Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
DECORATED dub-poet and arts administrator, Albert Nyathi, says the ongoing Culture Month celebrations have fuelled artistic expression, which should be maintained at all times.
The cultural ambassador said this year’s edition was special because the main launch has been set for Bulawayo, a revered arts hub in Zimbabwe.
“The Culture Month means a lot to us, especially to the people of Bulawayo, which has remained the cultural capital,” he said.
“The city has always been hosting a series of cultural activities over the years, and recently we hosted the Dakamela Festival.
“There are several other cultural activities that have been taking place in the City of Kings lately, and it’s always buzzing.
“It’s also good news to us, because the main Culture Month launch will take place here in Bulawayo—a clear indication that we have been respected as a culture capital.”
Nyathi, who turns 64 in November, revealed he is ready for the Culture Month’s main launch at Barbourfields Stadium on May 21.
The launch, which coincides with UNESCO’s World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, commemorated annually on May 21, will run under the theme: ‘Diversity and creativity: Advancing Vision 2030 through cultural expressions.’
Nyathi also revealed he was proud to be a culture-abiding Zimbabwean creative hailing from Bulawayo.
“This is the proudest moment of my life as I celebrate my culture.“As people from Bulawayo, we are proud to be hosting such an event.
“Without culture, we are basically nothing under the sun.We can’t shun our culture if we want to be respected out there.”
The “Senzeni na?” hit-maker said international tours have not only given him exposure, but also helped him appreciate his identity.
“I have performed in several parts of the world, and that experience has opened my eyes to celebrate who we are.
“As we mark the Culture Month, this is another perfect opportunity for us to celebrate other regional heavyweights like Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the late Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi, and Black Umfolosi, who have made it big out there.These acts have always carried themselves with distinction, and wherever they travelled, they didn’t disappoint at all, which made them genuine cultural ambassadors.“On that note, I have learned that culture remains the foundation of artistic expression, which is needed to tell our stories and where we come from as one people.”
Last year’s Culture Month launch was held in Chiredzi, where the President presided over the event.
Hordes of villagers filled Rusununguko Clinic Open Grounds under Chief Tsovani in Chiredzi.
For this year, there is a strong call for the Lowveld community to fully embrace this important cultural initiative.
After the main launch, attention will shift to a series of events, including the indigenous languages and cultural dialogue week.
Last year, it took place in the fourth week of the month.
Following the national launch in Bulawayo, Culture Month celebrations will also be held in all 10 provinces, with the provincial launches officiated by Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
Thus, the Culture Month launch not only highlights the rich artistic heritage of Bulawayo, but also serves as a platform for fostering collaboration and creativity within the community. By actively participating in this celebration, the community can ensure that its cultural contributions receive the recognition they deserve.
Creatives like Nyathi, the late Cont Mhlanga, Iyasa, and Black Umfolosi have been at the forefront of promoting African culture.
derick.khumalo