Online Reporter
Nodumo Moyo [email protected]
MULTI-AWARD-WINNING imbube ensemble Amaqaqa is set to take its distinctive cultural sound to the 2026 Good Seed and Food Festival in Harare on September 19, as the celebrated group continues to expand its footprint on the national stage.
The festival, which celebrates Zimbabwean heritage through music, food, agriculture and community engagement, is expected to provide the perfect setting for Amaqaqa to showcase the cultural traditions and values that have long influenced its music.
Amaqaqa director Khulekani “Khabo” Sibanda said the group was drawn to the festival because of its strong focus on preserving and celebrating Zimbabwe’s cultural and agricultural identity.
“What drew us to the Good Seed and Food Festival is its heart. This is not just another event. It’s a gathering that celebrates the seed, our food, our land, our people and the culture that grows from it,” he said.
Sibanda said Amaqaqa’s music naturally complements the festival’s theme, describing the ensemble’s sound as a celebration of heritage, language, faith and the stories that connect communities across generations.
He said festival-goers can look forward to an energetic and engaging performance featuring the group’s trademark harmonies, cultural storytelling, dance routines and audience interaction.
“Food feeds the body. Culture feeds the soul. You cannot separate them. Hence, those who will attend the event must expect authenticity, and a powerful performance from us,” said Sibanda.
Known for its collaboration with Baba Harare on the hit song Rese, Amaqaqa is expected to perform a blend of new material and fan favourites that have helped cement its reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s leading imbube groups.
Sibanda said platforms such as the Good Seed and Food Festival play a vital role in introducing younger generations to traditional music while ensuring Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage remains visible, relevant and appreciated in modern society.
He said the Harare appearance forms part of Amaqaqa’s broader 2026 calendar, which includes national tours, regional performances, new music releases and educational workshops designed to teach young people traditional harmonies, performance skills and stagecraft.
Founded in Bulawayo, Amaqaqa has earned acclaim for its rich vocal harmonies and performances deeply rooted in African culture and faith, winning numerous awards along the way.
The ensemble has also taken its music beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, performing in countries such as Eswatini, South Africa and Botswana as it continues to build a growing regional presence and introduce wider audiences to the enduring appeal of imbube music.
