Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RENOWNED veteran poet and philanthropist Albert Nyathi, has announced that this year’s edition of the Inkaba Festival will serve as a platform for Zimbabweans based in the United Kingdom to celebrate, preserve and rekindle their cultural heritage.
The much-anticipated festival will take place on August 3 in London and August 9 in Birmingham.
Alongside Nyathi, the festival will showcase a host of talented artistes, including Progress Chipfumo, a maestro of both traditional and contemporary music, as well as the soulful Busi Mhlanga, Mantongande and Dr Queen Patience.
Each artiste brings their unique flavour and narrative style, promising an unforgettable cultural experience.
The term “Inkaba”, derived from the Ndebele language, loosely translates to “umbilical cord” a powerful symbol of origin, identity and an unbreakable connection to one’s roots.
Nyathi explained that the festival’s core mission is to engage Zimbabweans living in the UK and remind them of their connection to Zimbabwe and Africa at large.
He said the gathering would be about reconnection, fostering pride and celebrating the rich tapestry of African identity through music, dance, poetry and cuisine.
“Inkaba suggests a sense of identity and belonging. It reflects the reality that, although our children are scattered across the globe, they remain part of Zimbabwe and Africa. This festival reconnects them with home and instils a sense of pride in being African,” said Nyathi.
With a wealth of touring experience, Nyathi added that unlike other festivals abroad, Inkaba is unique in its fusion of cultural elements that stir nostalgia and evoke the warmth of home, despite being thousands of miles away.
“This event is not just about music. It’s a rich tapestry of artistic expressions, from music and poetry to the culinary arts. We aim to create a space for relaxation, reflection, and appreciation of our identity through joyful singing, dancing and indulging in traditional delicacies.
We’re bringing back the culinary treasures we once enjoyed amacimbi, umfushwa and umviyo, foods many in the UK community grew up with.
“Those who attend will not regret it. We’ve created an environment where people can momentarily escape the demands of life in Europe and reconnect with who they truly are,” he added.
In addition to the main festival events, the organisers have introduced an educational dimension. The artistes will tour various universities to bridge the generational gap and connect with younger audiences.
“As an extension of the festival, we’ll host an exclusive performance of Echoes from Zimbabwe at the University of Greenwich, where African students will experience the rich culture of their ancestral homeland.
This initiative will also allow our touring creatives to engage young people in cultural dialogue, encouraging them to explore and celebrate their heritage while fostering a sense of belonging in what can often feel like an alien environment,” said Nyathi.
The Inkaba Festival was conceived as a vibrant celebration of African traditions.
Through live performances and storytelling, it seeks to connect communities and create lasting cultural experiences for future generations
