THE gods have finally smiled on comic dancer Apama (real name David Machowa) after he signed a $60 000 deal with law firm Allied Legal Aid on Saturday.
Entertainment Reporter
Signed at a low key function held at Machokoto Nite Club in Glen View 1, the deal will see the dancer assuming an ambassadorial role for the company.
Among some of his perks would be a Nissan Elgrand for his group, a Honda Fit car for his personal use and a $5 000 monthly allowance.
In return, the dancer is obliged to market the law firm’s services to the general public, the majority of whom were denied legal advice due to exorbitant legal fees beyond the reach of many.
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Speaking at the event, Dancers’ Association of Zimbabwe (Daz) public relations manager Justice Chinhema hailed the law firm for its move and assured them a smooth relationship with Daz through Apama.
“I am happy that as Daz, our efforts are bearing fruit because before we formed this association there was no hope such deals would materialise,” Chinhema said. “It is my sincere hope that Allied Legal Aid’s gesture will show the corporate world how much the arts sector has grown so that they too can benefit while rewarding our hardworking artistes.”
Allied Legal Aid managing director Norman Mandeya said he was ecstatic about their engagement of Apama.
“Apama, like many other artistes travels a lot across the country and having him as a brand ambassador will help us with visibility in all corners of the country,” Mandeya said.
“His duty will be to represent us wherever he performs as well as conscientise the people about the need for legal aid.
“Also since our organisation has been in existence before this deal, you will find there are some clients that may need to be consistently engaged and Apama will come in handy.”
Apama has come a long way in the trade having started off at the turn of the millennium.
He has continuously put up efforts for his growth but misfortunes have in some instances riddled his efforts.
Two years ago he was involved in a horrific accident in Mozambique which claimed two of his dancers ahead of what was supposed to be his first foreign tour.
He later failed to tour Mexico due to lack of finances and has since performed only once at the Sauti Za Busara Festival in Tanzania.
Apama told NewsDay he was elated with the deal.
“We have been working hard to get such deals and I am happy now that this has come to fruition,” Apama said.
“I would like to thank my team that has stood with me through all the trouble that has finally been rewarded today.”