Online Reporter
Joshua Muswere
LEGENDARY South African kwaito and Afro-pop group, Bongo Maffin, will headline this year’s Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts (OMiFa).
They will be joined by Zimbabwe’s own chart-topping superstar, Jah Prayzah, for a powerful two-day celebration of music and culture on September 19th and 20th.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome the iconic sounds of Bongo Maffin to the OMiFa stage,” said Festival Director Samantha Mtukudzi. “Their music carries a message of unity and social consciousness that resonates across generations. Alongside Jah Prayzah who has been a big pillar of support for the festival and our incredible lineup of local talent, this year truly embodies the spirit of international celebration and artistic excellence that OMiFa was founded upon.”
The festival boasts a deep roster of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated and emerging artists namely Feli Nandi, Tamy Moyo, Jah Signal, Saintfloew, Agga Nyabinde, Hwamanda, and Mandava, SaMasamba, Vee Mhofu, Terry Mbofana, Tatenda Mhangami, Munya Nyamarebvu and The Black Spirits featuring Gary Tight, who was very close to Dr Oliver Mtukudzi and Sam Mtukudzi.
“Our creative vision for OMiFa has always been to present a tapestry of sounds that reflects the richness of our heritage while looking firmly to the future,” From the established greatness of Bongo Maffin to the incredible new voices on our lineup, and most importantly, with the launch of our Kids Festival, we are not just hosting an event; we are nurturing the next generation of artists and arts lovers. This is the future of OMiFa.”
“This year’s festival will focus on the Kids Festival program on Saturday morning, which was a hit last year. This dedicated family-friendly space, featuring activities and performances for younger audiences, is a key investment in the future of the arts and a core part of the festival’s growing vision.” said Festival Creative Director Marcus Gora. “
The Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts honours the life and legacy of one of Africa’s most beloved musicians. It is a platform for cultural exchange, artistic innovation, and community celebration.
