About

Born in Zimbabwe into circumstances most Americans would consider less than meager, Ngwenya seemed untouched and unscathed by the limitations built into his surroundings. While most were dreaming of simply making it to the nation’s capital Harare, Chaka was telling his mother every day that one day, he would be in New York. However, before setting foot on U.S. soil, he managed to become one of Zimbabwe’s most recognized and beloved Radio and TV personality. In a recent trip back to Zimbabwe, Chaka still had fans who shouted his name as he walked by…running up to him to hand him their music. By the year 2000, however, he felt he was being called to leave the country he loved…and, in turn, loved him dearly, to journey to a nation built on the promises he had spoken every day of his life. Stepping out to make his dream a reality, Chaka left his fame, and a little fortune, to become a youth pastor in the Salvation Army. A job that was a far cry from everything he knew, but would land him right in the middle of the American city that had always been his dream.

In Harlem, no one knew his name, no one turned on their television set to see him, or waited anxiously for his radio program. In Harlem, Chaka was not recognized as a television and radio personality. And, in his new American home, he experienced one major problem he felt the need to address and rectify…he was not being recognized as an African. He was able to see some similarities in the rich African-American history Harlem furnished, but more often than not, he found himself longing for home. Consequently in 2005, he founded SARFMRADIO.com, an American-based African web-radio station. He wanted to give a taste of home to his fellow Africans, but he also wanted Americans to hear Africa’s heart beat just a little louder. He envisioned bridging the gap that existed between Africa and America, a vision that would provide both nations with a connection as well as a greater understanding of the uniqueness and contributions each has to offer.

Since 2005 Chaka has trained almost thirty DJ’s from around the world how to do just that. He tells them everyday that, “This is not just entertainment, this is Education and Information at its best!” We want our listeners to love the music, but we also want them to be informed. Today, Chaka’s voice is well-known on Internet radio, but it’s not limited to this one communication venue only. You might also see his face when you turn on your television or visit your favorite news source. The Daily News, NY1, and even CNN have all done stories on this budding star and his growing listenership. If you Google his name you will also discover how frequently he has spoken out on behalf of his beloved Africa, in the last few years, and the changes he seeks to bring to his ailing home country. Danny Glover, Foxy Brown, Lil' Mama, Kwame Jackson, and Akon, Leon, Sheryl Lee Ralph have all spoken to him, and some have even visited his humble studio seeking to reconnect with their homeland. Chaka is the DJ whose love for what he does transcends beyond personal fulfillment. He is providing a resounding voice to many who cannot speak out. He is heard every saturday on WHCR 90.3FM every saturday between 6-8PM doing Sounds Of Africa.

"Gone are the days when Africans didn’t have a voice,” states Chaka. “We are here and we can tell our own story without any misinterpretation. It’s time for people-of-color to come together and merge our unique talents and resources. Whether born in the US, the Caribbean, or South America, we are all Africans sharing one love and one mission… equal opportunity, happiness, and prosperity for all.”