Marvelous Moyo Gwanda Correspondent
THE just ended Matabeleland South Provincial Arts Festival has been described as a huge success. The three-day event which started on Thursday and ended on Saturday, saw a number of groups and individuals showcasing their talents to the hundreds of people that attended the rainbow province’s annual event held in the provincial capital, Gwanda.
Some of the events were held at Gwanda District Club while others were at Jahunda Community Hall.
One of the outstanding groups was Ghetto Smuffs’ whose performance left the crowd asking for more.
The group’s dance moves were so impressive that even the guest of honour, Chief Nyangazonke Ndiweni was forced to dig deep into his pockets to give the group a token of appreciation.
Other artistes, among them Clement “Magwaza” Ncube, who seems to be
the ‘man of the moment’ and has a huge following in the mining town, also gave the crowds a good treat.
Mpumelelo Shining Stars, which had just returned from its tour of South Africa also justified its invitation by the neighbouring country.
The other groups such as Zezani High School, Ebony, Bolamba and Inqama Yophondo also proved that the province has abundant talent which if properly supported could be turned into a vibrant arts industry.
In his address, Chief Nyangazonke encouraged artistes to take arts as business that should generate income to sustain their livelihoods.
“As the chiefs we will continue to support the arts industry in every way possible.
“We also invite the business community to chip in and support our artistes,” he said.
More than 300 artistes participated at this year’s event.



