Vusumuzi Dube
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE Government is set to commence the construction of a Culture Village in Matobo District ahead of next year’s Independence Day celebrations, which will be hosted in the Matabeleland South Province.
The development forms part of a broader national effort to promote and uplift creative and cultural industries in the region, ensuring that the arts sector continues to play a key role in community development and heritage preservation.
Confirming the development, Matabeleland South National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) provincial manager, Percy Vela, said plans were at an advanced stage.
“We’re expected to construct a Culture Village anytime soon, before the Independence celebrations. The village will have structures that include a showroom and a gazebo. Artistes will exhibit artefacts and conduct business leading up to and during the celebrations,” said Vela.
He added that the facility will be a permanent structure for Matobo District, providing a dedicated space for artistes to showcase their work and stage performances.
“This will remain as a Culture Village for Matobo District, where artistes will showcase their activities, including live performances, since a standard stage will be constructed. This will also attract the hosting of festivals in the district,” he said.
Vela revealed that the Matobo Rural District Council had already agreed to provide land for the project, with the Department of Physical Planning finalising the site plan. Once completed, the Department of Public Works will produce a bill of quantities to guide the next stage of construction.
“This is a positive development for the arts industry, especially given the improving road infrastructure such as the tarring of the Gwanda–Maphisa and Bulawayo–Maphisa roads. There’s significant business activity around the Maphisa and Kezi areas, but limited entertainment. “The road improvements will make it easier for promoters to engage top artistes to perform in the area. For instance, the Gwanda–Maphisa road is only 60kms, making it convenient for audiences from Gwanda to travel to Maphisa for shows on a fully tarred road,” added Vela.— @mthabisi_mthire
Online Reporter