Creatives to converge for strategic growth talks

LAST year, creatives from different industries assembled at a creators hub in Bulawayo for the inaugural Magitare Confluence, an innovative gathering focused on the creative economy, bringing together artistes, entrepreneurs, technologists, and thought leaders from diverse fields.

This year, that tradition will continue with renewed vigour. Running from March 2 to 7 under the theme, “Inclusive Growth through Collaboration, Kuvaka Pamwe, Ukukhula Okuhlanganisayo”, the week promises a dynamic exploration of Africa’s creative potential, merging thought leaders from fashion, music, heritage, digital innovation and women’s leadership.

The Magitare Confluence 2026 takes centre stage on March 4, at the same venue, forming a pivotal part of the British Council’s 3rd annual Creative Economy Week Zimbabwe (CEWZ).

Curated by guitarist and cultural catalyst Tariro Chaniwa, known professionally as Tariro NeGitare, the Confluence aims to build on last year’s success, fostering collaboration, inspiring creativity, and critically examining the intersections of creativity, technology and business.

“The Magitare Confluence is more than just a summit; it’s a strategic intersection. We’re deliberately bringing together business leaders, Government officials, tech innovators, and creative entrepreneurs because sustainable growth in our sector demands this kind of cross-pollination.

“This year’s theme, ‘Inclusive Creativity and Collaboration’, is our guiding principle — ensuring diverse voices are heard, and community participation is central,” said Tariro NeGitare.

The Confluence programme is packed with insightful sessions designed to unpack the theme. Proceedings, expertly guided by MC Nanzelelo Ndlovu, kick off in the morning with opening remarks from Tariro NeGitare, setting the stage for a day focused on diversity, community and cross-sector partnerships.

The British Council will set the context thereafter, outlining their initiatives and funding opportunities aimed at promoting inclusivity in the arts, supporting under-represented artistes, and enhancing national artistic development through collaboration.

A significant highlight will follow with a keynote address by Bulawayo’s Mayor, David Coltart, on “Building Creative Economies Through Inclusivity”. Mayor Coltart is expected to delve into the crucial role of local Government in fostering a diverse creative landscape, shaping supportive policies, and driving community engagement, followed by a Q&A session.

The conversation then turns to foundational elements with an open discussion hosted by Gilmore Qhawe Khumalo, aka “Gilmore Tee”. Focusing on “Culture and Heritage in a Modern Context”, featuring Chief Mbusi Dakamela, the session will explore the vital role of indigenous cultures in the creative economy, how heritage inspires innovative collaborations, and strategies for community participation in preserving cultural identities while fostering creativity.

Financing the future takes precedence thereafter as Tino Kambasha from the National Venture Fund presents on “Investing in Diversity: The Future of Venture Capital”.

This session promises insights into how venture capital can strategically support diverse creative projects aligned with national visions for inclusive entrepreneurship.

Sibo Muteyiwa from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe will address the transformative power of technology. His presentation, “AI and Information Technology:

Transforming Creative Industries”, will dissect technology’s impact on creativity, the necessity for cross-sector collaboration, and how AI can amplify diverse voices within the creative economy, alongside outlining Potraz’s role in this development.

Post-lunch, a fireside chat hosted by Gilmore Tee will bring together personal perspectives. Local creative entrepreneur Saimon Mambazo Phiri, Silenkosi Moyo, who is the manager at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, and Chipo Kanyumbu from the British Council will share their journeys, discuss empowering marginalised voices, and underscore the importance of community-driven initiatives and strategies for “Breaking Barriers” to inclusivity.

The afternoon is set to shift into practical mode with an interactive workshop. Facilitated collectively, the “Co-Creating Inclusive Solutions” session will introduce the SoCreative eLearning course and provide a unique opportunity for speakers to engage directly with participants in breakaway rooms for one-on-one discussions.

The Confluence will conclude with closing remarks and a vital call to action, urging participants to translate the day’s insights into tangible steps within their communities and industries. — @MbuleloMpofu