Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
ARTS practitioners from Matabeleland South have greeted the Second Republic’s decision, under President Mnangagwa, to host the nation’s 46th Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa, Matobo district, with genuine joy and a sense of historical vindication. For many in the province, the choice felt like a long-awaited homecoming for national pride, an unspoken acknowledgement that their stories, rhythms and struggles, too, belong at the very heart of Zimbabwe’s narrative.
More than 30 artistes from across the region stepped confidently onto the national stage during the Independence gala, their performances electrifying the atmosphere and drawing thunderous approval from the hundreds who thronged the venue. Beyond the local audience, many more Zimbabweans followed the celebrations through ZBC TV, watching as Maphisa – usually a quiet administrative centre – transformed into a living canvas of sound, colour and cultural assertion. For the artists themselves, the gala was not merely entertainment; it was visibility, validation and opportunity rolled into one defining moment.
The coming of the national celebrations, according to Matabeleland South National Arts Council of Zimbabwe provincial manager Percy Vela, has done more than fill stadium seats. It has reignited cultural confidence in communities where tradition is often practised quietly, away from the glare of national platforms.
“This is great to the province especially when we look at infrastructure development that has taken place which include, the construction of the stadium, Culture Village, Vocational training centre, and science laboratories in 40 secondary schools, infrastructure development at Maphisa hospital.
“In addition, the road network in the province has greatly improved, especially roads leading to Maphisa. This is a great achievement to the arts sector where the Culture Village was used for showcasing cultural artefacts, performances and a possible gala in the stadium adjacent to the village.
‘This gave artistes in Matobo district business as supporting artistes in any big event to take place in the area,” he said, painting a picture of development that reaches beyond the festivities and settles into everyday life.
For veteran Gwanda-based poet Nqindi, the celebrations carried a deeply personal resonance. Having watched generations of artists labour without recognition, he spoke with heartfelt satisfaction about a moment that felt like a collective exhale for what he fondly calls the rainbow province.
He said the local artist felt honoured to be given after getting opportunities to host the prestigious event in the province, noting that such recognition does not simply uplift individuals, but restores belief in the creative vocation itself.
“I am happy that a number of artists from the province formed the biggest chunk of those who performed at the main celebrations and also at the gala. We thank the Government for such an opportunity,” said Nqindi, his words reflecting pride tempered by years of patient hope.
From Beitbridge, arts practitioner Dickens Sipho Mathe, widely known as Mathe, described the hosting of the Independence Celebrations as a milestone moment for Matabeleland South, particularly as it marked the first time since independence that the province had been entrusted with such a symbolic national event.
“It is a moment of pride for the people of the province because it places our region at the centre of a national event of great historical significance. Beyond the celebrations themselves, it also reflects national inclusivity and recognition of the province’s role in the liberation history and development of Zimbabwe.
“It is encouraging to see Maphisa and the wider province receiving attention through infrastructure development, road rehabilitation, and public facility upgrades,” said Mathe, capturing the emotional gravity felt by communities unaccustomed to being centre stage.
For Mathe, the true victory lies in what the celebrations have unlocked for the arts.
“For the arts sector, this is a major opportunity. Independence celebrations create a platform for local musicians, dancers, poets, drama groups, visual artists, and cultural performers to showcase the rich heritage of Matabeleland South to a national audience. It helped artists to gain visibility, attract new audiences, and even open doors for future bookings and collaborations”, he said.
He spoke with particular pride about one of his Beitbridge-based mentees, Bhadilah, who was afforded national exposure during the festivities, representing both his hometown and the wider province. To Mathe, that single opportunity symbolised countless unseen hours of mentorship finally finding tangible reward.
He said the independence gala also created fertile ground for networking, bringing together artists from different corners of the country and quietly sowing the seeds for collaboration, exchange and creative solidarity.
Cultural groups, he added, did not miss the chance to celebrate their identities, using performance and exhibitions to affirm local traditions, languages and shared histories that have endured across generations.
“The event stimulated the creative economy through event décor, fashion, media production, and entertainment services, thereby creating income opportunities for artists and creative entrepreneurs,” said Mathe, underscoring the broader livelihoods sustained by culture.
Poet Dr Gasolo from Matshetsheni village in Gwanda offered a grounded reflection that echoed across the province.
“For Independence to come to Matabeleland South is a good thing. It comes with a lot of economic benefits and infrastructural development which is a good thing for our province”.
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