Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena [email protected]
Poet, cultural activist and arts advocate Dr Gasolo, born Prince Mazilankatha Ncube, is set to celebrate the fifth anniversary of his flagship initiative, the Long Walk to Success, with another gruelling journey from his rural home in Matabeleland South to Bulawayo.
To mark the milestone, Dr Gasolo will embark on the 2026 edition of the walk from September 17 to 19, covering more than 100 kilometres from Matshatsheni in Gwanda to Bulawayo.
This year, the campaign will focus on improving educational opportunities for learners in rural communities. Dr Gasolo said he intends to use the initiative to raise awareness and mobilise support for six underprivileged schools in Ward 1 of Gwanda North constituency, with a goal of donating Starlink kits to enhance internet connectivity.
He believes access to the internet is key to bridging the digital divide and unlocking global learning opportunities for rural learners.
“This year’s focus is on bringing internet access to rural schools and opening doors to global educational opportunities for our children. Education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming communities, and connectivity is now an essential part of that journey,” he said.
Reflecting on the initiative’s fifth anniversary, Dr Gasolo said the Long Walk to Success has always been about inspiring people to pursue their dreams with courage, determination and unwavering belief in themselves.
“If I had listened to the ‘what ifs’, the Dr Gasolo Long Walk to Success would have ended before it began. All the lives this walk has touched would still be waiting. My brothers and sisters, I encourage all of you not to let fear or seemingly bad advice stop you from doing what you were sent to do here on earth,” said Dr Gasolo.
Over the years, the Long Walk to Success has evolved into a powerful symbol of resilience, perseverance and advocacy within Zimbabwe’s arts and cultural sector. Since its launch, the initiative has drawn attention to the challenges faced by artistes and creatives while championing the importance of arts and culture in national development. What started as a personal journey has grown into an annual movement that encourages communities, businesses and institutions to support local talent and invest in creative industries.
Along the route, Dr Gasolo interacts with communities, stages poetry performances and creates platforms for emerging artistes to showcase their talents and gain exposure.
Beyond promoting the arts, the initiative has also become a vehicle for addressing pressing social issues, including mental health awareness, youth empowerment and the fight against drug and substance abuse.
