Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ACCLAIMED Imbube ensemble, Black Umfolosi, is ready for the 46th Uhuru Gala set to take place at Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.
Running under the theme “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030”, the musical extravaganza will be held at Minda High School on April 18 to be exact.
Focusing on Matabeleland South and its creatives, it is noteworthy that Black Umfolosi under the leadership of Socha Moyo will certainly headline the event along with IYASA and Sandra Ndebele.
Famed for the all-time classic “Unity”, Moyo assured fans that they are not out to add numbers.
“It’s a great feeling to be invited in Maphisa for the Independence gala celebrations.
“We are ready for the event, and we hope to deliver one of our polished shows.
“We can’t afford to disappoint fans who have a lot of faith in us,” he boldly declared.
A former freedom fighter, Moyo assured Zimbabwe to respect Uhuru.
“We need to honour those who fought for the birth of Zimbabwe and other outstanding figures in Zimbabwe.
“Independence is time for us to reflect on where we came from and our identity, which shapes us as Zimbabweans.
“This is the special time we need to celebrate being Zimbabweans.”
He added: “I urge people to show up in numbers in Maphisa, and I can assure travellers that they won’t be disappointed by the warm reception in Mat South.
“We are one people, and we should celebrate this milestone together. Forty-six years of self-rule is a huge success.”
Besides Black Umfolosi, there is an array of other groups performing there.
For most people in rural areas, this will be their first time meeting the two enterprising groups under one roof.
Other top acts included in the line-up comprise Jeys Marabini, Chase Skuza, Sandra Ndebele, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Black Umfolosi, Dereck Mpofu, Bio Mudhimba, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sanyanga, Gudoluhle and Friends, Dubia Masters, Bolamba Culture Birds, Zondamuthakathi Dance Group, Zinja Ziyamuluman Mxolisi, and many more.
In another interview, Nkululeko Dube, the IYASA founding director, said they were raring to go.
“We are ready for this gala and hope to deliver our best since it is happening in Matabeleland South,” he stressed.
“With this gala, it feels like we are performing on home ground, and it’s a great opportunity to give people an experience, as we always do. “We promise one of the best experiences. It’s quite an honour being in Matabeleland, specifically in Maphisa. Therefore, we aim to deliver one of our best performances.”
Dube, whose cultural ensemble will be celebrating 25 years in the industry, noted that the Uhuru gala serves as a precursor for more from Iyasa this year.
“It’s the beginning of the year, and we are currently preparing something special for people to enjoy the gala as much as possible.
“We look forward to it and feel ready. I believe our experience with galas gives us a good idea of how to approach and showcase this event.”
Dube continued: “It’s also an honour to be included in this gala, as we are one of the brands that have worked with galas for many years.
“I think when galas started, that was when Iyasa got the opportunity to be showcased nationally. Many people know Iyasa through national galas, so we truly appreciate the Ministry of Information and the Government for their loyalty and support of our creative work over the years. It is always an honour. “We last performed in Maphisa many years ago. There was a time when the gala was held in Matabeleland, but it’s been a long time since then. So yes, we are looking forward to it.”
Euphoria has since gripped Maphisa, where preparations are in full swing.
Serious road rehabilitation is taking place in the area, with the Government holding state functions.
Last year, Nembudziya Government High School in Gokwe, Midlands, hosted the 45th Uhuru Musical Gala, which featured an impressive line-up, including Simon Mutambi, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Clement Magwaza, Argatha Murudzwa, Shantel Sithole, Jah Signal, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Sandra Ndebele and Peter Moyo.
This year promises even more fun, with Iyasa and Marabini set to headline the event.
The Uhuru gala is more The impact of such events reaches beyond the night itself.
