Bulawayo creatives ready for a successful 2026

Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

MALE artistes from Bulawayo have expressed optimism for a great new year ahead where they are targeting to undertake projects which will grow their brands.

A number of local male artistes have had a fair share of the year 2025 from hosting successful shows, landing roles on internationally acclaimed series to producing high quality films and videos

For Mzoe 7, 2025 Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) Male Artiste of The Year winner, he has his eyes set on taking his brand and those of others to the international scene.

“2026 is time we go global not only Mzoe7 but we try to uplift as much talent for export. I, Brand Urgency, Sporori and Keaitse Films are working on a movie because we need to tell our own stories in our own way.

“Personally, I need to grow the Majita Let’s Talk initiative to fight drug abuse and help communities. I’m expecting more partnerships and to hold seminars that empower fellow creatives. Collaborations definitely with Albert Nyathi and more with anyone willing to work.

There is a need to create a bigger team or ecosystem because sometimes it strains to balance creativity and business, though you can’t separate the two, thus I’m already working on a game-plan to make sure l don’t get strained,” said Mzoe 7.

The 2025 most popular artiste in the City of Kings and Queens, DJ Mzoe who bagged the BAA People’s Choice Award, said as a deejay, photographer and videographer, it’s time to share the knowledge with others.

“2026 we are trying to aim higher than before with our main projects is to scale up our deejaying school, where we want to recruit even more students.

“As brand Fudu Media we are on course to put photography and videography lessons. As DJ Mzoe, I am looking to do more collaborations with clubs around town and try to balance all that. We will be giving each and everything its own time so that they don’t clash,” said DJ Mzoe.

Actor Greatjoy Hlatshwayo said his main goal for 2026 is to expand his craft beyond borders through international collaborations.

“I want my work to reach wider audiences while still staying rooted in authentic African storytelling and values. I plan to achieve this by intentionally networking with international creatives, participating in cross-border projects, improving my craft through continuous learning, and positioning myself for platforms that allow global visibility.

“2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year. I will be presenting a new gospel television show titled Lifting Up His Name, a talent show which focuses on faith, inspiration, and hope. I also have a romantic project set to première on the 14th of February, which audiences can really look forward to. In addition, I will be completing Beneath the Surface Season 1, under Belinda Musemburi Films, alongside other creative engagements and collaborations that I will announce when the time is right, I have with local producers,” said Greatjoy Hlatshwayo.

He said balancing creativity with business is essential for sustainability.
“In 2026, I plan to continue treating my craft both as an art and a brand. This means protecting creative integrity while being intentional about planning, partnerships, and monetisation.

“I will work closely with the right team, make informed business decisions, and remain disciplined with time and resources — so creativity can thrive without losing sight of growth, impact, and longevity,” he said.

Rasquesity of Keaitse Films, one of the most sought-after film practitioners in the city, said 2026 is to focus more on short films and short television magazine shows for social media.

“The rollout plan is to engage upcoming actors on short films and use available resources and locations, especially high-density suburbs. On short television magazine shows, I will work with local Matabeleland artistes who are making a name in the creative industry in a way to amplify the work they are doing.

“I’m already on the production of a number of music projects I’m doing with Fury Gunn, Xantel and Ntu2kay. I believe these collaborations will contribute to the elevation of the creative industry. Look out for those projects anytime from 20 January 2026. My creative side is always business-oriented. To me, art is business, so the balance would be natural. We will look at various ways to monetise whatever we put out and also seek brand partnerships with local business. In God we trust, and in business we win,” said Rasquesity. — @mthabisi_mthire