By Staff Reporter
Kwekwe’s finest entertainer Isaac Kanyinji, popularly known as DJ Fonyo, is steadily carving out a name for himself in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene, drawing inspiration from local legends and grassroots beginnings.
Born and raised in Mbizo, Kwekwe, DJ Fonyo’s journey into the arts began at a young age through school talent shows. He attended Emthonjeni Primary School in Mbizo before moving to George Hill Primary in Torwood and later completing his primary education at Chiedza Government School. For his secondary education, he attended Manunure High School and Amaveni High School.
It was during these formative years that his passion for entertainment took root.
“I used to take part in talent shows at school, and that’s where everything started,” he said.
A major turning point in his life came through his early exposure to the late sungura icon Tongai Moyo. Growing up in Mbizo 12, DJ Fonyo often spent time with Tongai Moyo’s son, Peter Moyo, and witnessed firsthand the musical environment that shaped the Utakataka Express.
“I would go to their house and see them practising. That really inspired me and made me fall in love with entertainment,” he said.
His passion deepened in high school, where he became actively involved in entertainment activities, further nurturing his ambitions of entering the industry.
Over the years, DJ Fonyo credits mentorship for shaping his career path. He cites Liberty “P-rori” Tapfumaneyi as a key influence between 2008 and 2012.
“I learnt a lot from how he operated. That’s also when I met Shadreck ‘Shaddy the Mighty’ Nyirongo and we joined hands to form a movement,” he said.
Today, DJ Fonyo has established himself as a versatile entertainer and disc jockey, performing at a wide range of events including weddings, roadshows and corporate functions.
Musically, his tastes are rooted in the sounds he grew up around.
“Peter Moyo remains my favourite artist. I was raised on Utakataka and ZigZag Band, and I am also a big reggae fan,” he said.
Despite his growing profile, DJ Fonyo believes the Kwekwe arts industry still has untapped potential.
“There is a lot of talent here, but pull-down syndrome is holding the industry back. If artists supported each other more, we could grow much bigger,” he said.
Away from the spotlight, the entertainer describes himself as “happily loved,” balancing his personal life with his passion for music.
With his roots firmly grounded in Kwekwe and a growing footprint across events, DJ Fonyo is part of a wave of local entertainers pushing to elevate the city’s arts scene.
For bookings, he can be contacted on 0772600525.
