Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
CHIPINGE-BORN musician, Shantel Sithole, popularly known as Kanindo Queen, has expressed her deep honour to being part of the star-studded line-up of artistes slated to perform at this year’s Heroes Gala in Hwedza.
A seasoned veteran in her own right, Sithole is not a stranger to high-profile events.
This year’s performance marks another proud return to Heroes Galas for the talented singer who continues to fly the flag high for Manicaland.
Sithole, who hails from Vheneka Village in Chipinge, said she remains humbled by the continued recognition she receives from organisers of national events.
“It is an honour to be recognised. This is not the first time. We have attended more than 20 national events, which shows that we are striking the right chords.
We are going there in full force, and we are happy that we are part of the important festivities. We are ready to show the world what we are made of,” said Sithole, who spoke through her manager and producer, Gibson Makumbe.
Now a household name in the local Kanindo genre, Sithole is riding a wave of confidence as she prepares to release three brand new singles – “Vana Vangu,” “Godaben” and “Jiti Kanindo”.
These tracks, she said, reflect her journey, roots and commitment to preserving traditional sounds in modern formats.
“These songs are very close to my heart. They tell stories of everyday Zimbabweans. ‘Vana Vangu’ is a touching tribute to the struggles and hopes of parents trying to raise their children with dignity. ‘Godaben’ is more light-hearted as it is a playful look at relationships and cultural norms told through Kanindo lens.
“Jiti-Kanindo” is a tittle of a song, yet a fusion of traditional Jiti and Kanindo, which is a sound that I believe will bring joy and dance to people of all ages. Every time we perform at such events, we remember and honour the heroes who gave us the freedom to express ourselves through music.
“This platform is, not just for me, but for all those who walk with me in spirit. I want the crowd in Hwedza to feel the pride of Chipinge,” she said.
As the Heroes Day commemorations draw near, Kujeke Growth Point in Hwedza is expected to come alive on Tuesday, with scores of revellers from across the country descending on the venue for a night of music, dance and celebration.
Last year’s event at Nyika Growth Point in Bikita drew thousands and marked one of the largest gatherings ever recorded in the area. The sleepy rural centre woke up to a historic crowd, with artistes like Mark Ngwazi, Andy Muridzo, and Tendai Dembo delivering unforgettable performances.
This year, the Heroes Gala once again brings together some of the country’s top talents.
In addition to Shantel Sithole, the line-up includes Clemence Magwaza, Allan Chimbetu, Chillspot Family, Jah Master, and Nisha T.
Reggae music maestro, Emmanuel “Mannex” Motsi, Bulawayo rapper, Mzoe 7, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Band, and mbira princess, Sasha Amadhuve will also grace the stage.
For the Hwedza community, known for its warm hospitality and progressive spirit the Heroes Gala is more than entertainment — it is an opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich cultural and political history.
The Heroes and Defence Forces holidays hold special significance in areas like Hwedza, where liberation struggle battles were fought and music served as a source of strength and resistance for freedom fighters.
Hosting the gala serves as a symbolic gesture of remembrance and gratitude.
Over the years, these national galas have, not only honoured departed and living heroes, but also helped promote inclusivity.
Remote and often-overlooked areas such as Murambinda (Buhera), Mt Darwin, Dotito Growth Point, Nyika Growth Point in Bikita and Nembudziya in Gokwe have all played host, further cementing the role of music and celebration in national healing and unity.
The gala also comes hot on the heels of Hwedza’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.
The annual Hwedza Arts Festival, held every Christmas Day and spearheaded by the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire, has become a mainstay on the national entertainment calendar.
