Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE Kamandama Memorial Marathon returns this year with a new addition designed to strengthen community ties and honour one of Zimbabwe’s darkest mining tragedies. For the first time, the commemorations will conclude with a music gala featuring top regional artistes and local performers in Hwange on November 30.
The marathon, organised annually by the Hwange Athletics Club in partnership with Hwange Colliery Company Limited Holdings (HCCL Holdings), pays tribute to the 427 miners who lost their lives in the Kamandama mining disaster of June 6, 1972. The tragedy remains the deadliest mine accident in Zimbabwe and across Africa, and the event continues to serve as a solemn reminder of the need for improved safety standards in the mining sector.
Event organiser Deliverance Nyoni said preparations are on track, adding that this year’s edition seeks to broaden the commemorative activities beyond the race.
“The marathon has always been well supported, but after the main event, people were left without a unified way to wind down the day. We introduced the music gala to allow the community to celebrate together while remembering the miners. The event is free, and we have a strong line-up of artistes who will take to the stage,” Nyoni said.
The gala, which kicks off at 6pm, will feature South African Amapiano sensation Nkosazana Daughter and Sungura maestro Alick Macheso as headliners. They will be joined by Zimdancehall stars Jah Signal and Jah Master, Rhumba musician Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu, and DT Bio Mudimba, the hitmaker behind Kujata Jata.
Hwange-based artistes will also showcase their talent, including J Tonga, Shanty B and Delete, Rashyn and 6G Band, Zizo, Ras Fidzoh, Boomslang, DJ Divara, and Eternal Ecstasy Family.
Mr Bones, known for his hit Faka 2 Phezu KweBhodlela, expressed his excitement about being part of the commemorations.
“It’s an honour to be performing alongside the legend Alick Macheso at the Kamandama commemorations. He inspired me musically. I’m also excited to share the stage with Nkosazana Daughter, as I’m a fan of her work.
“Those who’ll attend must brace themselves for an epic show. With my crew, Ezehumutsha, we aim to deliver a memorable performance and connect with fans in the mining town,” he said.
Organisers believe the addition of the gala will encourage broader community participation while giving families and survivors a moment to reflect, unite and heal through music.
