Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
BULAWAYO is set to take centre stage in Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar tomorrow as it hosts the National Culture Month celebrations, with President Mnangagwa expected to preside over the event at Barbourfields Stadium.
The event is expected to draw thousands of people from across the country in a colourful celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage, while promoting unity, peaceful co-existence and national pride.
A wide-ranging programme has been lined up, featuring performances by traditional and contemporary dance groups, musicians and comedians. There will also be exhibitions and artistic displays highlighting the country’s diverse cultural expressions.
This year’s commemorations are being held under the theme “Cultural Diversity: Advancing Vision 2030” and coincide with the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, which is observed annually on 21 May.
More than 120 artistes from across the Matabeleland region have come together to prepare a special 30-minute showcase that will be performed before President Mnangagwa. The production brings together some of the region’s most prominent creative groups, including Matojeni Melo Maniacs, Gog’Bekezela, Iyasa, Umkhathi Theatre Works, Khaya Arts, Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble, Bolamba, Mthwakazi Arts, Simunye Simunye, Thandanani, Bambanani, Iluba Lemvelo and Vocal Ex.
The celebrations also tie in with the Government’s development agenda. Under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), launched by President Mnangagwa in November 2025, culture and heritage have been identified as key drivers of national identity, social cohesion and economic growth. The policy framework, which runs from 2026 to 2030, places the creative sector at the centre of youth empowerment, job creation and tourism development.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Mr Nicholas Moyo, said Bulawayo was a fitting host for the national event, given its strong cultural identity. He described the celebrations as an opportunity for the city to shine and reaffirm its status as Zimbabwe’s cultural hub.
“Bulawayo being chosen to host the national Culture Month celebrations is a strong recognition of the city’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution to the growth of Zimbabwe’s arts sector. Hosting these celebrations gives the city and its creatives a platform to showcase their talent, identity and cultural pride on a national stage. This is the time for the city to show off that it is indeed a cultural hub,” said Mr Moyo.
He said the event would allow Bulawayo and the wider Matabeleland region to demonstrate how deeply their culture is expressed through music, dance and food. Mr Moyo also welcomed the strong turnout of artistes, saying it reflected unity and inclusivity in a region known for its diversity.
“Bulawayo is a cosmopolitan and home to many cultures found across the region. This is a rare and important opportunity for the people of Matabeleland to tell their own stories through music, dance, fashion, language and traditional performances before His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, and the nation at large.
“Culture is a powerful tool for identity preservation and social cohesion. It is, therefore, important for Bulawayo to embrace such an opportunity to celebrate and preserve its heritage for future generations. The showcase will also help expose these creatives to wider audiences and create opportunities for growth, collaboration and national recognition,” he added.
Beyond the celebrations, the event is also expected to bring economic benefits to the city, particularly for businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
“People will be coming from across the country, and even ambassadors from different nations are expected to attend. It is, therefore, important for Bulawayo to remain true to its identity and come alive during the celebrations.
“At leisure spots, people expect to enjoy Matabeleland cuisine, while strong performances from local bands and artistes are also anticipated because that is what Bulawayo is known for. This is an opportunity for different sectors, including the hospitality industry, to benefit from increased business,” said Mr Moyo.
He also commended the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) Bulawayo office for its role in organising what is expected to be a major national event.
