adminThe Great Zimbabwe University organised event ended on Saturday on a high note amid confirmation that Masvingo city is set to be transformed into the cultural capital of the whole country.
The event started on Thursday and it saw more than 20 theatrical, musical and dancing groups from all over the country taking part.
Botswana’s godfather of music, Ndingo Johwa, said it was an experience to be associated with the arts festival in Zimbabwe, adding that he felt good to be among the foreign artistes who participated in the annual event.
“I feel honoured to be taking part in this important festival,” said Johwa.
He said Zimbabwe and Botswana shared many things in common, chief among them culture and language.
“In some communities here, people speak Sotho, Kalanga, which are also spoken in Botswana. I speak Kalanga myself which is also common in Zimbabwe and that shows that our countries are inseparable,” said the man who is referred as Botswana’s Oliver Mtukudzi.
Bulawayo-based actress Sarah Mpofu-Sibanda said the DAF provided a platform for local and foreign artistes to meet and share ideas.
The festival saw performances from local artistes, ZIYA cultural ensemble, who showcased their hilarious play Vhara Zipa, Dembo Brothers, Amakhosi theatre, among notable artistes.
“The festival provided artistes with an opportunity to showcase their plays and we are happy we played before an audience comprising academics and foreign artistes.
“We are also happy because it is through such festivals that artistes find partners,” said Mpofu-Sibanda.
Meanwhile, Amakhosi director Cont Mhlanga has challenged the government to come up with an arts education policy.
Speaking on the sidelines of a GZU academic symposium, he said there was need to assist schoolchildren to understand their culture through education.
“I think we are missing a point by not introducing an arts policy in education. I have always said that the circle is not complete. There is need to marry the formal education system with the theatre. My dream is to see our Government coming out clean on what should be done to promote arts from grass roots level,” said Mhlanga.
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter