Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
IT’S all systems go for the launch of this year’s Culture Month, set to take place today at the Rusununguko Clinic open space in Chiredzi, under the jurisdiction of Chief Tshovani. This high-profile cultural gathering, which promises to be a spectacle of colour, tradition and celebration, will be officially launched by President Mnangagwa.
Following months of meticulous planning, today’s programme will begin at 9am, with formal proceedings running through to 3pm. The day will feature a series of official speeches, artistic performances and exhibitions.
Festivities will commence with a tour of legacy projects that showcase Zimbabwe’s cultural journey and heritage, offering the President and other dignitaries an overview of initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting local culture.
Following the tour, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, will formally welcome guests — playing a key role in co-ordinating the regional aspect of the celebration.
The Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Lieutenant General (Retired) Anselem Sanyatwe, is expected to deliver his remarks before officially inviting President Mnangagwa, to deliver the keynote address and formally launch Culture Month 2025.
Thousands of attendees from across the country are expected to converge in Chiredzi for this grand cultural occasion.
According to NACZ Communications and Public Relations Manager, Agga Nyabinde, preparations are complete.
“We’re more than ready for the event, and everything is now in place for the big day. All our exhibitors have mounted their stalls, and the entire organising team is geared to host one of the biggest cultural events of the year,” he said.
He encouraged the public to attend in large numbers, emphasising that the launch is a free event, open to all — underscoring the Government’s commitment to inclusive participation and cultural preservation.
Once the formalities conclude, attention will shift to the musical gala, promising a thrilling showcase of Zimbabwe’s rich music and dance traditions. A mix of celebrated and emerging talents will take to the stage, offering audiences a memorable cultural experience.
Headlining the gala are popular artistes, Mark Ngwazi, Freeman, and Sandra Ndebele. Adding regional flair are Khaya Arts and Elysium Magama from Bulawayo. Other performers include Joseph Chauke (backed by the Amarula Band), Chebvute Jukwa Dance Group, Timothy Gokova and Mabhanan’ana Express, DJ Mnisi and Sisters, Blessed Music Generation, Tecla Mamoyo, Elizabeth Bernard and a choral performance by Masvingo Teachers College.
This rich line-up ensures not only entertainment but also cultural education, offering attendees the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the country’s diverse heritage.
Running under the theme “Celebrating Indigenous Voices”, Culture Month seeks to honour, preserve and promote Zimbabwe’s linguistic and cultural diversity, while encouraging self-expression through a wide range of artistic forms. The event is spearheaded by the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe.
Culture Month celebrations will not end in Chiredzi. Following the national launch, focus will shift to the “Indigenous Languages and Cultural Dialogue Week”, scheduled for the fourth week of the month.
In addition, all 10 provinces will host their own provincial launches, led by their respective Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, ensuring the celebration reaches every corner of the nation. These regional events will serve as platforms for local artistes to shine and promote grassroots cultural initiatives.
Chiredzi’s hosting of this prestigious event is being hailed as a historic milestone for the district, home to diverse ethnic communities including the Shangani and Venda, who have long preserved their cultural identity.
This event offers the community a long-awaited opportunity to showcase their unique customs, traditional attire, languages and artistic expressions.
