Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
THE usually serene Mutare Showgrounds erupted into a kaleidoscope of music, lights, and joy last Saturday night as top Zimbabwean artistes lit up the city with breath-taking performances at the 22nd ZANU PF National People’s Conference Gala.
The high-energy music extravaganza, held as part of the 22nd ZANU PF People’s Conference hosted in Mutare, drew thousands of locals and visiting delegates who partied until the early hours of Sunday morning.
The night showcased a diverse range of traditional and modern sounds, making it an unforgettable celebration of Zimbabwean musical diversity.
The event featured a stellar line-up of some of the country’s most revered and iconic artistes — Sulumani Chimbetu, Jeys Marabini, Romeo Gasa, Mathias Mhere, Iyasa, Tambaoga, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Peter Moyo, Sasha Madhuve, Dino Mudondo, and the fan-favourite, ZPCS Band, among others.
As fireworks lit up the sky and fans waved flags and cellphones in unison, the atmosphere was electrifying.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Misheck Mugadza, described the gala as the “icing on the cake” of what had been a highly successful conference.
“The gala has been the perfect culmination of an unforgettable week in Manicaland. The past four days saw vibrant discussions, policy shaping, and reflection on our nation’s journey and aspirations.
“Tonight, we gathered in the spirit of unity and celebration. This beautiful convergence of music, dance, and togetherness is a reminder of our culture of peace and progress.
“I would like to sincerely thank His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, for the numerous developments he has championed in Manicaland — from infrastructure to agriculture, and empowerment initiatives.
“The people of Manicaland are forever grateful for this vision. Events like these are not just entertainment. They serve as powerful reminders of our shared identity, our resilience, and the potential we carry as Zimbabweans.
“I applaud our artistes, organisers, security forces, and everyone involved for putting together such a spectacular evening. Let us continue to build Zimbabwe — brick by brick — in unity and with joy,” said Mugadza
One of the night’s most heartfelt performances came from Sulumani Chimbetu, who stirred deep emotions among the crowd with a masterful rendition of his late father, Simon Chimbetu’s classic — “Ndarangarira Gamba”.
As the familiar opening chords rang out, an audible cheer swept through the showgrounds. Fans, young and old, stood, sang along, and waved in remembrance.
Chimbetu delivered the song with emotional depth, vocal finesse, and respectful reverence, evoking both nostalgia and national pride.
“We were honoured to be part of this historic gala. Every time we come to Mutare, the energy is unmatched. I can tell you now — we will definitely be back again soon,” said Sulu in an interview.
Revellers were also excited.
Prosper Maziti, a reveller from Chikanga, could not hide his excitement.
“It was magical! I have never seen so many of my favourite artistes performing on one stage, on the same night. From gospel to sungura to dancehall — it was everything.
“This has been the best night Mutare has seen in years,” he said.
Another fan, Tariro Gondo, added: “The vibe, the lighting, the organisation — it felt like a national festival. The ZPCS Band also brought something unique. They really entertained with pride and professionalism.”
While the music rocked the stage, bar owners and vendors cashed in on the all-night event, with sales booming from early evening Saturday until Sunday morning.
One bar owner, who requested anonymity, said they had never experienced such a profitable night in recent memory.
“We ran out of stocks twice. People came to enjoy, and they did so in their numbers. Beers, braai packs, soft drinks, and snacks were selling non-stop. It was brisk business — we had to call in extra hands to manage the crowds.
Such galas should become an annual tradition — it boosts local business and puts Mutare on the map. We thank the organisers for bringing the conference to our doorstep,” he said.
As the sun rose over Mutare on Sunday, some revellers were still dancing, while others made their way home — tired, but satisfied.
What began as a political conference ended as a musical carnival, leaving lasting memories and setting a high bar for future gatherings.
