Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE stage is set for the Moto Moto Festival, which will be held this Saturday, at the Odonien in Cologne, Germany.
In its second edition, Moto Moto is a festival amplifying voices from Zimbabwe and across the diaspora. It’s being held under the theme “Afro. Culture. Future.”
This year’s lineup is a deliberate curation of Zimbabwe’s most dynamic talent, spanning traditional, contemporary, and diasporic sounds.
Headlining the festival is internationally acclaimed band Mokoomba, whose fusion of Afro-grooves, Zimrock, and Congolese rhythms has electrified stages worldwide. Joining them is Feli Nandi, one of Zimbabwe’s leading Afro-fusion voices, and Awa Khiwe, the Germany-based hip-hop powerhouse known for her fierce lyricism and feminist energy.
Adding fire to the stage is Nisha Ts, Zimbabwe’s breakout dancehall artist of the year, making her European debut thanks to support from the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and National Arts Merit Awards (Nama). She’ll be joined by Mary Anibal, whose mbira-driven music brings ancient traditions into the present, and Harare-based DJ Blaze, a genre-bending crowd favorite.
The festival also highlights Zimbabwean diaspora talent, including Munashe Lorraine, a Cologne-based Afro-fusion singer writing in English, Shona, and German; rising UK stars Jah Hanief and Lil Jam; and local emerging acts Solah and Keith.
One of the festival founders Plot Mhako said preparations are going well on course.
“The theme speaks to our deep belief in the power of African creativity to shape global narratives. It’s about reclaiming identity, celebrating our cultural richness, and projecting a bold, optimistic vision of where African expression is headed.
“Moto Moto is not just about the music. It’s about identity, education, and community. This year we introduce a Kids Zone, a fun yet culturally rooted space designed to engage young minds through music, dance, and storytelling. Children are the carriers of culture. says Plot Mhako. By creating space for them now, we’re investing in the future of our creative legacy,” said Mhako.
From its Zimbabwean roots to its Cologne base, Moto Moto Festival is a bridge—connecting continents, generations, and genres. Whether you’re there to dance, discover, or simply belong, one thing is certain: Moto Moto is Africa’s future—now.
