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Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
The stage is set for the annual Imiklomela kaDakamela Cultural Festival, taking place at Chief Mbusi Dakamela’s homestead in Nkayi, Matabeleland North. The festivities begin today and run until Sunday.
Now in its fourth edition, the festival, also known as the Chief Dakamela Achievers’ Awards, is expected to draw thousands of attendees from across Zimbabwe, the Southern African region, and the diaspora.
The three-day showcase will bring together traditional leaders, government officials, royals from various African kingdoms, members of the local business community, cultural enthusiasts, and the people of Nkayi.
Some guests arrived in Bulawayo yesterday ahead of the event, including a delegation from the Zulu nation under King Misuzulu kaZwelithini. The group is being led by Umntwana Thulani Zulu, the King’s official spokesperson (Somlomo). The royal delegation includes princes such as Umntwana Nkinobho Zulu, Umntwana Phumlani of the Nyonini royal house, and Umntwana Jabulani from the eZulwini royal house. They are accompanied by Izinduna Mncwango, Shandu and Mdlalose, alongside other members of the Zulu royal family and Amabutho, who are expected to participate in traditional praises.
Also in attendance are Her Royal Highness Princess Andile naBingweni Mabena and Prince Ayanda Manala Sibindi of the Manala royal family in Mpumalanga, South Africa, under the reign of His Majesty King Enock Makhosonke II Mabhena. They travelled with a delegation that includes senior Princess Agnes Nomngoma Mabhena of the Manala-Mbongo Royal House, sister to King Makhosoke II.
South African actress Dawn Thandeka King is expected to arrive in Bulawayo today. She will receive an uMklomelo (Recognition Award) for her outstanding contributions to the arts, cultural representation, and social impact through her work in film, music, and public advocacy.
Also expected today is renowned Mzansi cultural music composer and performer Mbuso Khoza, who will lead exclusive workshops on Amahubo – revered traditional Nguni songs passed down through generations.
Other royals set to be part of the festival include Prince Kwazikwenkosi Zulu, Ndlunkulu Gopolang Lebakeng Zulu, Inkosi Yase MaNcubeni Nkosi Molefe, Dr Litha, Thembisile Mahuwa, Nkosi Mbokane, Prince Wandile Ngobese, Dr Themba Fakazi, Princess Pretty Mncube, Princess Lungile Mncube, Advocate Smphiwe Xaba, and Ndumiso Ndlela, among others.
Artistes lined up to perform across various segments include Indosakusa: The Morning Star, King Lion Express Band, uMaqhuzu, Novuyo Seagirl, Black Umfolosi, Bambanani Women Ensemble, Many Faces Band, Just Leo and Simuniziva Band, Imvimbi Arts, and Gog’ Bekezela, among others.
Ceremony participants will include Ntando Van Moyo, Doctor Cindy, MaNare, Mahlalela, Mahlabayithwale, Sicelo “Sibbs” Jamela, Zisco, and Mabekwankosi kaJijiji.
One of the festival organisers, Ntando Ndlovu, said Imiklomela kaDakamela is a nationally recognised celebration of heritage, culture, and community that unites Africans from all walks of life.
Outlining the programme, Ndlovu said today will mainly focus on welcoming guests and campsite check-ins, followed by a welcome braai in the evening and a music concert that will run through the night.
“Tomorrow will be our main event. It will be characterised by a royal procession, cultural showcases, and keynote addresses. This is also the day when we’ll present the Achievers Awards. There will also be a lot of tourism activities and marketplaces.
“In the evening, guests will be treated to the Dakamela Bush Dinner premium experience, with another musical gala taking place at the main arena,” he said.
Ndlovu added that on Sunday, there will be a youth camp programme, incorporating schools’ innovation challenge presentations, youth showcases, and awards.
Of particular significance, Imiklomela kaDakamela has partnered with Highlanders Football Club on a joint presentation marking a major highlight of the club’s centenary celebrations. The collaboration creates a unique intersection of royalty, culture, and football, aimed at reconnecting the iconic club with its deep rural roots in Nkayi. Bosso will field three categories of teams in a nine-team tournament running over the three days of the festival.
Fans will have the opportunity to watch Highlanders legends such as Madinda “Khathazile” Ndlovu, Super Netsai Moyo, and Peter “Oxo” Nkomo, alongside Bosso 90 and the Highlanders Royals in action.
Ndlovu said attendees can look forward to a vibrant and immersive experience that underscores why Imiklomela kaDakamela is fast becoming a flagship cultural event and an emerging tourism destination rooted in heritage and community.
Online Reporter