Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
A record-breaking crowd headlined the fourth edition of the Imiklomela kaDakamela Cultural Festival, with more than 9 000 attendees reportedly thronging Chief Mbusi Dakamela’s homestead in Nkayi, Matabeleland North, from April 3 to 5.
The festival, also known as the Chief Dakamela Achievers’ Awards, attracted cultural enthusiasts from across Zimbabwe, the Southern African region and the diaspora, marking a significant surge in popularity. Attendance was said to be double that of previous editions, firmly cementing the event’s growing stature on the cultural calendar.
To cater for the massive turnout, five beasts were slaughtered in a demonstration of generous hospitality.
The three-day cultural and tourism extravaganza brought together African royals, traditional chiefs, Government officials, creatives, members of the local business community and residents of Nkayi.
Among the distinguished guests were royals from the Zulu nation under King Misuzulu kaZwelithini. The delegation was led by Umntwana Thulani Zulu, the King’s official spokesperson (Somlomo), and included Umntwana Nkinobho Zulu, Umntwana Phumlani of the Nyonini royal house and Umntwana Jabulani from the eZulwini royal house.
They were accompanied by Izinduna Mncwango, Shandu and Mdlalose, as well as other members of the Zulu royal family and Amabutho, who showcased traditional praises during the festival.
Also among the esteemed guests was Her Royal Highness Princess Andile naBingweni Mabena of the Manala royal family in Mpumalanga, South Africa, under King Enock Makhosonke II Mabhena. In a symbolic gesture of honour, she presented Chief Dakamela with a royal blanket.
She was accompanied by Prince Ayanda Manala Sibindi, senior Princess Agnes Nomngoma Mabhena of the Manala-Mbongo Royal House — a sister to King Makhosonke II — and other members of the Mabena royal family.
The event further attracted prominent figures, including South African actor Dawn Thandeka King and renowned music composer, Mbuso Khoza. Other notable royals in attendance included Prince Kwazikwenkosi Zulu, Ndlunkulu Gopolang Lebakeng Zulu, Inkosi Yase MaNcubeni Nkosi Molefe, Dr Litha, Thembisile Mahuwa, Nkosi Mbokane, Prince Wandile Ngobese, Dr Themba Fakazi, Princess Pretty Mncube, Princess Lungile Mncube, Advocate Simphiwe Xaba and Ndumiso Ndlela, among others.
The Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Emily Jesaya, attended the festival as the guest of honour.
The celebrations also featured a rich array of cultural displays and exhibitions, with one of the standout highlights being the participation of the country’s oldest football club, Highlanders, as part of their centenary celebrations.
Artistes who performed across different segments of the festival included Indosakusa: The Morning Star, King Lion Express Band, uMaqhuzu, Novuyo Seagirl, Black Umfolosi, Bambanani Women Ensemble, Many Faces Band, Just Leo and Simuniziva Band, Imvimbi Arts, Gog’ Bekezela, among others.
The MCs delivered commendable performances, handling the pressure on stage with professionalism. Notable contributions came from Ntando Van Moyo, Doctor Cindy, MaNare, Mahlalela, Mahlabayithwale, Sicelo “Sibbs” Jamela, Zisco and Mabekwankosi kaJijiji.
Reflecting on the success of the event, host Chief Dakamela expressed delight at the festival’s growth, noting that it has now attained international recognition. He highlighted the overwhelming support received both locally and globally, describing it as a clear indication of the festival’s rising stature.
“The main roots of this festival were to bring together African people and celebrate our diverse cultures and Ubuntu, despite differences in ethnicity and race. This year’s edition was even bigger as we attracted people from all over Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania and Malawi. We even had visitors from the United Kingdom and other European countries.
“This festival has united people and reminded us that we are one despite boundaries. People embraced the spirit of Ubuntu, something our forefathers also upheld. It’s my wish to see even more people attending this festival, as the main goal is to bridge cultural gaps through networking and collaboration,” said Chief Dakamela.
Festival director Ntando Ndlovu said Imiklomela kaDakamela has evolved beyond being just a concept, describing it as a fully realised and successfully delivered experience with an international footprint.
He credited the festival’s success to a collective effort, praising both attendees and organisers for bringing the vision to life.
“Everyone who attended this year’s event played a significant role, as we achieved success together. The committee brought culture to life and united people across regions and borders, creating moments that will be remembered long after the stage lights went down.
“I salute our patron, Chief Dakamela, and the organisers. There were long days, high-pressure moments, and countless moving parts in ensuring the event was flawless. But through it all, the team showed resilience, commitment, and a shared belief in the vision, and that is what carried us across the finish line,” said Ndlovu.
He revealed that preparations for the 2027 edition are already underway, with the team seeking to build on this year’s achievements, address any shortcomings and deliver an even bigger and better festival.
Bongani Ndlovu