Chronicle Editor
Showbiz Reporter
AS the ruling Zanu-PF party gears up for its annual conference in Bulawayo this week, various activities have been lined up in the city with entertainment stakeholders saying they are ready to host visitors.
The conference, set for tomorrow up to Sunday, is expected to attract thousands of delegates from across the country, providing a welcome boost to the city’s entertainment scene.
This year’s conference will coincide with the SADC Anti-Sanctions Day on Friday. The SADC Anti-Sanctions Day will be held under the theme “Embracing Innovation towards Vision 2030: The Relentless Fight against Illegal Sanctions”, which is consistent with the 44th SADC Summit theme.
Activities lined up to mark the day include the SADC Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Summit, comprising a media indaba, roadshow, cultural and music events, solidarity marches and public awareness campaigns.
In a recent preparatory meeting, Zanu-PF national chairperson, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, said they are looking forward to artistes from the host conference shining at the conference.
“We’re looking forward to having entertainment coming from this province and other surrounding provinces, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South. This is a tradition in Zanu-PF that we also give opportunities to local groups so that they can showcase what they do best. We will also have a gala at the end of the conference,” she said.
Local musicians, DJs, and performers are eagerly anticipating the conference, as it’s an opportunity to showcase their talents to a wider audience.
“The conference will bring people from all over Zimbabwe to Bulawayo, and we’re excited to share our city’s vibrant entertainment scene with them,” said DJ Joe Tha OG, a veteran of Bulawayo’s music scene.
“We’re preparing special performances and events to make this conference unforgettable.”
Tha OG’s sentiments were also echoed by popular DJ Mzoe who plays at the hugely popular koSamuriwo Pub n Grill.
“Us DJs and the spots we perform at will surely benefit from this big event in Bulawayo. The entertainment sub-economy needs such big events to roll into town and bring us more customers,” said DJ Mzoe.
Former Vungu MP, Omega Sibanda, who owns Archers Sports Club in the city, said: “Events of this magnitude always have a positive impact on our industry. We’re anticipating increased walk-in and drive-in traffic, which translates to more business for us.”
Hotels, restaurants, and bars are also expected to benefit from the influx of visitors.
“We’re already experiencing increased bookings, and we’re confident that our hospitality industry will shine during the conference,” said Byron Rice, chief executive officer of Harris Lodges.
The conference is also expected to provide a platform for local artistes to network and collaborate with visiting musicians and industry professionals.
“This is a chance for our creatives to connect with influencers and decision-makers, potentially opening doors for future opportunities,” said Archie Chiponda, Zanu-PF Bulawayo Province Information Secretary.
“We’re ready to show our hospitality and make this conference a success,” said Nketa MP, Albert Mavhunga, who also sits on the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
“We’re confident that our city’s entertainment and arts scene will leave a lasting impression on our visitors.”
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