Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
SOUTH African culturalist and Afro-Fusion musician Phila Dlozi, who headlined the “Chill and Gin” event last weekend, has revealed that he was charmed by the vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality he received in Bulawayo.
The Babekazi hitmaker shared the stage with the equally gifted Sylent Nqo and the Noise Makers, as well as award-winning local muso, Bhila.
The creative, well-known for blending traditional Zulu elements with Afro-soul — focusing on themes of spirituality, ancestry, and healing — revealed that from the moment he arrived in Bulawayo, he felt at home.
He described the City of Kings as the safest place he has ever visited.
Dlozi, who hails from KwaSokhulu near Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, noted the profound cultural similarities between his hometown and Bulawayo.
“Ever since I came here, I have not spoken in English. I used my own language — IsiZulu. If I go back to South Africa and share my experience, many will be blown away to discover that we have our brothers on this part of the continent,” said Dlozi.
“A lot connects us, the Zulus and the Ndebele people, and the major unifying factor is Ubuntu. During my stay here, I realised that people in Bulawayo are down to earth and they have respect for other people, especially visitors. With that, I can tell that our cultures are similar.”
He added: “Even in culinary, we eat almost similar food, a sign that our ancestors are the same. It is my wish that we start embracing ourselves as one, because nothing is separating us apart from borders.”
The major highlight of his set was the performance of the spiritual track Ikhandlela, a stirring anthem that encourages unity among Africans.
The song left revellers eager to connect not just with one another, but also with their ancestral roots.
Dlozi’s ability to evoke such deep emotions demonstrated the power of music to inspire change and foster oneness across different African ethnicities.
On the sidelines of the show, the muso revealed that he is looking forward to returning to Zimbabwe as he is currently working on a long-term project with Sylent Nqo.
“I am in the studio with the Guitar Sangoma as we are working on a full-length project that will tie us together. This means that I will be making some shows in Zimbabwe soon.
“We are also planning an African tour as we believe that we have to take this message of unity to the entire continent,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu