Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
PREPARATIONS are underway for the fourth edition of the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards, set to take place over three days in Nkayi. The festival will run from April 3 to 5, 2026, with Chief Dakamela, the event’s founder, reaffirming his commitment to positioning Nkayi as a premier cultural and tourism destination.
This announcement follows the resounding success of the 2025 festival, held at Dakamela Grounds in April, which attracted over 6 000 attendees, including dignitaries, cultural leaders and royal houses from across Southern Africa.
The 2025 edition was graced by prominent figures such as His Majesty King Bongwe II of the Ndebele Nzunza Royal House (South Africa), representatives from the Ndebele-Manala Royal House, the Zulu Royal House and a delegation from King Mpezeni of the Ngoni Kingdom (Zambia). Their presence underscored the festival’s growing significance in fostering cultural ties and regional unity.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, who was also in attendance, hailed Nkayi as an emerging cultural hotspot.
“Nkayi and Binga are our new cultural crowns, and the world must see them!” she declared during this year’s event.
In an official statement, Chief Dakamela welcomed the recent designation of Nkayi District as a tourism destination by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry. He emphasised the vital role the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Cultural Festival plays in celebrating the district’s rich cultural heritage and promoting rural tourism development in Zimbabwe.
“At its core, the festival is a vibrant celebration of heritage, resilience and excellence. Through the Chief Dakamela Achievers Awards, we honour outstanding community champions while showcasing traditional music, dance, storytelling and indigenous cuisine,” he said.
He said that Nkayi’s culture is not only a source of pride but also a powerful driver of development and identity within traditional communities.
Looking ahead, Chief Dakamela revealed plans for the 2026 festival to coincide with the Easter weekend, promising an expanded programme and greater international participation.
“We’re preparing to make the 2026 edition a marquee event on Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar,” he said. —
@mthabisi_mthire
