Online Reporter
Nodumo Moyo, [email protected]
BULAWAYO is set to once again come alive to the infectious rhythms of rhumba music when the Rhumba Festival returns for its third edition on August 7, with organisers promising a bigger production, stronger line-up and an even richer cultural experience.
Having steadily grown since its inaugural edition, the festival has become one of the city’s emerging music showcases, celebrating rhumba and Tshibilika music while creating opportunities for both established performers and up-and-coming artistes.
The latest edition aims to build on the success of the previous two instalments, with organisers saying preparations are at an advanced stage and several improvements have been made to enhance the overall entertainment experience.
The festival will feature performances by South Africa-based group Isolezwe, who will be making their Rhumba Festival debut, alongside Mlambos Express Band, Abigail Mabuza and Ndux Junior. A host of DJs will also keep revellers entertained throughout the event.
Organisers said the line-up was carefully curated to strike a balance between celebrated performers and rising talent, ensuring audiences enjoy a diverse musical experience while staying true to the spirit of rhumba and traditional music.
Beyond the entertainment, the festival continues to play an important role in preserving and promoting rhumba and Tshibilika music by creating a platform where veteran musicians perform alongside younger artistes and DJs.
One of the festival organisers, Palace Gardens entertainment manager, Keith Webster Ndiweni, popularly known as DJ Keitho, said the vision extends far beyond hosting an annual music event.
“Our vision is to make the Rhumba Festival one of Zimbabwe’s premier music festivals and a key attraction on Bulawayo’s annual events calendar.
We want it to boost tourism, support local businesses, create employment opportunities within the entertainment sector, and position Bulawayo as a leading destination for live music and cultural events,” he said.
For the DJ who will be one of the DJs on rotation, performing at the Rhumba Festival is more than just another booking, it is an opportunity to honour and preserve a musical genre that has stood the test of time.
He believes rhumba is deeply woven into the region’s cultural fabric and has a unique ability to unite people of different generations through its timeless rhythms and storytelling.
“Rhumba is more than just music, it’s part of our cultural identity and brings generations together. Being part of a festival that celebrates this rich heritage gives me the opportunity to contribute to preserving and promoting the genre while introducing it to younger audiences,” he said.
He said he has been fine-tuning his performance, carefully curating a playlist that blends beloved rhumba classics with contemporary favourites.
“I’ve been carefully selecting music and planning my set to match the mood of the festival. I’m preparing exclusive mixes, smooth transitions and a few surprises to keep the audience engaged,” he said.
He will share the decks with Ayaxx, SKB and Flexxy.
