Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
JEYS Marabini, Clement Magwaza and Iyasa are among the headline acts set to perform at this year’s Anti-Sanctions Gala, which gets underway at 6PM today at Chipadze Stadium in Bindura, following afternoon celebrations and exhibitions.
The trio of Matabeleland acts is expected to add variety to the national event, bringing their trademark energy, stage presence and well-choreographed performances to the all-night musical gala.
Running under the theme, “Leveraging Regional Integration and Global Partnerships for Economic Transformation Beyond Illegal Sanctions”, the event will feature exhibitions and celebrations in the afternoon before the musical gala gets underway in the evening.
Marabini, who has just returned from a European tour, is looking forward to performing at the star-studded event.
“I can’t wait to perform in Bindura at such a big occasion,” said Marabini.
“This will be our first performance at a national event after weeks of touring Europe.
“It’s more than an honour for us to be recognised and be part of this event. We are not only adding numbers but will also add variety.”
He added: “We are looking forward to the show, and I can assure you that it will be more than just an ordinary performance.
“I love my country and I will always give it my all when performing at national events. I urge fans to turn up in their numbers.”
For Iyasa, the gala comes on the back of a successful two-month tour of Germany, where the group performed in major cities, including Berlin and Hamburg.
Magwaza, meanwhile, is known for his energetic stage presence. Reserved off stage but a force to reckon with during performances, the musician is expected to bring his trademark flair to Bindura.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services deputy director Hymn Mureru said pre-parations for the event were at an advanced stage, with the groundwork completed.
“Preparations are well on course, with exhibitions set to take place in the afternoon at Chipadze Stadium,” he told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“After the main celebration, which will feature a number of activities, including exhibitions by various institutions, a musical gala will follow.
“It will be an all-night gala, as usual, starting at 6 pm. In terms of preparations, all the groundwork has been done. We are now waiting for the main celebration.”
Besides the trio, revered trumpeter Tanga wekwa Sando, real name Ernest Tanga Kambadzo Sando, is among the performers lined up for the gala.
Last “Tambaoga” Chiyangwa will also share the stage with seasoned performers such as Admire “Chief Hwenje” Shumba, Andy Muridzo, Shantel Sithole, Bio Mudimba, Delroy Shewe, Mark Ngwazi and Bigboy Motsi.
Other acts include Guruve Marimba Ensemble, Atenda Chinx, Obert Chari and the Police Band.
Zimdancehall fans can also look forward to a performance by Jah Master, who has spent more than a decade in the music industry.
Young performers, including Shewe and Chinx, will be looking to prove that the next generation of musicians is ready to take over from the old guard.
Mudimba, who made waves with the song “Kujata-jata”, continues to gain recognition, with appearances at high-profile events underscoring his growing appeal. Known for his engaging performances, the musician invests heavily in choreography, adding theatrical flair to his stage act.
With Ngwazi on the line-up, sungura fans also have reason to celebrate. The musician has carved out a niche by combining music with comedy, a formula that has helped him establish himself as a household name.
October 25 is observed as SADC Anti-Sanctions Day following a declaration made in August 2019 at the 39th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Since the commemorations began, member states have used the day to call for the lifting of sanctions while highlighting Zimbabwe’s progress in governance, economic reforms and engagement with the international community.
Last year’s edition was held at Heritage Village in Harare.
