Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
Zimbabwe’s fast-rising Afro-fusion star Agga Nyabinde has struck gold after being officially selected to perform at the prestigious Music Imbizo 2026 set for Durban, South Africa, from August 26 to 29.
Nyabinde will join artists from other African countries who include, Hloniphani Art, Abiana (Ghana), Banda Kakana (Mozambique), Epixode (Ghana), Jesse Ibidun & The Tribe (Nigeria), Linda Gcwensa, Mthuthu, Thee Legacy, UmzuluPhaqa, Vincent Mtetwa Trio, SIIBU, Dusse Wavy, Francis Soal, Deslynn Malotana, Boskasie, iYA (eSwatini), Merna Nicholls, Göksel Yılmaz Ensemble (Netherlands), ¡AC! (Kenya), Stanley Sibande (Zambia), Oriiginelle (eSwatini), Lioness (Namibia), and Aliddeki Brian (Uganda). In what is being hailed as a massive breakthrough, Nyabinde will fly the Zimbabwean flag high as the only local artist curated for this year’s explosive continental showcase — a development that has sent waves of excitement across the local arts scene.
The Music Imbizo is renowned for bringing together some of the finest musical talents from Africa and beyond, and Nyabinde’s inclusion signals a growing recognition of Zimbabwe’s sound on the global stage.
Speaking exclusively, a clearly elated, Nyabinde described the opportunity as a defining moment in his career.“This is a huge milestone for me,” he said. “I really appreciate the organisers for trusting me with this responsibility. It’s not just about me, it’s about Zimbabwean music being recognised beyond our borders.”
The artist, known for his rich fusion of traditional Zimbabwean rhythms and Afro-jazz elements, said he is fully aware of the weight on his shoulders.“It means our music is making an impact internationally, and this is an opportunity to show the world what Zimbabweans can do in terms of arts and culture,” he said. “I want to represent my country well and make sure our flag flies high.”Nyabinde’s selection comes at a time when Zimbabwean creatives are increasingly making their mark on international platforms, and industry players believe his participation could open more doors for local talent.
But the singer is not stopping there.
Riding on the momentum of this major announcement, Nyabinde revealed he is currently working on a brand-new album, expected to drop later this year.
“I am working on an album right now,” he shared. “So far we have tracks like Makaita Henyu (Thank You Very Much), which features Dhyaan Kumar, an award-winning actor, model and singer. It’s a special project that reflects growth and gratitude.”Fans can expect a sound that stays true to his roots while pushing creative boundaries.
“Our presentation is a mixture of exotic Zimbabwean traditional beats and Afro-jazz,” he explained. “I want to create a sound that can stand on the global stage and be recognised instantly.”
For Nyabinde, Music Imbizo is more than just another performance slot — it’s a platform to market Zimbabwe as a cultural powerhouse.
“My wish is to give our sound a permanent place in the world music market,” he said. “I want a situation where a simple tune reminds people about the beauty of our country.”
He added that storytelling will be at the heart of his performance.“Each song will tell a Zimbabwean story — our culture, our people, our experiences. That’s what I want to take to the world.”
As anticipation builds ahead of the Durban showcase, one thing is clear — Agga Nyabinde is ready to seize the moment and shine on one of Africa’s biggest music stages.
With passion, pride, and purpose driving him, the Afro-fusion star is not just performing — he is carrying a nation’s sound into the global spotlight.
