Online Reporter
Gift Moyo [email protected]
Afro-fusion artiste Macala Macala (Nigel Landelani Thole) has suffered a setback after the cancellation of the 2026 Moto Moto Festival in Cologne, Germany, which has denied him what would have been one of the biggest international performances of his career.
The rising musician from Bulawayo, who has been enjoying a breakthrough year, was among the artistes billed to perform at the renowned festival on July 25. This opportunity was expected to introduce his music to a wider global audience.
However, last week, organisers announced that the festival had been cancelled following a long-running dispute over the venue, Südbrücke. According to the Moto Moto Festival management, disagreements involving city officials in Cologne and the owners of the festival grounds made it impossible for the event to go ahead.
The organisers said they explored alternative venues but were unable to secure a suitable location, leaving them with no option but to cancel this year’s edition.
Reacting to the news, Macala Macala said he was devastated to lose what he regarded as a career-defining opportunity.
“I felt heartbroken when I heard the news of the festival being cancelled. This was an opportunity for me to showcase my talent on the global stage, but unfortunately the opportunity is gone,” he said.
Despite the disappointment, the singer said he was choosing to focus on the positive. Although the cancelled performance has delayed his international breakthrough, Macala believes the invitation itself has strengthened his resolve to keep building his career and remain ready when the next global opportunity comes his way.
“I’m grateful to Plot Mhako and the rest of the Moto Moto team for believing in me and affording me such a wonderful opportunity as a rising artiste in Zimbabwe. It means a lot to me when my music is recognised as good enough for a global audience,” he said.
Over the coming weeks, the musician intends to record a string of new singles, which he plans to release later this year.
