Sidumisile Mabena
Langalakhe Mabena
ZIMBABWEAN music giant Jah Prayzah, who last performed in Bulawayo in 2024 at the Bulawayo Shutdown Party, is set to make an emotional return to the City of Kings as he headlines the Harris Music Festival on 31 January at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) Hall 3.
It is exactly a year and a month since the Military Touch Movement boss graced Bulawayo, and his long-awaited return is expected to serve as a compensatory gig for his legion of fans who have gone without a live performance from him for far too long.
Wagwizi, as Jah Prayzah is affectionately known, will give his fans a full experience as he performs several tracks from his latest 14th studio album, Ndini Mukudzeyi.
The setlist is expected to include fan favourites such as Ruzhowa, Ibvo, Mibvundzo, Chiramu, Hubaba, alongside a selection of classics from his extensive catalogue.
Keen Mushapaidze, Jah Prayzah’s manager, said Wagwizi is ready to deliver a powerful show in Bulawayo and reconnect with fans whose support has been integral to his career.
He described the return as emotional, hinting that those in attendance should expect a deep connection between the artiste and the audience.
“Last year, we did the Ndini Mukudzeyi International Tour as we took the album to different parts of the world, including Canada, China, the United Kingdom, and North America. We also did a local tour, but we didn’t have much time to bring the album to Bulawayo.
“We are delighted that Jah Prayzah and the 3rd Generation Band will be in Bulawayo this month-end as he will be headlining a local gig. He last performed in the city in June 2023, and this one is a very emotional return as he loves the city so much.
“Fans have to brace themselves for an epic set that will fuse songs from the Ndini Mukudzeyi album, as well as classics from previous years,” said Mushapaidze.
He added that Jah Prayzah has always considered Bulawayo his home, a relationship strengthened by his long-standing collaborations with creatives from the city. Among his team are producer Vusa “Stot” Sitotombe and dancer and backing vocalist Stimy Stimela, who spent part of her life in Mzilikazi. Over the years, Jah Prayzah has also worked with Bulawayo-based groups and individuals such as Iyasa and model Ben Chest.
On a lighter note, one of the event organisers, Jordan Dube, said they were starting the year on a high by bringing Jah Prayzah back to Bulawayo, hoping the move would set the tone for more high-calibre shows throughout 2026.
“This is Jah Prayzah’s first show for 2026, and we are proud to be bringing him here in Bulawayo as he has a strong fan base in the city. We are starting the year in the right direction, and we are ready to roll.
“This show promises to be exciting because many have been longing to watch Wagwizi on stage, and here he will be,” said Dube.
Artistes who will also perform at the festival include South African Amapiano artiste Leehleza, Zim Dancehall superstar Seh Calaz, Msiz’Kay, and DJs Nospa, Umlungu Omnyama, Fydale the Don, Stout, Mufali, Zulu Dietem and Feel G.
Online Reporter