“By locals, for locals”: DJ Mapressa rallies convoy for Imiklomela KaDakamela commemorations

Excitement is building as the much-anticipated Imiklomela KaDakamela, an annual awards showcase and celebration of culture in Nkayi, draws near.

The Chief Dakamela Achievers Awards (Imiklomela KaDakamela) are a three-day annual celebration in Nkayi District, recognising outstanding contributions to community development, education, and innovation. Launched in 2022 by Chief Mbusi Bhekithemba Dakamela, the event taking place from April 3 to 6, honours schools, teachers, and locals, and features live local bands, a bush dinner, and a camping village KoDakamela for an immersive cultural experience.

Over time, it has grown beyond an awards ceremony into a cultural festival promoting domestic tourism and drawing visitors from across the country, and beyond.

To support this initiative, South Africa-based DJ Mapressa, originally from Tsholotsho, has launched an innovative campaign: a convoy rallying people from different areas to attend the event, starting from Bulawayo en-route to Nkayi.
The initiative has already attracted strong backing from business leaders, artistes, and community figures.

Speaking to the Chronicle, DJ Mapressa said the convoy is rooted in unity and cultural pride.
“The convoy was inspired by the Mapressa Glam (a fashion showcase that seeks to unite people from different areas). It’s about showing unity and communities coming together for one purpose,” he said.

He added that the initiative also aims to restore the dignity and recognition of traditional leaders.
“Chiefs have always been there, but I believe they are not given the respect they deserve. This convoy is meant to raise their status and remind people of their importance,” DJ Mapressa said.

The convoy is set to depart from the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo statue at 11am, passing through the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport and several stops, including Nyathi, Cross Matapa, Bona, Nkayi Centre, Sbuyu, Tohwe, Gonye, Manomano, and Khomayakha, before reaching KwaDakamela.

Inclusivity is central to the initiative, allowing even those without transport to participate.
“The convoy will start at 11am from the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo statue in Bulawayo, but even those without cars are free to join as we have arranged pick-up points along the route,” Mapressa said.

Beyond celebration, the convoy is also designed to promote Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage to a wider audience.
“We also want to showcase our culture to visitors, including those who have never been to Bulawayo or Zimbabwe before,” he said.

Numerous companies and artistes, including Qathoe and Double Voice, are expected to join the convoy.
“So far, we have different companies and artistes coming on board, which shows the level of support and unity behind this initiative,” DJ Mapressa said.

Running under the theme “By locals, for locals”, the convoy is expected to draw significant attention as communities converge in Nkayi to celebrate tradition, culture, and heritage.