Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
TEN years ago – a new sound rose from the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe.
Clear, confident and determined to connect – that sound belonged to Diamond FM – a radio station that began as a metropolitan voice in Mutare, but has since grown into one of the most influential regional broadcasters in the country.
From its first broadcast on May 16, a decade ago, the radio station set out to do more than simply fill the airwaves. It sought to tell authentic local stories, amplify community voices, and provide a platform where culture, information and entertainment could meet.
Over the years, that mission has, not only endured, but expanded, reaching audiences across Manicaland and into neighbouring provinces, while also connecting with listeners around the world through digital platforms.
Today, Diamond FM stands as a testament to growth, resilience and community connection.
What started as a local station has transformed into a fully-fledged regional powerhouse under the Zimpapers banner, reflecting the changing dynamics of broadcasting and the increasing importance of localised yet far-reaching media.
While the official launch date remains May 16, the entire month has been dedicated to commemorating a decade of impact.
To mark this milestone, the radio station is taking a bold and symbolic step.
Instead of hosting its traditional anniversary celebrations in Mutare at familiar venues such as Manicaland Agricultural Showgrounds or Mutare Sports Club, the station is moving the festivities to Rusape, in Makoni District.
This decision reflects both its growth and commitment to inclusivity — bringing the celebration closer to the communities that have been part of its journey.
At the heart of this celebration is a major musical concert set for May 23, promising to be one of the most vibrant events in the region this year.
Set against the backdrop of a scenic lakeside venue, the event is designed to be a full experience that blends music, leisure and community engagement. Station manager, Jabulani Mangezi, in an interview this week, said the event is a celebration of longevity and an evolution of how a station rooted in one city grew to embrace an entire region and beyond.
“We are excited because this May is our anniversary month. The 16th of May is actually the day when Diamond FM was launched 10 years ago. So to commemorate that, we are holding a musical concert, a musical show in Rusape in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of not leaving no one and no place behind, so we are making sure that as a regional radio station, we live up to that. It is also a sign of our growth. We started as a metropolitan radio station 10 years ago, but now we are a fully-fledged regional radio station covering the whole of Manicaland and also districts and provinces peripheral to Manicaland. We also have listeners internationally. To mark that, we decided that this year, instead of just hosting our celebratory show in Mutare — where we would usually go to Osborne, Manicaland Agricultural Show, Mutare Motoring Club, or Mutare Sports Club — we said, let us go and celebrate with the people of Makoni. We chose Makoni because it gives us the capacity to attract partygoers from Buhera, Nyanga, Mutare, and as far as Marondera.
“So we are calling on those who want to have a good time to come through and have fun with us on May 23. We have a robust and wonderful line-up of artistes and lots of activities. It is a lakeside venue, so there will be aquatic activities — boat rides, swimming, angling, and a lot more. There will be jumping castles for kids, braai, and drinks for those who like beer, as well as options for those who just want to relax with a cocktail by the lake. It will be a beautiful day at a majestic venue.
“We are calling out to the people of Mutare, the people of Manicaland, especially Makoni, and also those from bordering districts like Chikomba and Wedza, as well as Buhera, Nyanga, Mutare, and Marondera, to come through and celebrate with us,” he said.
Rusape’s selection as the host location is both practical and symbolic. Geographically, it serves as a central hub, making it easier for people from across the region to attend.
Socially, it represents a shift towards decentralising major events, ensuring that communities outside traditional urban centres are equally included in large-scale celebrations.
The event itself promises something for everyone. Music lovers can look forward to an exciting line-up of performers, carefully curated to reflect the diverse tastes of Diamond FM’s audience.
“We will announce names of artistes scheduled to perform at the event in due course. Families will find a welcoming environment with activities tailored for children, including jumping castles and open spaces to play. Adventure seekers can take advantage of the lakeside setting, enjoying boat rides, swimming and other aquatic experiences. Meanwhile, those seeking relaxation can unwind with refreshments in hand, soaking in the natural beauty and festive atmosphere,” he added.
Over the past decade, Diamond FM has navigated a rapidly changing media landscape, adapting to new technologies and shifting audience behaviours.
Its expansion into digital platforms has allowed it to transcend geographical boundaries, connecting with Zimbabweans in the diaspora and strengthening its role as a cultural bridge.
Yet, despite this growth, the station has remained grounded in its core mission, which is serving the community. The lakeside in Rusape is set to transform into a hub of music, celebration and connection — a fitting tribute to a station that has spent a decade bringing people together.
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