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Langalakhe Mabena, Trust Khosa
The stage is set for the much-anticipated Zimbabwe @46 Independence Gala, to be held at Minda High School grounds, Maphisa, Matobo District, on Saturday, with a vibrant showcase of music, culture and national pride expected to run from 6pm into the early hours.
The gala will follow the main Independence Day celebrations at Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, where President Mnangagwa is expected to preside, setting the tone for a day steeped in reflection and celebration.
This year’s programme boasts a rich and diverse line-up, bringing together some of the country’s most celebrated and emerging artistes. Among those billed to perform are Jeys Marabini, Clement Magwaza, Mavusani and The Chimurenga Vocalists, Dereck Mpofu, Andy Muridzo, LMG Choir, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Zinjaziyamluma, Black Umfolosi, Ndolwane Super Sounds and Chief Hwenje. Also taking to the stage are Khonangale, Indosakusa The Morning Star, Iyasa, Bhadilah, Chase Skuza, Jah Master, Sasha, Bolamba Culture Birds, Sulumani Chimbetu, Ufasimba Home of Arts, DT Bio Mudimba and Dubia Masters.
Guiding the proceedings will be a seasoned hosting team comprising Thulani Munyandi, Leonard Ncube, Nqobile Malinga and Cde Phil Moyo.
The artistes have signalled their readiness to deliver memorable performances.
Seasoned jazz and Marabi maestro Jeys Marabini, a regular on national stages, welcomed the hosting of this year’s commemorations in Matabeleland South, describing it as a homecoming of significance.
“I’m grateful to be part of the gala in Maphisa. Performing on home ground makes it even more special. As we commemorate Zimbabwe’s Independence Day, we’re reminded that our freedom came at a great cost.
“It’s a day of pride, but also one of reflection to honour the brave souls, who sacrificed their lives so that we may live in a free nation,” said Marabini.
For Ndolwane Super Sounds, the occasion marks a historic milestone. Frontman Martin Sibanda said the group is honoured to be making its first appearance at the national gala stage since its formation in the 1990s.
“This will be our first time performing at the Independence Gala, and it’s truly an honour for our brand to be allowed to showcase on such a platform. I’ve been around for a while and have always wondered why I was left out all these years.
“To be given a chance to perform at a national event is every artiste’s dream. For us, it’s a major achievement. We thank the Second Republic and everyone who made this possible,” said Sibanda.
Maskandi artiste Zinjaziyamluma, the sole representative of his genre on the line-up, views his inclusion as a sign of growing recognition.
“Being called to perform at such a national event shows that I’m doing something right in my career. I’m looking forward to performing,” he said.
New-age performer Ma9Nine is preparing a fusion set that reflects his evolving sound. He said fans should expect something fresh.
“People know me for ZimDancehall, but together with my brother Sipho Mercent Nyathi, we released two Tshibilika tracks and are working on a full-length album. I’m looking forward to sampling some of those songs at the gala.
“As someone from Tsholotsho performing in my home province, I know what our people expect on stage, and I’m ready to deliver exactly that. This will be a gala to remember,” Ma9Nine said.
Revolutionary singer Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sanyanga, a crowd favourite at national events, promised yet another electric performance.
“I can’t wait to perform in Maphisa, where I command a huge following. This year’s event is special, as the President’s mantra of leaving no one behind is being realised, with Maphisa hosting a national event that brings Zimbabweans together.
“This is special to me because we’re celebrating our independence as one people, and I’m grateful for the rare opportunity to shine alongside my peers,” Chief Hwenje said.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Sulumani Chimbetu, who reiterated his commitment to giving his all whenever he performs on a national stage.
“I love my country, and nothing will take that away. Each time I perform at a state function, I feel blessed. It makes me feel responsible and pushes me to do my best for my country,” he said.
For Andy Muridzo, the gala is more than just a performance; it is a reunion with a region that shaped him.
“It feels good to be performing in Matabeleland, which is closer to Bulawayo, my favourite town, since I once stayed there. Each time that I perform, there’s a special connection between me and my fans, which gives me the urge to do well on stage.
“I can only promise fireworks because the new dispensation under President Mnangagwa has given us the freedom to express ourselves on a bigger platform. I can assure fans that I won’t disappoint them in Maphisa,” Muridzo said.
Dereck Mpofu, now based in Harare but with roots in Plumtree, praised the decentralisation of national events, describing it as a progressive step.
“I’m excited about the invitation to perform in Maphisa, it will be my first time there. I feel humbled to be included in the line-up, and I’m looking forward to meeting my peers there, many of whom have long wanted to see me perform.
“I’m also eager to share the stage with artistes from Bulawayo; it’s going to be an amazing experience.”
As a fitting crescendo to the night, top acts are expected to deliver powerful sets, with imbube outfit Black Umfolosi, led by Sotja Moyo of the “Unity” fame, among the headline attractions.
Online Reporter