Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
THE 2025 edition of the Hurungwe Arts Festival (HAF) begins today in the farming town of Karoi.
The arts fiesta, which will feature local, regional and international artists, will run until Saturday.
This year’s edition is the eighth since the festival was introduced. HAF founder and executive director, Joel Zilala, said all the confirmed international and regional artists scheduled to perform were now in the country for the event at Chikangwe Hall.
The event is expected to bring a diverse range of artistic expressions, including music, theatre, dance and visual arts into play.
Some of the artists scheduled to perform include Canada-based Tafadzwa Matamba, who plays mbira and hails from Hurungwe.
“I am prepared to share the stage with both regional and local musicians and artists through diversity during the Hurungwe Arts Festival,” Matamba said.
“My performances are based on Zimbabwean cultural heritage and mbira music speaks of our traditional customs.”
Other performers include Jindi, a Sudanese artist living in Dubai, who blends his traditional culture with international genres.
Bhek’zizwe from South Africa and internationally acclaimed Jean Gardy from Canada also headline the event.
From the local side, fast-rising Afro-Jazz diva, Prudence Muchada, better known as Mama Africa, is expected to rub shoulders with the regional and international acts.
Zilala said the 2025 year’s festival will feature a talented lineup of regional and international artists, including Msanza-Arts-simple Theatre from Zambia, innovative theatre productions that push the boundaries of storytelling and performance.
“We have Cosca Films (Zambia) showcasing the best of Zambian film talent and creativity, Jah Luther from Zambia, a renowned musician known for his soulful voice and captivating stage presence, is part of artists coming through and Uncle DEEZO also from Zambia who is a celebrated artiste and performer brings a unique blend of music and storytelling to the stage,” said Zilala.
“There is also going to be time for networking for industry professionals, artists and like-minded individuals. There will be a vibrant and festive atmosphere that celebrates the arts,” he said.
Karoi Town Council public relations manager, Precious Nharara, said the event was going to liven up the town.
Online Reporter