Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Revolutionary singer Chief Hwenje firmly believes that nothing beats loyalty and patriotism, especially with this year’s Heroes Musical Gala set to take place at Kujeke Growth Point on August 12 in Hwedza, Mashonaland East Province.
Born Admire Sanyanga Sibanda, the energetic performer has been a regular at State functions and he eagerly anticipates showcasing his talent in Hwedza next week.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Hwenje expressed his delight ahead of the event.
“I can’t wait to perform in Hwedza during the Heroes holidays because I understand the significance of this occasion.
“This will be my third time performing there and being invited to showcase my talents at this year’s Heroes Gala is an honour for me. I thoroughly enjoy performing at national events because they define who we are as a nation,” he emphasised.
The “ED Pfee” hitmaker assured fans that he would bring all his artistic flair to this prestigious event, which is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“To be honest, we are going to create new memories as I will be sampling songs from my upcoming album. One of these songs is called ‘Zvigananda’ from my album ‘Chiedza Chasamere,’ which is set to launch on the 30th of this month. Being a national event of this magnitude, I will also perform popular sing-along tracks, but I won’t hesitate to include my new songs as well.”
As a regular performer at national events, Hwenje feels honoured by this consistent recognition. “It’s not easy to be a regular performer at national events, as many people cherish this opportunity. I will simply go there and do my best. I have always valued being a regular entertainer at national events since childhood,” he remarked.
The Heroes Gala promises to be an exciting event, featuring a diverse line-up of artistes. Fellow musicians such as Simon Mutambi, Mark Ngwazi, Andy Muridzo, and Tendai Dembo are set to participate.
Other performers will include Clemence Magwaza and Allan Chimbetu. Energetic hype-man DJ Fantan, along with his Chillspot Family, including DJ Level and Ribhe, will also take the stage in Hwedza.
Reggae enthusiasts can look forward to Emmanuel “Mannex” Motsi’s performance, while songbird Shantel Sithole will bring her unique blend of Kanindo and comedy to the gathering.
In addition, Bulawayo’s sought-after rapper Mzoe 7, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Band and mbira princess Sasha Amadhuve will add to the event’s allure.
More artistes, especially from the hosting province, are expected to join the line-up, ensuring that the community has the opportunity to celebrate their national heroes through song and dance. Judging by the line-up, this year’s event will be more than just a celebration, as the country’s household names will showcase their talents under one roof.
Over the years, the annual Hwedza Arts Festival, held every Christmas Day thanks to Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire, has become a cherished source of joy.
The festival brings together top musicians to celebrate Christmas Day and the same spirit will be rekindled on August 12, when the spacious Kujeke Grounds hosts the Heroes Musical Gala. This event will serve as an early Christmas present for the community.
With a star-studded lineup performing under one roof, Hwedza will be buzzing on August 12.
Known for its hospitality, the area is fortunate to host this year’s event. It should also be mentioned that Hwedza played a pivotal role in the liberation struggle. A nursery of revolutionary figures, Hwedza is remembered for nurturing both living and departed heroes and heroines.
After all has been said and done, this is the perfect opportunity for all the artistes in the line-up to showcase their talents on a national level. Over the years, music has proven to be a balm and a solution for honouring our legends.
This year’s upcoming Heroes Gala is undoubtedly one of the events not to be missed as we pay tribute to our heroes.
It comes at a time when the Government has decentralised national events.
Last year’s Heroes Gala, held in Bikita, attracted thousands of fans and revitalised Nyika Growth Point, as the nation celebrated its heroes and heroines. With headliners like Ngwazi, Muridzo and Dembo, the event left a lasting impression.
National galas have also been successfully hosted in remote locations such as Murambinda Growth Point in Buhera, Mt Darwin, Dotito Growth Point, and Gokwe’s Nembudziya Business Centre.
