Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
Long-distance walker, poet and musician Dr Gasolo, born Prince Mazilankatha Ncube, has been appointed the official cultural brand ambassador for the 2026 Makokoba Music Festival, a role he says aligns with his long-standing advocacy for Bulawayo’s creative economy and community development.
The announcement comes as organisers gear up for what they describe as the biggest edition of the festival yet, scheduled for September 18 and 19 under the theme “Home Grown”.
Rather than positioning itself as a conventional music showcase, the Makokoba Music Festival is being developed as a community-driven platform aimed at stimulating Bulawayo’s creative economy by creating opportunities for local artistes, youth, vendors and small businesses.
In accepting the ambassadorial role, Dr Gasolo said the festival reflects the kind of cultural platform he has long envisioned, one that extends beyond performance to deliver meaningful social and economic impact.
“I’ve walked for Bulawayo’s artistes before, and I’ll do it again. Makokoba Music Festival is what I’ve been asking for, not just a stage, but a community platform. A festival that activates local vendors, celebrates our youth, puts Bulawayo’s artistes in front of thousands, and says clearly: the creative economy of this city is real, and it is growing.”
Known for using art and movement as tools for cultural preservation and community engagement, Dr Gasolo’s appointment is expected to strengthen the festival’s vision of celebrating Bulawayo’s artistic identity while widening grassroots participation.
As part of his ambassadorial duties, he will embark on a symbolic journey dubbed “The Dr Gasolo Walk to Makokoba”, a long-distance walk from Matshetsheni in Gwanda to the festival grounds in Bulawayo ahead of the event.
The walk will culminate in a live performance upon his arrival at the festival.
“In the days before the festival, I’ll walk from Matshetsheni, Gwanda, to the Makokoba festival grounds. The walk now has a destination, and when I arrive, I am performing,” he said.
Festival organisers say this year’s theme, “Home Grown,” reflects a renewed focus on nurturing local talent and encouraging communities to invest in their own creative industries.
Makokoba, Bulawayo’s oldest township, remains a historic cultural hub that has produced generations of musicians, writers, actors and sports figures who have shaped Zimbabwe’s creative identity.
Beyond entertainment, the festival aims to create an economic ecosystem where local entrepreneurs and vendors benefit directly while emerging artistes gain exposure to larger audiences.
