Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWEAN music and culture took centre stage in Germany over the weekend as the Moto Moto Festival exploded into life with electrifying performances that left Cologne gasping for more.
Held on Saturday 19 July at the iconic Odonien venue, the second edition of the festival drew a colourful global crowd under the theme Afro. Culture. Future. Zimbabwean acts dominated the night with raw talent, fierce energy and world-class vibes.
From traditional drumming to hard-hitting hip-hop, 34 performers rocked the stage with a dazzling blend of sound and soul that put Zimbabwe firmly on the map.
Nkayi’s fire-spitting rap queen Awa Khiwe tore the roof off with her blazing Ndebele bars. Feli Nandi hypnotised the crowd with her velvet vocals and Afro-fusion charm. And newcomer Nisha Ts made a scorching European debut that proved Zim’s new school is not to be ignored.
Top-tier group Mokoomba brought the house down with a high-octane set that oozed international polish, while Pamuzinda thumped out traditional beats that kept the audience in a trance.
Also on the line up were mbira queen Mary Anibal, Cologne-based Munashe Lorraine, and UK stars Jah Hanief and Lil Jam. Harare’s own DJ Blaze kept the dance floor on fire with hypnotic Afro beats.
Festival founder Plot Mhako said: “This year proved it. Zimbabwean talent is world-class. The performances were electric. Moto Moto is a bridge between Zimbabwe and the world.”
Mhako says many local acts remain in the shadows due to lack of international platforms, something the festival is actively changing.
“We are building a global stage for Zimbabwean creatives. In 2026, we are going bigger, bringing in more Southern African talent and pushing cross-cultural exchange.”
The next Moto Moto Festival is locked in for 18 July 2026. If this year is anything to go by, it’s not to be missed.
derick.khumalo