Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
Renowned veteran poet and philanthropist Albert Nyathi has revealed that this year’s edition of the Inkaba Festival will be a platform for those based in the United Kingdom to celebrate, preserve and activate the setting of their Zimbabwean culture and heritage.
The much-anticipated festival will take place on August 3 in London and August 9 in Birmingham.
Apart from Nyathi, the festival will feature an array of talented artistes like Progress Chipfumo, who is a master of traditional and contemporary music, along with the soulful Busi Mhlanga, Mantongande and Dr Queen Patience.
Each artiste on the line-up brings their own flavour and narrative style, promising an unforgettable experience.
The term “Inkaba,” derived from the Ndebele language, translates loosely to “umbilical cord”. This symbolism represents the origins, identity and unbreakable connection to one’s roots.
Nyathi said the festival’s core mission is to engage Zimbabweans based in the UK and remind them that they belong to Zimbabwe and Africa.
He said the gathering will 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 has to do with the fact that although our children are scattered all over the world, what remains is that they belong to Zimbabwe and Africa. The festival connects them back home and fosters a sense of being a proud African,” said Nyathi.
With a proven touring experience, Nyathi revealed that, of the festivals he has graced abroad, Inkaba is a bit unique as it fuses different elements that allow those in attendance to chew nostalgic bones and feel the spirit and warmth of being home, even though they are miles away.
“This event is not just about music. It’s a rich tapestry of artistic expressions from music itself, poetry and culinary arts. We aim to provide a space for relaxation, reflection and appreciation of our identity through joyful singing, dancing and indulging in traditional delights. We’re bringing back the culinary treasures we once relished like amacimbi, umfushwa and umviyo, that many in the UK community grew up enjoying.
“Those who will attend will not regret this treat. We have created an environment where people can let go of the demanding life in Europe and momentarily step back in time to embrace who they truly are,” said Nyathi.
Apart from the festival’s main dates, the organisers of the event added a different flair as the artistes on tour will visit various universities with a mission of bridging the generational gap by reaching out to much younger audiences.
“As an extra for the festival, we will have 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 will also allow the creatives on tour to engage with these young people in cultural dialogues, encouraging them to explore and celebrate their heritage while fostering a sense of belonging in an often alien environment,” said Nyathi.
The Inkaba festival was created to offer a vibrant window into the richness of African traditions.
Through live performances and storytelling, Inkaba aims to connect communities and foster sustainable cultural experiences for future generations.
