Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The Bulawayo provincial launch of Culture Month, initially scheduled for Friday at Lobengula Hall, has been postponed to June 3. According to the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), this decision was made to align with the national launch and coincide with the upcoming Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF).
Cleopatra Dube, the NACZ provincial arts manager for Bulawayo, announced the shift in dates, stressing the importance of synchronising provincial celebrations with the national programme.
“We only do the provincial event after the national event. Since this year, the national launch is on Thursday, we pushed ours after that. It coincidentally falls into the BAF, and we are glad to be part of the festival week this year,” Dube explained.
The national Culture Month launch will take place on Thursday at Rusunguko Clinic under Chief Tshovani in Chiredzi, Masvingo province and will run under the theme, “Celebrating Indigenous Voices”. President Mnangagwa is expected to officiate the event, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
Bulawayo’s launch, now part of the vibrant BAF week, will be graced by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Judith Ncube, who will preside over the event. The programme promises a cultural extravaganza with performances from Khaya Arts, Bambanani Arts Ensemble, Umthwakazi Kandaba, Woza Africa, Umkhathi Theatre Works, and other celebrated local acts.
Culture Month, commemorated every May, celebrates Zimbabwe’s diverse traditions, languages, and creative expressions. By merging this year’s Bulawayo launch with BAF, the province is set to amplify its cultural showcase, drawing wider participation from artistes and audiences alike. – Follow on X: @MbuleloMpofu
