Byo ready to host main Culture Month celebrations

BULAWAYO is preparing to roll out the red carpet for this year’s National Culture Month main celebrations, with organisers confirming that preparations for the flagship event are now at an advanced stage.

The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), in partnership with the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, said all systems are in place for the City of Kings to host the national event at Barbourfields Stadium on Thursday, May 21. President Mnangagwa is expected to officiate as guest of honour.

Thousands of people from across the country are expected to converge in the city for the celebrations, which honour Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.

Running under the theme “Cultural Diversity: Advancing Vision 2030”, the commemorations coincide with Unesco’s World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, observed annually on May 21.

The celebrations will feature performances by selected traditional and contemporary dance groups, musicians and comedians, while also showcasing Zimbabwe’s diverse cultural expressions through exhibitions and other artistic displays.

NACZ Bulawayo provincial arts manager Cleopatra Dube said the city was fully prepared and honoured to host the national celebrations, describing Bulawayo as one of Zimbabwe’s foremost cultural centres.

“It is a privilege for Bulawayo to welcome the entire nation to celebrate our culture and heritage. As hosts, we are proud to showcase the city’s rich dances, music, literature, food, language, fashion, architecture and deep-rooted history. We also look forward to embracing and celebrating the diverse cultures that make up Zimbabwe.

“From a logistical perspective, preparations are progressing smoothly and we are on course, with all stakeholders finalising the necessary arrangements to host the nation. As a metropolitan province, Bulawayo is home to many tribes whose cultures continue to thrive in the city, and we are excited to see this diversity come alive through exhibitions, performances and the people who will attend,” said Dube.

Players within the arts sector are raring to showcase their talent and have welcomed the Government’s decision to host the main commemorations in Bulawayo.

Umkhathi Theatre Works director and cultural practitioner Matesu Dube said the celebrations would place the spotlight firmly on artistes and cultural practitioners.

Musician Mzoe7 said hosting the national celebrations in Bulawayo would create a powerful platform for artistes to authentically showcase their heritage.

“These events help preserve local stories and cultural practices that may otherwise be overlooked, while giving communities ownership of how their culture is represented. I also believe the celebrations will create important opportunities for artistes to network, collaborate and grow their careers. Musicians, poets, actors, designers and other creatives will be able to meet potential partners, promoters and sponsors from within and outside the province,” he said.

Intwasa Arts Festival koBulawayo director Raisedon Baya said the celebrations would also stimulate economic activity in the city.

“In terms of benefits, many artistes will get opportunities to exhibit and perform, meaning jobs and income opportunities will be created during this period. This is a huge gathering, and sectors such as hospitality and restaurants will also benefit,” said Baya.