Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
BULAWAYO is set to explode with vibrant colour, rhythm, and celebration today as thousands from across Zimbabwe gather at Barbourfields Stadium for this year’s Culture Month commemorations, a premier national event honouring the nation’s rich heritage, diversity, and identity.
President Mnangagwa will preside over the commemorations, which are set to bring together traditional leaders, Government officials, artistes, cultural groups, exhibitors and communities from different parts of the country in a vibrant showcase of indigenous traditions, music, dance, food and art.
The event comes as the Second Republic continues to promote culture as a pillar of national identity, social cohesion and economic development through the decentralisation of major national programmes and celebrations.
Preparations for the commemorations gathered momentum in recent days, with exhibitors setting up stands and artists conducting final rehearsals ahead of performances expected to light up Barbourfields Stadium.
Visitors are expected to witness traditional dances, indigenous music performances, cultural exhibitions, food displays and artistic showcases reflecting Zimbabwe’s diverse cultural heritage.
In an interview yesterday, Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, said all logistical arrangements for the event had been finalised.
“We are fully prepared and excited as Bulawayo to host this year’s Culture Month commemorations. We are inviting people from all corners of Zimbabwe to come and celebrate with us as we honour and appreciate our rich cultural diversity and heritage,” she said.
Minister Ncube said culture remained central to preserving national identity and promoting unity among Zimbabweans.
“Culture tells us who we are. It preserves our values, traditions and history and provides a foundation for future generations. Events like these allow us to appreciate our roots while promoting unity among people from different backgrounds,” she said.
Minister Ncube urged members of the public attending the celebrations to conduct themselves responsibly and uphold the spirit of Ubuntu.
“As we gather for this important national occasion, I urge everyone to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid criminal activities or any form of behaviour that may disturb peace and order,” she said.
“This should be a joyful and peaceful celebration where families, communities and visitors can come together and enjoy the festivities safely. Let us demonstrate the values of Ubuntu and respect that our cultures teach us.”
Minister Ncube said peaceful conduct during the commemorations would help ensure the event reflects the dignity and values associated with Zimbabwean traditions and heritage.
She also commended President Mnangagwa for advancing the devolution agenda through the decentralisation of major national programmes and events.
“We would like to sincerely thank His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, for ensuring that major national events are spread across provinces. This gives real meaning to the devolution concept and ensures all provinces benefit economically and socially,” she said.
“For many years, major national activities were concentrated in a few places, but through devolution, we are seeing opportunities being brought closer to communities and provinces.”
Minister Ncube said hosting national events stimulates economic activity through increased business for transport operators, hotels, restaurants, vendors and informal traders.
She noted that rotating national commemorations among provinces was also helping communities showcase their uniqueness while benefiting from infrastructure development and tourism activity associated with hosting such events.
Artists and exhibitors preparing for the commemorations also expressed excitement over participating in the celebrations.
One of the exhibitors and performers, Mr Lewis Ndlovu of Drums of Peace, said the commemorations provided an important platform for promoting Zimbabwean culture and preserving indigenous traditions.
Mr Ndlovu said cultural festivals also create opportunities for artistes and communities to exchange ideas and experiences.
“As artistes, we are always happy when we get platforms that allow us to engage with people and showcase our work. Culture brings people together regardless of language or background,” he said.
Mr Ndlovu said preserving culture was essential in ensuring future generations remain connected to their roots in an increasingly globalised world.
Culture Month commemorations are held annually as part of national efforts to celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich traditions and cultural diversity while promoting social cohesion, unity and national identity.
