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Trust Khosa
HABANE Stadium in Esigodini, Matabeleland South, will come under the spotlight tonight when it hosts the 2024 SADC Anti-Sanctions Musical Concert featuring an array of Zimbabwe’s top performers.
The gala, which is a solidarity platform for the removal of unilateral sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the West and its allies, is being organised by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services.
It is running under the theme, “Embracing Innovation Towards Vision 2030: The Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions”.
The gala coincides with the SADC Anti-Sanctions Day commemorated on October 25 each year.
As has become the norm, top musicians provide entertainment to mark the day.
In line with the Government’s mantra of decentralising national events, this year’s edition will be held in Esigodini to ensure that no one is left behind.
Revered jazz crooner Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele and Chief Hwenje will headline the event.
Sungura game-changer Mark Ngwazi, Jah Master, Iyasa Godolude, Clement Magwaza, Sasha Amadube, Manine, Mzoe 7, Madlela Skhobokhobo, Simon Mutambi, Jah Signal and Mbare Chimurenga Choir are part of the line-up.
Hype-man DJ Fantan and his Chillspot clique of DJ Levels and Ribhe are also expected to add variety at the musical extravaganza.
Gala coordinator and principal information officer in the Ministry of Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Lenex Mandipaza said it was all systems go.
“The stage has been set for this year’s Anti-Sanctions Gala taking place in Esigodini in line with the Government’s move to take national events to all the provinces.
“The feedback is overwhelming while all the artistes in the line-up are raring to go.
“We are going to do a sound check in the afternoon while the main event will start at 6pm and end the following morning,” he said.
Mandipaza was also impressed by the commitment being shown by musicians from the region.
“We have included quite a number of artistes from Matabeleland who are all willing to come and perform at the event.
“This is a perfect opportunity for them to showcase themselves at this big platform.
“We expect thousands of fans to come and witness the gala in Esigodini.”
He said admission will be free, ensuring that fans get an opportunity to watch their favourite artists on stage.
Judging by the line-up, fans attending the gala and those watching on television and online will be treated to a 12-hour non-stop musical extravaganza.
The show is special for Marabini, who is celebrating 34 years in the music industry.
He started his career in the area where he has since established himself as a musical guru.
Chief Hwenje promised fireworks at the gala.
“I am ready to do national duty and right now I am already in Bulawayo.
“I promise a show of a lifetime to the people of Esigodini and it will be my third time performing in the area.
“I cannot afford to disappoint my fans who have always supported us,” he said.
Not to be outdone is Ngwazi, who has become a regular performer at national events.
“The boys are ready and those at home or watching us online will definitely enjoy.
“It feels nice to be performing in Esigodini and I can only thank God for this talent.
“Being given such an opportunity to perform in Esigodini shows that event organisers now have faith in us,” he said.
Mutambi who hails from Beatrice added:
“I have been blessed to be part of the line-up performing in Esigodini.
“I cannot remember the last time I was there but I enjoyed the vibe and everything in Esigodini.
“Fans should brace for old and new stuff as we are more than ready as a camp.”
Today’s commemorations were as a result of the SADC Heads of State and Government summit held in Tanzania on August 5 2019.
In a show of unity, the regional bloc resolved to stand with and by Zimbabwe in calling for the unconditional removal of the illegal sanctions.
After some resolutions and discussions, October 25 was set aside as the Anti-Sanctions Day.
A series of activities usually mark the day with petitions being signed.
Entertainment wise, the SADC Anti-Sanctions Musical Concert has become a permanent feature.
Musicians have been gathering together with senior Government officials and fans to mark this day, which is meant to change the lives of Zimbabweans for the better.
Online Reporter
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