Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Renowned Zimbabwean creatives Albert Nyathi, Busi Mhlanga, and Progress Chipfumo are set to headline the inaugural Inkaba Festival in the United Kingdom – a vibrant celebration of culture, identity, and creative expression aimed at reconnecting diasporan Zimbabweans with their roots.
Joining them are Dr Queen Patience and Mantongande, promising an unforgettable cultural showcase.
The festival, which debuted in London on August 3, will move to Birmingham on August 9.
Speaking to Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, organisers said the idea of the festival was conceptualised last year and has finally come to life.
“This is an inaugural festival. We were inspired by the idea of inkaba — the umbilical cord — as a symbol of connection to the motherland. Although African children are scattered across the world, they remain tethered to their roots, and for Zimbabweans, that’s home,” said the organisers.
Unlike many existing Zimbabwe-focused events that are largely music-centric, Inkaba Festival aims to broaden the scope by incorporating other artistic forms such as storytelling, visual arts, comedy, dance, poetry, literature, and even Zimbabwean cuisine.
“Some of our children were born here in the UK, others moved here at a young age. While music has been the major connection to the motherland, we believe exposing them to a wider array of art forms – along with dishes like amacimbi and umfushwa, helps deepen that connection,” they said.
Festival organisers expressed excitement over their headline acts, particularly Albert Nyathi, whose family-friendly performances continue to inspire across generations.
“Albert Nyathi, whose work is rooted in cultural education, has just been honoured by a U.S.-based organisation, BeingAfrican, as part of their 100 African Icons series. We also have Busi Mhlanga, Mantongande, and Progress Chipfumo, whose stagecraft is second to none,” they said.
Beyond performances, the festival will include workshops on music, theatre, painting, poetry, comedy, and dance, solidifying its family-centred and educational ethos.
“This is just the beginning. We envision the Inkaba Festival growing to become one of the most phenomenal platforms celebrating Zimbabwean and African heritage in the diaspora. People should come out in their numbers – this is a space to mingle, reconnect, and celebrate who we are,” said organisers. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
derick.khumalo