Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo-Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
British-Nigerian cultural architect, entrepreneur and entertainment visionary Dr Adesegun Adeosun Jr, affectionately known as King SMADE, arrived in the country yesterday afternoon for a high-level visit that sets the stage for the upcoming AfriKingdom Festival 2026–2027, a landmark continental celebration of African faith, creativity and enterprise.
The visit, which runs from October 30 to November 7, is hosted by AfriLegacy in partnership with Nyaradzo Group.
It seeks to strengthen cultural, creative and diplomatic ties among Zimbabwe, Southern Africa and the United Kingdom in anticipation of the much-anticipated festival.
Speaking on arrival, Dr SMADE said he was thrilled to be in Zimbabwe, a country he has long admired for its culture and resilience.
“It feels amazing to finally be here in Zimbabwe — a land of warmth, talent and rich heritage,” he said.
“I have always wanted to experience this beautiful country and connect with its creative spirit. Zimbabwe holds a special place in Africa’s story, and I am excited to see how we can work together to shape the future through AfriKingdom.”
Dressed sharply and flashing his trademark smile, King SMADE said Zimbabwe’s warmth and hospitality had touched him deeply.
“I feel completely at home here,” he said. “The love, the smiles, the energy — it’s pure African excellence. Zimbabwe is full of creative fire, and I can already feel that this country is ready to shine on the global stage.”
SMADE, whose Afro Nation Festival has united African sounds from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and the diaspora into one global movement, revealed that his next mission is to discover and amplify Zimbabwean talent through AfriKingdom.
“Afro Nation has shown the world what happens when Africans come together through music and culture,” he said. “From Lagos to Accra, Cape Town to London — it’s been a celebration of who we are. Now it’s Zimbabwe’s time. I’m here to find the next stars, to give local artists a stage that reaches the world.”
The influential producer, who has organized over 1 000 events across four continents, said Zimbabwe’s growing creative scene aligns perfectly with AfriKingdom’s vision to merge faith, creativity, and enterprise.
“Zimbabwe is a land of talent and vision,” he added. “The passion I’ve seen here is powerful.
“We want to work with young people, creatives and entrepreneurs who are ready to represent Africa with pride and purpose.”
According to the organisers, the AfriKingdom Festival, set to be co-hosted by Zimbabwe and South Africa, will unite artists, investors and believers from across Africa and the diaspora under one vision: to celebrate the Kingdom culture of excellence, unity, and purpose.
During his stay, Dr SMADE is expected to hold strategic meetings with Government ministries, corporate leaders and creative organisations, while also participating in faith-based and cultural events that showcase Zimbabwe’s vibrant identity and heritage.
AfriLegacy chief executive Joseph Madziyire described the visit as a defining moment for Zimbabwe’s creative and business ecosystems.
“Dr SMADE’s visit is not just symbolic — it’s a prophetic and strategic alignment of purpose,” said Madziyire.
“Through this collaboration, we are building bridges between faith, creativity, and enterprise to position Africa as a global force of influence and innovation. Zimbabwe stands ready to lead this new era of continental unity.”
Madziyire emphasised that the partnership between Zimbabwe and AfriLegacy represents the birth of a continental movement.
“We are telling a new story of Africa — one built on excellence, unity and divine purpose,” he said. “Dr SMADE’s presence here reminds us that Africa’s time is now, and Zimbabwe is proud to be part of that awakening.”
The AfriKingdom Festival, scheduled to run from December 2026 through 2027, is envisioned as a grand showcase of Africa’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit.
It will feature international worship concerts, business and leadership summits, creative economy expos and fashion and film showcases, as well as youth empowerment forums.
Madziyire said the festival will not only be a celebration of African talent but also a platform for sustainable partnerships that drive investment and collaboration across industries.
“We want the world to see that Africa’s creative economy is not just about art and entertainment — it’s about impact, enterprise and legacy,” he said. “AfriKingdom is where faith meets innovation and creativity fuels opportunity.”
While Nyaradzo Group founder Philip Mataranyika could not personally receive Dr SMADE as he was away outside the country, he extended a heartfelt welcome to the visiting delegation, assuring them of full support from his team.
“Although I am regrettably away during your visit, please know that you are in the most capable hands,” said Mataranyika.
“Our team will ensure that your experience in Zimbabwe is meaningful and memorable.”
He added that the Nyaradzo Group and AfriLegacy share a common vision of transforming African business into a lifestyle and legacy movement.
“This visit is not only an introduction to Zimbabwe’s spirit but also an invitation into our “Bundle of Convenience” —a growing ecosystem of businesses serving communities locally and globally,” said Mataranyika.
“Through AfriLegacy, we are extending this beyond traditional business, shaping Africa’s global narrative through creativity, faith, and enterprise.” The AfriKingdom initiative, spearheaded by AfriLegacy, seeks to connect Africa’s creative industries with global opportunities. Nyaradzo Group, on the other hand, brings its vast experience in corporate innovation, events, and hospitality to the partnership.
King SMADE’s 2025 tour will also mark the beginning of the AfriKingdom roadshow, set to travel across major African cities in the build-up to the festival.
