Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A powerful blend of seasoned and emerging talent will take centre stage at Kujeke Growth Point in Mashonaland East on August 12, as the nation gathers for the 2025 Heroes Day Gala — a musical tribute to Zimbabwe’s fallen and living liberation heroes.
Organised as part of the commemorations to honour those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom, the event will feature music, poetry and dance, drawing revellers from across the province and beyond.
Top acts set to perform include Andy Muridzo, Mark Ngwazi, Chief Hwenje, Mathias Mhere, Shantel Sithole, Sasha Madhuve, Jah Master, Clement Magwaza, Jeys Marabini, Mechanic Manyeruke, Enzo Ishall, Simon Mutambi, the ZPCS Band, Tendai Dembo, Mr Gray, Mainato and Ndunge Yut.
In keeping with the tradition of promoting local talent, several Mashonaland East-based artistes will also grace the stage. These include Jungle Fox, Josephat Somanje, Kadiki and Van Chichi, Del Roy and Mutokwe and Sons.
Hosting duties will be carried out by a dynamic team of presenters: Tatenda Chinoda, Kanyemba Bhonzo, Lucy Ngosolo, Edias “Mafight” Sibanda, and Thabani Gambiza.
Veteran jazz musician Jeys Marabini, a regular feature at national events, expressed his gratitude for being invited to perform once again.
“The National Heroes’ Day celebrations are important to all of us as Zimbabweans because we are free today, thanks to our fathers and mothers who sacrificed their lives during the liberation struggle. I feel honoured to contribute through my gift of music. We must remember and celebrate both the fallen and the living heroes who made our freedom possible,” said Marabini.
Principal Information Officer in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Lennex Mandipaza, confirmed that preparations for the highly anticipated gala are progressing smoothly.
“Planning began well in advance. The list of performers is out and everything is on track. Music played a vital role during the liberation struggle, and we hope the performances will rekindle that spirit as we reflect on the sacrifices made for this country,” said Mandipaza.
He added that the Second Republic’s commitment to inclusivity — “leaving no one and no place behind” — has seen national events held in rural and underserved communities to promote unity and belonging.
Previous galas have been hosted in remote areas such as Murambinda Growth Point (Buhera), Mt Darwin, Dotito Growth Point, Nyika Growth Point (Bikita) and Nembudziya in Gokwe, setting a precedent that Kujeke Growth Point now follows.
