Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
CRADLED within the misty mountains and lush evergreen forests of the Eastern Highlands, Vumba is set to come alive this Sunday as organisers put the final preparations in place for the much-anticipated Ladies Summer Wind Down, a lifestyle event promising a perfect blend of music, relaxation and vibrant social energy.
Set for Vumba Gateway Gardens, the event is already generating buzz across social media platforms, with excitement steadily building among revellers eager to trade the city’s hustle for a refreshing day of music, relaxation and connection.
Organisers from Zimpapers Mutare — comprising The Manica Post and Diamond FM — say they are more than ready to host this year’s edition, promising a bigger, smoother and more engaging experience following the success of last year’s inaugural gathering.
At the centre of the festivities will be the ever-energetic jit musician, Baba Harare, who is set to headline the event, and deliver what fans are already anticipating to be a thrilling performance.
Known for his infectious stage presence and signature guitar-driven sound, the self-styled jit music king is expected to bring the gardens to life with a catalogue of crowd favourites.
Backing him will be the dynamic Terrible Twins, alongside popular Diamond FM DJs, Lampy and Kritic Igwee, as well as the versatile Mutare Prisons Band. Together, they are set to create a vibrant soundtrack that blends contemporary sounds with local flair, perfectly complementing the serene mountain setting.
Excitement has been steadily creeping across social media, where potential attendees have been sharing outfit ideas, tagging friends and counting down to the event.
The “all shades of brown” dress theme has particularly captured attention, with many revellers already planning stylish ensembles that will add elegance and visual harmony to the lush green surroundings.
One of the organisers, Eunice Sibanda, this week said everything is now in place for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
“The wait is over. The response so far has been very encouraging, especially on our social media platforms where people are already engaging and showing interest. We are ready to host and deliver an event that meets expectations,” she said.
She described the Ladies Summer Wind Down as more than just a music show, but a carefully curated lifestyle experience designed to give women a chance to unwind, connect and celebrate life.
“This is a platform for relaxation, networking and enjoyment in one of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful tourism destinations. The cool mountain air, breath-taking scenery and peaceful environment make Vumba the perfect setting,” said Sibanda.
Beyond entertainment, the event will also provide opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services to a vibrant and engaged audience.
Organisers have opened space for exhibitors, turning the gathering into a blend of leisure and commerce.
Advanced tickets are currently available at The Manica Post offices for US$5, while those who prefer to purchase at the gate will pay US$10.
To ensure convenience, transport arrangements have also been put in place, with shuttle services ferrying people to and from the venue from The Manica Post car park for just US$1.
For Baba Harare, Sunday’s performance marks a return to a familiar stage, having previously headlined the Diamond FM Summer Festival held at Osborne Dam in Mutasa District.
Baba Harare has promised fireworks.
“I am honoured to be part of such a beautiful event in Vumba. The atmosphere there is always magical and the fans in Mutare have incredible energy. I promise a powerful performance full of good music, dance and positive vibes. We are coming with a strong set and we want everyone to leave with unforgettable memories,” he said.
Having recently returned to secular music after a stint in gospel where he performed as King David, the talented guitarist is expected to deliver a polished act packed with energy, dance and musical finesse.
Songs such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Prove Them Wrong, Mwanasikana Kurauone, The Reason Why, Hat Dzemurara, Generator and Ndakazvipira are likely to set the tone for an afternoon of nonstop entertainment.
Beyond the music, the event is also a celebration of the Eastern Highlands’ natural beauty.
Known for its rolling green hills, cool mist and panoramic mountain views, Vumba remains one of Zimbabwe’s most enchanting leisure destinations.
Visitors attending the event will have the chance to soak in the scenery, from winding mountain roads to breath-taking viewpoints overlooking the Mozambique border.
The gardens themselves provide a refreshing natural escape, making the experience ideal for those seeking both relaxation and vibrant social interaction.
With organisers now confident and fully prepared, and excitement steadily building online and offline, this Sunday’s Ladies Summer Wind Down is shaping up to be another standout event on the entertainment calendar.
For those looking to escape into the mountains, enjoy good music and create lasting memories, Vumba is the place to be.
