Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
POET Dr Gasolo, best known for his celebrated “Long Walk to Success” from Gwanda to Bulawayo, embarked on yet another extraordinary journey, walking for two days from Bulawayo to Chief Mbusi Dakamela’s homestead in eBabambeni, Nkayi, Matabeleland North, to attend the fourth edition of the Imiklomela kaDakamela Cultural Festival, held from April 3 to 6.
Departing Bulawayo on April 1 at 2:30PM, Dr Gasolo covered close to 200 kilometres, arriving at koDakamela on April 3 at 10:30AM. The demanding journey entailed 37 hours of walking, punctuated by six hours of rest.
Reflecting on the gruelling trek, Dr Gasolo said: “Walking for the first time over such a distance had its ups and downs, but I had to complete this journey in honour of Chief Dakamela for the work he is doing — uplifting the Nkayi community and bringing people together through this festival.”
He recounted several challenges encountered along the way, particularly poor road conditions that caused him to stumble into potholes at night, resulting in a blister on his right foot. A difficult encounter at Cross Matapa further tested his resolve, as unfriendly shopkeepers forced him to walk from Cross Matapa to Bona without food, surviving only on water provided by passing motorists heading to the festival.
Despite these hardships, Dr Gasolo’s arrival at koDakamela was met with warmth and celebration.
“The reception was amazing. Being part of the festival in this way allowed me to network along the journey and connect with people from different walks of life. Even now, I’m receiving messages and calls from potential partners who might help grow the Dr Gasolo brand. I’m already looking forward to walking again next year to raise cultural awareness through this walk,” he said.
At the festival, Dr Gasolo was honoured with an award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the arts and cultural industry. As the founder of the Maskand’ Emuntwini Movement and the Abathwali Bophahla Cultural Centre, he has played a pivotal role in shaping cultural expression and empowering emerging creatives.
“Winning this award means a lot to me. It’s the first time I’ve been recognised for my work, despite having groomed others who have won awards before. This accolade has given me exposure and allowed me to reflect on my contributions to the community, arts and cultural sector,” Dr Gasolo said.
The Imiklomela kaDakamela Cultural Festival, hosted by Chief Dakamela, continues to grow in prominence, attracting cultural enthusiasts from across Zimbabwe, Southern Africa and the diaspora, while celebrating African unity, heritage and the enduring spirit of Ubuntu.
