Byo to host Amatshitshi Festival

BULAWAYO is set to host the Amatshitshi Festival for the first time on August 29, as organisers bring one of Matabeleland’s fast-growing cultural celebrations into the heart of the city.

The festival, curated by the Sigiya Ngamasiko Ethu movement, will take place at a venue yet to be announced. It forms part of the build-up programme for this year’s King Mzilikazi Commemoration Day, scheduled for September 4 and 5.

The event is expected to spotlight cultural expression, traditional performance, and community heritage, strengthening the lead-up to one of the region’s most significant historical commemorations.

Since its inception five years ago, the Amatshitshi Festival has been staged in different parts of Matabeleland. However, organisers said bringing the event to Bulawayo marks a significant milestone for the initiative.

Sigiya Ngamasiko Ethu co-founder Ashley Moyo said the move has been a long time coming.

“We have Amatshitshis in different parts of Matabeleland, but this will be the first time young maidens from different regions gather together in Bulawayo to celebrate themselves, their values and our shared cultural identity,” said Moyo.

She said the festival seeks to promote social cohesion while creating a safe cultural space where young women can proudly embrace African traditions without fear of ridicule or judgement.

Moyo said this year’s edition promises a colourful showcase of culture through music, dance, storytelling, traditional cuisine and educational activities centred on preserving heritage.

“There’ll be cultural exhibitions, traditional cuisines, a street parade, interactive workshops and performances celebrating our heritage. For the maidens, there’ll also be a camp ahead of the festival where they’ll participate in cultural games and receive teachings from elders and grandmothers (Ogogo), who continue to play an important role in passing down values and traditions from one generation to another,” she said.

Moyo revealed that they have partnered with the National Aids Council of Zimbabwe (NAC), who will provide health awareness programmes and support services during both the camp and the main festival.

She encouraged young girls to choose to preserve their virginity until marriage, as this is a practice traditionally regarded in many African communities as a symbol of discipline, dignity and self-respect.

“Being a tshishi is not about oppression or limitation. It’s about self-respect, honour and understanding one’s value. Traditionally, young girls were raised through guidance from parents, grandparents and elders who taught them the importance of protecting their dignity and reputation.

“Today, many young girls still proudly embrace these teachings, not because they are forced to, but because they understand the importance of protecting their future, health and their peace of mind,” said Moyo.

She said abstinence and self-discipline also complement modern health awareness efforts by helping young girls avoid early pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and emotional trauma associated with premature relationships.

Moyo believes that this year’s edition of Amatshitshi Festival will ensure that culture continues to coexist with modern life.

“Through this festival, we want young girls to know they can walk proudly in both worlds, embracing modern opportunities while remaining grounded in their culture.

“We hope that this edition will not only entertain, but also ignite meaningful conversations around identity, heritage and the relevance of African traditions in contemporary society,” said Moyo.