Konka: Where art, music fuse into magic

MAKOKOBA, Bulawayo’s oldest suburb, is a small community with a big passion for art hence its the home of three visionary souls that have come together to create something extraordinary. Yolanda Ncube, fondly known as the enigmatic DJ Donsela, joined forces with the artistic virtuosos Ndumiso Tshuma and the globe-trotting Danny Chinhare, now based in the UK, to establish a haven for artistry and creativity to flourish.

DJ Donsela, once a multifaceted artiste himself, danced, sang, acted and worked as a DJ with fervour in his younger days. This ignited a spark within him to see budding artistes break free and make their mark on the world stage. In June 2022, the trio opened the doors of Konka, an intimate house in Makokoba that played host to parties and became the launchpad for rising musicians, drawing inspiration from South Africa’s illustrious Konka club in Soweto.

From the moment you step foot into Konka, you’ll sense an alluring charm meticulously crafted by DJ Donsela and his team. A place that effortlessly transcends its domestic origins, transforming into a sanctuary of rhythm and melody. Here, the local artistes are the stars and their vibrant beats echo through the hearts of the crowd.

Much like the musical maestro Kabza De Small, DJ Donsela curated a captivating setup for DJs at Konka, inviting the crowd to witness the magic unfold as artistes blend soul-stirring melodies right before their eyes.

“Konka is a symphony of local talent, resonating from the streets of Makokoba to the different corners of the world. We invite music enthusiasts of all kinds to come and experience our live performances. It’s not just a leisure centre; it’s reminiscent of the legendary Makhosi Theatre, a place that once nurtured dreams,” DJ Donsela remarked.

His ardent desire is to provide a platform for the younger generation of artistes to showcase their boundless talents to the world.

“I yearn to see our artistes grow, unite and share their unique gifts. Makokoba is brimming with hidden gems and it’s my wish to see them shine.”

Despite its cosy confines, the magic of Konka knows no bounds. The line-up of talent that has graced its stage reads like a who’s who of rising stars: Browny, Man Flex, Kiara, Lights WakwaBulawayo, Mos gang, APD, Rass Tekken, Stormza, Maestro da hustler, Barrack bozza, Ashera-Mendy, Vinnie King, Ace Zella, Jonas Brown, The Whole Tribe, TRP, 6nifty K, Toxic, Mika, Tsepo and a number of DJs.

DJ Donsela dreams big as he envisions a future beyond Makokoba. He yearns for a spacious studio, a gathering place for artistes and a platform for talented producers. DJ Donsela’s passion for music now finds purpose in encouraging aspiring artists to break boundaries and embrace their limitless potential.

“We crave a grander stage, one that transcends Makokoba’s borders where artistes from across Bulawayo and Zimbabwe unite. A haven like the legendary Makhosi Theatre where the world witnesses a kaleidoscope of talent,” DJ Donsela said.

Konka is a place for entertainment and merriment. Without burning a hole in your pocket, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of Ekasi, relishing the unmatched comfort and vibrant vibes that only this community can provide.

In the spirit of celebration, Konka last year organised a year-end street bash. This was after a tournament hosted for ex-football players, both juniors and seniors meant to unite different neighbourhoods like Makokoba, Mzilikazi, Nguboyenja and Thorngrove. After the games, players and fans converged at the bash. DJ Donsela and his team want to bring the legendary Black Mfolosi to grace the stage at Konka. A vision to foster collaboration where the seasoned veterans and emerging talents remix their songs, creating timeless harmonies. Before the magic of Konka, there was “Estubini,” a haven merely four houses away where again creatives’ talents were also groomed. — @TashaMutsiba.