Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
CHIEF Dakamela of Nkayi, Matabeleland North, has revealed that this year’s edition of Imiklomela KaDakamela, also known as the Chief Dakamela Achievers’ Awards, will focus on rural development, as he encouraged businesspeople and corporates to tap into the business opportunities available in rural areas.
Through such an initiative, Chief Dakamela said it would fast track development in marginalised communities, with both corporates and local communities benefitting from sustained investment in rural areas.
This year’s awards will be held at Chief Dakamela’s homestead in Nkayi from April 3 to 6.
“Preparations for this year’s event have already started, and we have made this known to the public early to give people ample time to digest, diarise and prepare well ahead of the cultural festival.
“By doing this, we want to conscientise the public about the event and what is at stake. It is a three-day event, so it is important that people know what is happening on all the days in order to experience the full vibe of the cultural gathering,” he said.
With Imiklomela KaDakamela recognised as one of the events driving rural tourism, Chief Dakamela said organisers were determined to live up to the status bestowed on the festival by the Ministry of Tourism, and to prove that Nkayi is a prime rural destination for tourists eager to experience authentic African culture.
“This edition will be used to preach the gospel of development, as we are open to developing our community through various business and empowerment initiatives, working together with interested businesspeople and institutions.
“We encourage those interested in investing in rural development to be part of this festival, as we will host a seminar that will focus on discussions around how best to tap into the business opportunities available in Nkayi,” said Chief Dakamela.
He hailed the Government for its focus on rehabilitating and developing major rural roads, particularly in Matabeleland North, noting that visible progress was being made and that improved road networks, once completed, would play a significant role in connecting people and stimulating rural development and investment.
“We have noted major developments in the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Nkayi Road, and I would say we are heading in a positive direction because we can see work taking place on the ground. We hope that by April, significant progress will have been achieved.
“About 27 kilometres from Inyathi towards Nkayi have already been completed, and we appeal to contractors and the local rural district council to work together to fast track construction, as this will make it easier for visitors travelling to Nkayi to attend the awards, ensuring a smoother travel experience,” said Chief Dakamela.
With the awards coinciding with the Easter weekend, Chief Dakamela said the timing would work to their advantage, as organisers anticipate attracting visitors from across Zimbabwe and beyond.
Imiklomela KaDakamela were established in 2023 and are designed to honour outstanding individuals and institutions for their contributions to society while they are still alive.
The awards celebrate excellence in disciplines such as music, arts, sports, entertainment, business, promotion of tradition and culture, as well as community service.
Some of the notable recipients of the awards include legendary poet Albert Nyathi, Professor Solwayo Ngwenya, Iyasa director Innocent Dube, historian Arnold Nkala, Chief Mathema, Chief Thulani Jubane and philanthropist Virgie Ncube, among others.
