Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
FOR years, Harare International Festival of the Arts set the gold standard for Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar — renowned for its discipline, punctuality and spectacle.
With its absence, many wondered if the void could ever be filled. Now, all eyes are on the Jacaranda Music Festival, which has steadily grown into a polished, professional and world-class event that fans say carries the same magic HIFA once had.
Founder Walter Wanyanya, however, said that the festival is not about competition, but about legacy.
“Our secret is discipline and respect for the audience and the artistes. We believe people’s time and money must be respected.
“So, we run a tight ship, rehearsals, schedules, sound checks — everything is managed with precision. It’s not about competing with HIFA, it’s about carrying the baton of Zimbabwean festivals with professionalism and excellence,” he said.
The festival has become known for its curation and intentionality. Unlike a concert where one big name dominates, Jacaranda Music Festival thrives on balance.
“We take a very intentional approach. Jacaranda has always been about diversity and balance — mixing Zimbabwe’s finest talent with regional heavyweights and international guests. We look at relevance, musical quality and the energy artistes bring to the stage.
“The line-up is curated so every act matters, not just a headliner. That way the audience experiences a musical journey of discovery,” he said.
Wanyanya said the festival has transformed into one of Zimbabwe’s cultural flagships.
“Of course, challenges exist — from funding to logistics in our economy — but strong partnerships with corporates, cultural organisations, and our audience keep us moving forward. Every year we learn, improve and raise the bar.”
This year’s edition takes that growth even further, it started yesterday with a business conference which will run until today, while the music festival is scheduled for Saturday to Sunday. A strategic partnership with BET signals Jacaranda’s ambition to cement its continental reach.
Wanyanya says this collaboration will help amplify Zimbabwean culture beyond its borders.
“This will be very good for us because we will be able to reach a wider audience on the continent. We have already seen so many people travelling to Zimbabwe for the festival which led us to partner with three hotels.”
While the venue remains Thorn Park Polo Grounds, the choice was not accidental.
“This is our second year at Thorn Park Polo Grounds. When we moved two years ago it was based on improving the overall festival experience,” he said.
“We wanted a space that had better conveniences, a space that allows us to build multiple zones and create better comfort for attendees. Every change is made with the audience in mind.”
The entertainment flow will be guided by MCs DJ Mox and Tatenda G, chosen for their charisma and cultural connection.
But the Jacaranda Music Festival is not just about music. Another jewel in Jacaranda’s crown is the Music Business Conference, which has been grooming artists, managers, and creatives to thrive beyond Zimbabwe. Wanyanya beams with pride at how the workshops have grown into a credible institution.
“They’ve become a platform where artistes, managers, and creatives share knowledge, build networks, and grow skills. It’s about strengthening the entire arts ecosystem in Zimbabwe and giving artists the tools to thrive beyond our borders.”
This year’s line-up includes Enzo Ishall, Masa Caroleen, Kyla Blac, Melyssa, Mafikizolo, Murumba Pitch, Agga Nyabinde, ExQ and Vusi Nova, among others.C
