Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Harare-based Afro-fusion outfit Chitima Band emerged as the 2025 Chibuku Road to Fame national champions after outshining nine other provincial finalists at the competition’s silver jubilee celebrations at Gwanzura Stadium on Saturday.
The six-member group, formed in 2023 by students from the Zimbabwe College of Music, walked away with US$15 000 and a recording contract with a producer of their choice.
They will also receive sponsorship for an album launch after recording.
“This is a dream come true, our efforts have finally received recognition. We are over the moon,” said Chitima Band leader Charles Chakanetsa.
He added that the victory had given the group the visibility they had long been working for.
“We are not stopping now. As we celebrate this prestigious recognition, we will use it to make ourselves known and grow. “Thank you Chibuku, thank you Delta,” said Chakanetsa.
Matabeleland North’s Simuniziva Band and Mashonaland West’s All in One Band were the first and second runners-up, receiving US$10 000 and US$7 000 respectively.
The 25th anniversary celebration of Chibuku Road to Fame transformed Gwanzura Stadium into a hive of activity, with thousands of fans in attendance and more than five thousand following via live television. The 12-hour music marathon lived up to its billing, standing out as one of the most explosive editions of the national finals in the competition’s history.
Zimdancehall giant Winky D, the main act of the night, delivered a captivating set marked by powerful vocals, sing-along segments and lively interaction with fans.
His stage charisma and crowd connection reaffirmed his status as one of Zimbabwe’s most consistent performers.
The silver jubilee concert also featured top acts such as Killer T, Saintfloew, Feli Nandi, Travellers Band and Kweseka Band.
Surprise performances from Nisha Ts and Ndunge Yut added extra sparkle to the festivities, keeping the audience on their feet throughout the evening.
After 25 years of discovering and nurturing musical talent, organisers Delta Corporation marked the milestone in grand style with a dazzling fireworks display that lit up the Harare skyline.
The event breathed new life into the historic Gwanzura Stadium, reaffirming its place as one of the capital’s iconic entertainment venues.
Congratulations to the winners and want to thank our loyal consumers for the continued support.
This year marked a special milestone for us as the event celebrates 25 years of discovering and nurturing talent, in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ),” said Delta Corporation Marketing Director Irimayi Muzorewa.
This year’s ten provincial finalists were Core Vibes (Midlands), All in One (Mashonaland West), Simuniziva (Matabeleland North), Dab Band (Bulawayo), Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South), Afro Pulse (Masvingo), Mnenga Band (Manicaland), Jungle Foxes (Mashonaland East), Chitima Band (Harare) and DNA Band (Mashonaland Central).
The Chibuku Road to Fame silver jubilee proved to be a landmark event — a celebration of talent, resilience and Zimbabwe’s ever-growing musical heritage.
