Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
UGANDA, the home of comedy queen Anne Kansiime, is set to host Zimbabwe’s rising star as Bulawayo comedian Frank Chirisa takes to the stage at the Marabou Laugh Festival from September 2 to 4.
The event, to be held at the newly opened Donel’s Bistro and Lounge in Ntinda, Kampala, will showcase a stellar line-up of African comedy heavyweights. Chirisa will perform alongside Ugandan favourites Patrick Salvado, Pablo, Anne Kansiime and Daniel Omara, as well as South Sudan’s Akau Jambo, in a celebration of humour that unites comedians from five African nations.
The Marabou Laugh Festival marks an exciting chapter for Ugandan comedy, with over 20 shows featured on its official programme.
For Chirisa, the invitation represents a significant milestone in his growing international career.
“I’m incredibly excited about these doors that continue to open; all the glory goes to God. Sharing the stage with some of Africa’s finest comedians will bring out the best in me. I’m also a huge fan of Dr Hillary Okello, and I can’t wait for this experience,” said Chirisa.
He added that the performance in Uganda is part of a broader plan.
“Uganda will connect me to Western and Eastern Africa, which means I can share the Zimbabwean story on larger platforms and move closer to my Netflix dream,” he said.
The Marabou Laugh Festival is just the beginning of a packed schedule for Chirisa. Immediately after Uganda, he will head to the Eswatini International Comedy Festival, further strengthening his regional presence.
Simultaneously, Chirisa is launching a national comedy tour titled “Frankly Speaking”. The tour begins on September 17 in Masvingo and continues on September 19 at Chinhoyi University of Technology, with Nust scheduled for October and more dates to follow.
For his hometown, he has something special in store.
“In Bulawayo, I’m planning 10 to 15 intimate shows later this year for small audiences of around 30 people each,” he revealed.
The tour is expected to run for two to three years, as Chirisa works towards sharing his story with the world. — @MbuleloMpofu
