Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Afro-jazz crooner Jeys Marabini and Zimbabwe’s iconic cultural ensemble, the Inkululeko Yabatsha School of Arts (Iyasa), will headline the 46th Uhuru celebrations, set to take place at Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.
Running under the theme “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030,” this musical extravaganza will be held at Minda High School on April 18 to be exact.
Focusing on Matabeleland South and its creatives, it is noteworthy that Marabini and Iyasa will undoubtedly be the stand-out performers at the event.
This follows the growing demand for the two outfits both regionally and beyond, as they will be performing in their backyard.
For most people in rural areas, this will be their first time meeting the two enterprising groups under one roof. Other top acts included in the line-up comprise Chase Skuza, Sandra Ndebele, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Black Umfolosi, Dereck Mpofu, Bio Mudhimba, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sanyanga, Gudoluhle and Friends, Dubia Masters, Bolamba Culture Birds, Zondamuthakathi Dance Group, Zinja Ziyamuluman Mxolisi, and many more. In an interview, Marabini — whose real name is Majahawodwa Ndlovu — could not hide his elation as he is set to co-headline the event with Iyasa.
“We are looking forward to the Uhuru celebrations after being included in this star-studded line-up,” he shared.
“This gala is particularly special for us since it will be held at my doorstep. We promise nothing but fireworks, as has become the norm. “I urge fans to show up in numbers and celebrate independence with us on this significant occasion.”
The lanky performer, whose popularity continues to rise with each passing day, noted that independence is a special occasion that should be cherished by all.
“To be honest, we will be remembering all departed and living heroes and heroines who liberated us from colonial rule. Independence did not come on a silver platter, and we are all cherishing the good things brought to us by the freedom fighters. “As it stands, we will always celebrate the good deeds of our heroes.”
He added:
“To all the musicians in the line-up, this is the perfect opportunity to honour our heroes through song and dance.
“I urge them to give it their all and ensure those watching us at home enjoy this moment. We want them to be entertained from the comfort of their homes.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Iyasa founding director Nkululeko Dube, whose ensemble is raring to go.
“We are ready for this gala and hope to deliver our best since it is happening in Matabeleland South,” he stressed.
“With this gala, it feels like we are performing on home ground and it’s a great opportunity to give people an experience, as we always do. “We promise one of the best experiences. It’s quite an honour being in Matabeleland, specifically in Maphisa. Therefore, we aim to deliver one of our best performances.”
Dube, whose cultural ensemble will be celebrating 25 years in the industry, noted that the Uhuru gala serves as a precursor for more from Iyasa this year. “It’s the beginning of the year, and we are currently preparing something special for people to enjoy the gala as much as possible.
“We look forward to it and feel ready. I believe our experience with galas gives us a good idea of how to approach and showcase this event.”
Dube continued:
“It’s also an honour to be included in this gala, as we are one of the brands that have worked with galas for many years.
“I think when galas started, that was when Iyasa got the opportunity to be showcased nationally. Many people know Iyasa through national galas, so we truly appreciate the Ministry of Information and the Government for their loyalty and support of our creative work over the years. It is always an honour. “We last performed in Maphisa many years ago. There was a time when the gala was held in Matabeleland, but it’s been a long time since then. So yes, we are looking forward to it.”
Euphoria has since gripped Maphisa, where preparations are in full swing.
Serious road rehabilitation is taking place in the area, with the Government holding state functions.
Last year, Nembudziya Government High School in Gokwe, Midlands, hosted the 45th Uhuru Musical Gala, which featured an impressive line-up, including Simon Mutambi, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Clement Magwaza, Argatha Murudzwa, Shantel Sithole, Jah Signal, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Sandra Ndebele and Peter Moyo. This year promises even more fun, with Iyasa and Marabini set to headline the event. The Uhuru gala is more The impact of such events reaches beyond the night itself.
Peter Tanyanyiwa