Online Reporter
Trust Khosa recently in MHONDORO
MAGICAL AND UNPARALLELED!
These words aptly sum up the just-ended 2026 Heroes Gala, held at Chemhanza Grounds in the heart of Mubaira Growth Point.
Mhondoro, Mashonaland West
The event, which celebrated both living and late icons across various disciplines, culminated in a huge celebration of arts and cultural heritage through music, dance and style.
A star-studded programme that will remain engraved in the minds of many who attended, also delivered refreshingly inspiring talking points.
Young Turks’ Delight
As we correctly predicted, the new generation of stars is taking over. Organisers honoured some of the brightest young talents with prime slots at the event.
The brightest star of the night was Atenda Chinx, daughter of the late liberation hero Cde Dickson Chingaira.
She left fans in awe by playing both her late father’s compositions and her own tracks. It, therefore, came as no surprise when she was called back on stage after her performance. “She is in a league of her own,” a fan in the VIP section said.
“Cde Chinx should be happy wherever he is. His legacy is in safe hands. This girl is a star—we need to support her.”
A gifted composer, Atenda still has youth on her side as she turns 21 in November. Despite her age, she is way beyond her generation when it comes to stage presentation, communication and choreography.
Another youngster who had a good day in office was Jah Signal.
He exuded confidence through an energy-sapping performance. Like Atenda, he was also called back on stage after his act, and he simply did what fans wanted—played one more song.
Mash West Acts Shine
As has become the norm, organisers—the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services—reward artists from across the provinces.
Seasoned and emerging stars were given slots as State functions were decentralised in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and place behind, promoting inclusivity.
Local groups that performed included Jonathan Siyasitimuzira, better known as Mr Gina or Mr Chinhoyi. The talented sungura musician was rewarded for consistency. He delivered a flawless act that reminded many that he is no longer a rising artist, but a star. With a bit more luck, he could have achieved even more.
Another group that performed was the Mbira Dzasamaita ensemble, a family affair featuring young blood alongside mature voices. Jiti Outfit, Mhondoro Music Group, also took the stage.
The star of the night from Mashonaland West was Romeo Gasa
He was undoubtedly among the best dressed musicians of the night, donning matching all-white outfits, while four of his ladies wore black-and-white combinations.
“I last performed here in 2020 and it was an epic night to be honoured,” he told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub shortly after his act.
“As for this dressing which turned heads, it should not be taken as a surprise. Artists should be presentable because art is business—and also a job that should not be taken lightly. Sungura musicians need to dress properly, something we are championing.”
Moyo, Murudzwa’s Worship Experience
This 2026 Heroes Gala would have been incomplete without mentioning the exploits of gospel divas Agartha Murudzwa and Dorcas Moyo.
The first to appear was Murudzwa, who almost turned her segment into a church service, leaving some yearning for paradise. Her worship was deep and it proved why she is a spouse of a clergyman.
Moyo, who also hails from Mutare, was on fine form from start to finish. Her dancers livened the night as they blended gospel with sungura, reggae and fast dance routines.
Speaking to the publication shortly after her performance, she said:
“It just happens naturally with me. I don’t even know where I get all this energy.
“I think God knows better because I will be in another different world once I step onto the stage.”
Matabeleland Affair
The region was also well represented through Clement Magwaza, who brought his artistic verve to the occasion. Known for his Tshibilika artistry, Magwaza was in his usual best.
With a blend of mature women, teenagers and aged men in his performance, Magwaza stood out as one of the standout performers from the region. Also performing were rapper Mzoe 7 and Manine.
Madzibaba Zakaria Conundrum
Another major talking point of the night was sparked by Lazarus Zakaria, nephew of the late Nicholas Zakaria.
Despite receiving a ‘cease-and-desist’ letter from Madzibaba’s widow, Margaret Gweshe, instructing him to stop performing her late husband’s songs, he remained defiant.
He performed Madzibaba’s songs at the gala, and it remains to be seen how the saga will end. Even with technical glitches when he opened, he still delivered a correct and memorable performance. He was supported by a group largely composed of former Khiama Boys “rebels” including Nasho Azatti.
Experience
Revolutionary singer Admire “Chief Hwenje” Shumba, who hardly misses national events, demonstrated versatility and evolution. He performed several love songs, reminding audiences that he is not limited to jingles.
“I am a versatile artist who can sing anything you might think of—from gospel, sungura and Afrofusion, among other genres,” he said.
“This gala was special to us.”
Another artist of the night who delivered a polished performance was Peter “Young Igwe” Moyo, who reminded many of his late father, Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo, a former champion performer at State functions.
Tonga musician Bio Mudimba (real name Day Time Ncube) also made a mark with sing-along tracks, especially “Kujatajata” which became his biggest breakthrough back in the day.
Baba Harare Magic
Jiti exponent Braveman “Baba Harare” Chizvino, who is immensely talented, added variety at the gala. Fans also liked both his old and new songs, and his wardrobe upgrades drew attention.
Mutambi’s Closing Night
The icing on the cake was delivered by Simon Mutambi, the closing act of the night. He proved he had a deserving final performance and a good day at the office.
Decency
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Deputy Minister Dr Omphile Marupi was among the top government officials who brought dignity to the event. He was also the guest of honour.
Local traditional leaders graced the occasion alongside legislator Chamu Chiwanza.
The night was made even more special by maximum security.
Sungura Gamechanger
Mark Ngwazi also had a good day in office. Like Mudimba and many others, he played sing-along tracks and, at intervals, started choruses that led fans to sing large chunks of his songs.
Last year’s Heroes Gala was held in Hwedza and this time Mubaira Growth Point successfully hosted it.
It was a fitting musical celebration to accompany the nation’s tribute to its heroes.
Decentralisation of national events has been widely welcomed as a triumph—giving communities outside major cities a chance to participate in, and enjoy, national celebrations. 2026 Heroes Gala exceeds expectations.
