Langalakhe Mabena, Sunday Life Reporter
A CENTURY of Highlanders FC deserves more than a final whistle. It calls for a party that brings together the music, dance, memories and unbreakable club pride that have made Bosso a Bulawayo institution for 100 years.
After a successful Highlanders FC Centenary Half Marathon last Saturday, the celebrations are heading for a musical climax, with the Bosso@100 Music Bash set to take over the Highlanders Club House on October 31.
The bash promises to be the grand celebration of a remarkable milestone, transforming the club’s home into a meeting place for football loyalists, music lovers and everyone who has been part of the Bosso story. It will be a night to trade football chants for musical choruses, celebrate generations of devotion and toast a club whose black-and-white colours have become woven into Bulawayo’s identity.
The line-up unveiled so far features Ramsey Kay and the Big Ray Band, Tshibilika music exponents Godolude and Mxolisi “Mr Bones”, as well as traditional musicians Evias Bhebhe and Gogo MaNkosi of the Dzibalemvula fame. More performers are expected to be announced during the week.
For the organisers, the bash is more than just another music show. It is an opportunity for Bosso supporters to celebrate their beloved club through the sounds and rhythms that define Bulawayo’s cultural identity.
One of the organisers, Mduduzi Mdlongwa of 3D Events, said preparations are at an advanced stage, with efforts focused on ensuring that supporters feel a strong sense of ownership of the centenary celebrations.
“We are pushing ahead with preparations for the Bosso@100 Music Bash, and I can say we are about 85 percent ready. We have been appealing to Highlanders fans to own the event through roadshows we have taken to different suburbs in Bulawayo, and the feedback has been positive.
“We have instilled upon the fans that this event belongs to them. It is their 100-year celebration, and they have to own the show. We are just a privileged generation to witness Bosso turning 100, and we have to make the most of it,” said Mdlongwa.
While mobilising resources has presented some challenges, Mdlongwa said they have made considerable progress, with support from the club and its partners helping to keep preparations on track.
“The challenges we have faced have largely been around resource mobilisation. For all these things to move, money is needed, and we have had some challenges. However, the club, through its partners, has helped us get this far.
“Bosso supporters should expect a lot of energy from the show. We have put in a lot of effort to mobilise resources and bring everything together for this celebration. They should expect fireworks, happy people and a free atmosphere,” he said.
Mdlongwa also dismissed speculation that South African musicians would feature on the bill, stressing that the event would be strictly a celebration of local talent.
Traditional musician Evias Bhebhe said being selected to perform at the centenary bash was both an honour and a privilege, given his longstanding attachment to Highlanders.
“I started following Highlanders when I was young, and I grew up embracing the culture of the team. I have even penned and sung songs in honour of Bosso, which shows that I have the team at heart.
“It is a great privilege and honour to be among those who will perform at the event. Being alive to celebrate Bosso’s centenary is a blessing from our ancestors and we should view ourselves as the
lucky generation,” he said.
Tshibilika musician Godolude is equally fired up, promising a high-energy performance as the club’s centenary celebrations reach their climax.
“Those who have watched me perform know that uGodolude ngeze energy. I am excited to be part of this milestone celebration, and I know my name will go down in history as one of the performers who played a role in helping Bosso celebrate 100 years.
“I urge people to come in their numbers as we celebrate Bosso’s achievements over the past 100 years through music and dance,” he said.
With the club’s centenary providing the backdrop, the Bosso@100 Music Bash is expected to bring together football loyalty and Bulawayo’s vibrant music culture in a fitting tribute to one of Zimbabwe’s most enduring sporting institutions.
