Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
JITI lovers in the southern region of the country were treated to an unforgettable musical experience this past weekend, as Baba Harare made a triumphant return to the genre that cemented his status as a household name.
The “Jiti Godfather” left no doubt that he remains at the pinnacle of the genre, delivering back-to-back sold-out performances in Bulawayo and Beitbridge that had fans clamouring for more.
Having briefly explored Gospel music, Baba Harare is now firmly back on familiar ground, touring his latest album, The Return of the Jiti Godfather – Greater and Wiser. The project comprises five tracks: Couple of Years featuring Gemma Griffiths, Poverty, Chigaba Chinorira, 9 Months, and Tiende featuring Blessing Jeduthun.
The album’s title reflects the artiste’s journey — one of introspection, growth, and rediscovery.
At Palace Gardens in Bulawayo on Friday, anticipation was palpable. The crowd’s energy steadily built as Jah Signal surprised fans with a dynamic opening act at 11pm, performing favourites such as Usabvume, Simudza Chako, Ndoenda Newe, and Stonyeni — the latter sending the audience into a frenzy, demanding an encore. Maintaining the momentum, DJ Keitho and MC Mr Jaiva kept the crowd on their feet with a vibrant mix of Kwaito and Amapiano before the headline act. Then, at precisely 2am, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived.
The atmosphere erupted as Baba Harare stepped onto the stage — cheers deafening, energy electric. The Jiti maestro launched into a set that seamlessly blended beloved classics with fresh tracks from his new album. His commanding vocals, spirited choreography, and magnetic stage presence reminded fans why he is affectionately known as The Jiti Kingpin.
Tracks such as Jiti Gure, Stumbo, Ex Tsano, Poto Inopisa, Kumadhudhudhu, and Ndirikunakwa Amai ignited the venue. Yet it was his new hit Poverty that stole the show. Fans demanded it three times, singing along word for word.
For two hours, Baba Harare delivered a performance that felt like a celebration, a reunion, and a rebirth all rolled into one.
The following day, the energy shifted south to Beitbridge, where Baba Harare continued his Jiti revival. Before his headline performance at Pagomba Café, he made a surprise appearance at Terry Gardens, where ecstatic fans pulled him onto an impromptu stage. What was intended as a brief greeting evolved into a mini-concert, with audiences of all ages dancing and singing along.
Later that evening at Pagomba, the main show drew massive crowds, and once again, Baba Harare delivered a powerhouse performance that reaffirmed his return to the throne.
Show organiser Tapiwa Gandiwa said the weekend demonstrated Baba Harare’s enduring influence and deep connection with his fans.
“He returned with immense energy and charisma. At both shows, he gave outstanding performances — a testament to his passion for the craft and respect for his audience,” said Gandiwa.
Fans echoed this sentiment, describing Baba Harare’s shows as “a spiritual Jiti revival” and applauding his ability to fuse traditional and contemporary sounds while remaining true to his roots.
With his comeback tour now underway, Baba Harare plans to take The Return of the Jiti Godfather on a national and international circuit, with stops across Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, where he is scheduled to perform in Birmingham on November 29.
Reflecting on his journey, a visibly content Baba Harare shared the emotional process behind his return.
“It took me some time to finally decide to return to Jiti music. I wanted to ensure I had a complete project before announcing my comeback, so the music could speak for itself. At first, I was concerned about how people would respond, but my true followers never judged me. Instead, they increased their support — and that means everything to me,” he said.
This past weekend confirmed it: the Jiti Godfather is back — greater, wiser, and ablaze with passion.
