Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A NIGHT of mature music, celebration, reflection and warm hospitality awaits the people of Mhondoro as they prepare to host this year’s Heroes Gala.
The event will be held at Chemhanza Grounds, nestled in the heart of Mubaira Growth Point in Mashonaland West, where thousands are expected to gather on August 11 to honour Zimbabwe’s living and departed heroes through music and entertainment.
After weeks of speculation, Mhondoro has finally earned the privilege of hosting the prestigious annual extravaganza, one of the country’s biggest commemorative celebrations held in honour of the nation’s heroes. A star-studded line-up featuring Braveman “Baba Harare” Chizvino, Peter “Young Igwe” Moyo and Simon Mutambi is expected to set Chemhanza Grounds alight, promising an unforgettable evening of entertainment for revellers from across the province and beyond.
Mark Ngwazi, Romeo Gasa, Clement Magwaza, and Bio Mudimba will add yet another sungura spark to this year’s edition.
The quartet has been doing its best to represent the new breed of sungura stars with zeal and aplomb.
Mutare’s finest gospel divas, Dorcas Moyo and Agatha Murudzwa, are also part of the star-studded line-up.
The praise and worship singers rarely fail to impress at national events.
Zimdancehall lovers will have plenty to look forward to with the inclusion of the energetic Jah Master. Not to be outdone is rapper Mzoe 7, undoubtedly the pride of Bulawayo.
With Mhondoro renowned as a hotbed of mbira musicians, Sasha Amadhuve, born Miriam Lushomwa and her counterpart Andy Muridzo have also been included in the line-up.
The duo is well known for promoting Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through music. Revolutionary singer Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, together with the acclaimed LMG Choir, will also grace the stage. Atenda Chinx, daughter of the late liberation hero Cde Dickson Chingaira Makoni, will be rubbing shoulders with some of Zimbabwe’s biggest musical stars.
At just 20 years old and backed by the Barrel of Peace band, Atenda has already proved she is well ahead of her generation.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services deputy director Hymn Mureru said preparations for the gala had gone according to plan. He urged fans to turn up in their numbers for the free event and enjoy a night of memorable entertainment.
“Preparations for the Heroes Gala have been going on well, and this year we will be holding it on August 11 at Chemhanza Grounds in Mubaira Growth Point,” he said.
“The event is scheduled to begin at 6pm and continue late into the night after the Defence Forces celebrations at Rufaro Stadium.
“We will be celebrating the gains brought about by our heroes, and we can guarantee an exciting show.
“We have assembled a top-drawer line-up of musicians for the event.”
Mureru said the response from the people of Mhondoro had been overwhelming.
“This is the first time Mhondoro will be hosting such an event in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no place and no one behind.
“People from Mhondoro and surrounding areas now have the opportunity to enjoy performances by some of the country’s biggest stars without travelling long distances.
“We are looking forward to a successful event that will certainly bring joy to the people of the area.”
It should be mentioned that entertainment is guaranteed, with all major music genres, including gospel, well represented.
Mutare’s celebrated gospel singer Dorcas Moyo had this to say:
“I always give my all whenever I get the opportunity to perform at such prestigious occasions, and I have never let down my fans or the organisers,” said the award-winning singer.
“What I enjoy most about these events is that we are given the freedom to express ourselves without hesitation.
“We are allowed to minister freely without limitations, and I cannot thank the organisers enough.
“I urge fans to come out in their numbers and celebrate with us in unity.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Tshibilika exponent Clement Magwaza, who also performed at last year’s Heroes Gala in Wedza. “It is always a great honour to be invited to perform at such a prestigious national event.
“I am a proud Zimbabwean, and I cannot afford to disappoint the fans on such a significant occasion.
“It is not only an opportunity to showcase our talent but also to represent our country.”
Last year’s Heroes Gala in Wedza was hailed as a resounding success, and organisers are hopeful of replicating that atmosphere in Mhondoro. With a stellar cast of performers, heightened anticipation among residents, and a national celebration honouring the country’s liberation heroes, all roads now lead to Chemhanza Grounds.
For one memorable night, Mubaira Growth Point will become the heartbeat of Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene, providing fitting celebrations to accompany the nation’s tribute to its heroes.
It promises to be a night where unforgettable memories will be made.
