Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
The annual Intwasa Arts Festival KoBulawayo, a celebration of local culture and creativity, has officially moved its dates from the initial September 25-28 to November 28-30. This shift follows an earlier postponement from its traditional September schedule due to funding challenges impacting many community arts initiatives.
In an interview, Raisedon Baya, the festival’s founder and director, explained, “September is our traditional month, as it falls within the Intwasa season. The name “Intwasa” comes from IsiNdebele, meaning “spring”. However, the date change was necessary because of funding challenges within the sector. The festival relies heavily on partner support.”
Baya acknowledged that the postponement has introduced significant planning and logistical challenges. He added that such changes can affect the festival’s brand reputation.
“When you postpone, you inconvenience a lot of people who have planned for your event. They have to rearrange their schedules and some may lose interest or trust. It’s never ideal to postpone, which is why, for 20 years, we’ve maintained consistency. We take pride in being the longest-running and most consistent festival.”
Despite the challenges, attendees can expect a vibrant line-up this year, with familiar venues such as the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ), the Bulawayo Theatre, and the City Hall car park hosting various events.
Baya also highlighted the festival’s signature event, Women, Wine and Words, along with new community-focused activities in Cowdray Park, Nkulumane and Mzilikazi.
“These events are designed to bring the festival to the people,” he said.
Beyond entertainment, Baya emphasised the festival’s vital role in the local arts scene and its importance for community cohesion.
“Festivals bring people together and help us acknowledge and celebrate our diversity. They create opportunities for growth and employment for our artists.”
Key partnerships have been essential to the festival’s success, especially support from the Culture Fund and the EU Delegation to Zimbabwe.
Baya expressed his gratitude, saying, “Our partners are crucial in keeping the festival alive and ensuring we deliver on our mandate of celebrating diversity and empowering artistes, particularly young and emerging talent.” — @MbuleloMpofu.
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