Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
SUNGURA artiste, Alick Macheso and Dendera kingpin, Sulumani Chimbetu, brought the house down at the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo cocktail party held at the Platinum Leisure and Conference Centre, in an electric evening that merged local culture with global tourism charm.
The Expo, which came to Mutare for the first time, drew hundreds of visitors including regional and international buyers, exhibitors, media personnel and fun lovers.
It was one of the major entertainment highlights of the three-day tourism showcase that celebrates the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
The decision to feature Macheso and Chimbetu reflected the organisers’ vision to blend business networking with authentic musical experiences.
Their performances created a vibrant, immersive atmosphere that gave international delegates a true taste of local hospitality.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister, Honourable Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa, along with senior Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) officials, graced the event.
Platinum Leisure Centre’s manager, Charlotte Thomas, expressed delight at hosting the prestigious function.
“It was a pleasure to host this landmark event that sets the tone for the Sanganai.Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo. Our facilities are tailor-made for glamorous occasions of this nature. We would like to thank the organisers for coming up with such a refreshing event,” she said.
The cocktail also marked the official reopening of the leisure centre, now upgraded to international standards.
The venue boasts high-speed WiFi, world-class PA system, stylish VIP lounge, and restaurant, offering a fusion of international and traditional cuisines.
As the sun dipped behind the hills of Mutare, the crowd was already buzzing with anticipation.
First to take to the stage was Sulumani Chimbetu, who wasted no time plunging into a soulful set that blended old-school dendera classics with newer, Afro-fusion-inspired tracks.
Dressed sharply in a tailored navy suit, Chimbetu opened with his timeless hit “Sean Timba”, instantly pulling the audience to their feet. The fusion of horns and rhythmic guitar licks set the tone for a nostalgic, yet energetic performance.
Chimbetu then delved into “Batai Munhu” and “Nyuchi”, masterfully engaging the audience with his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence.
He even surprised the crowd with a fresh rendition of “Kwedu”, backed by a well-rehearsed band that delivered crisp harmonies and tight instrumentation.
His ability to connect with both young and old in the audience made his set a crowd favourite.
And then the moment came.
Alick Macheso, the sungura legend himself, took to the stage amid wild cheers and ululations. Donning his signature guitar and a radiant smile, Macheso opened with “Mundikumbuke”, drawing roars of appreciation.
His fingers danced across the bass guitar strings with unmatched speed, unleashing waves of infectious rhythm that had the entire venue on its feet.
Macheso, despite missing popular chanter and dancer, Jonasi Kasamba, who did not travel to Mutare with the rest of the band, followed up with crowd-pleasers, “Tafadzwa”, “Charakupa” and “Zvakanaka Zvakadaro”, seamlessly blending his older hits with newer tracks from his recent albums.
His footwork, still sharp and entertaining, ignited laughter and cheers, while the backup dancers added flavour with synchronised choreography.
At one point, he invited guests from the audience — including some international visitors — to dance alongside him, resulting in a lively, joyful moment that captured the true essence of Zimbabwean hospitality.
The synergy between the two stars was electric when Chimbetu joined Macheso on stage around 1pm for a collaboration.
Together, they performed a medley of dendera and sungura fusion, drawing a thunderous response from the audience.
The performances ran late into the night, wrapping up a successful cultural showcase that, not only entertained, but also left visitors with a lasting impression of Zimbabwe’s artistic excellence.
