Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE mbira is of deep cultural significance in Africa. It has a rich history that has endured through the ages.
Cultural experts consider it a sacred tool for connecting with ancestors, and a vital part of our local heritage.
The revered musical instrument is also increasingly appealing to global audiences, with cultural pilgrims travelling to Zimbabwe to learn about its rich tradition.
The mbira is now being studied in educational institutions, particularly in the United States and elsewhere in North America.
A major turning point came in 2020 when the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) inscribed the instrument on the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Following this recognition, the inaugural Bira ReMbira event was held last year at Gwanzura Stadium in Harare.
The event was so successful that September has since been officially designated Mbira Month.
This year’s celebrations, which will be running under the theme “Our Identity, Our Pride — Engraving Our Culture and Heritage Through Generations”, will take place on September 27 at the Heritage Village in Harare.
“This year’s edition features exhibitions of our cultures and heritage, ranging from traditional food, games, cultural practices, the mbira, its making, playing and other traditional complementing instruments, and the national fabric, among others,” said Benjamin Nyandoro, the festival manager.
The cultural event will combine both indoor and outdoor activities.
Mbira and traditional music groups, including distinguished artistes such as Samaita neMbira DzeNharira, Nyamasvisva Nemawungira eNharira, Jah Prayzah, Feli Nandi, Mangwenya, Kurai “Mukanya” Makore, Andy Muridzo, Sasha Madhuve, Virimai “Vee” Mhofu, Gushungo, Duramazwi, Sarungano, Sir Lino Piloto, Lioness Shumbakadzi, Nzombehuru, Taffie Matiure, Pauline Gundidza, Jah Lenny and Nina X will perform, along with many groups from outside Harare.
A mbira group from Malawi will also grace the event.
Female mbira player Shumbakadzi — real name Florence Nyamazana — said they will be celebrating the instrument “because it defines us”.
Fellow mbira player Vee Mhofu (born Virimai Nhedega) said: “This should be a special month for us as Zimbabweans because our own instrument has been endorsed for its significance. As mbira players, we feel honoured to be part of this phenomenon where we celebrate these special moments. We are also grateful that the instrument is here to stay and make an impression on us and future generations. I participated in last year’s inaugural event and I can’t wait to be part of this edition, where we are ready to embrace other players from Malawi.”
The inclusion of schools has also been hailed.
Music groups from primary and secondary schools have been commissioned to compose and record the 2025 Bira ReMbira theme song that will be released and performed at the festival.
“The theme song weaves together musical instruments not limited to the mbira, marimba, ngoma, hosho and vocals, all crafted under the festival theme . . . ,” said Nyandoro.
The song will be recorded at the Zimbabwe College of Music.
