweni, Wamuhle, and GP, earning recognition for blending traditional African sounds with contemporary music styles.

In 2025, he won the Bulawayo Arts Award for Outstanding Alternative Music, cementing his status as one of the city’s emerging musical voices.