Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Excitement is building across Mhondoro, Mashonaland West Province, ahead of this year’s Heroes Gala, with Mubaira Growth Point preparing to welcome thousands of music lovers for one of Zimbabwe’s biggest national entertainment celebrations.
For the first time, Chemhanza Grounds will host the annual gala, transforming the usually quiet growth point into a vibrant entertainment hub on August 11 as Zimbabwe honours its liberation heroes through music, culture and unity.
Residents have been counting down to the event since the official announcement, with many describing the decision to bring the gala to Mhondoro as a historic milestone for the district. The celebrations will feature a diverse line-up that cuts across generations and musical genres, ensuring there is something for every reveller.
Jiti sensation Baba Harare is expected to headline a programme that also features sungura heavyweight Peter “Young Igwe” Moyo, Simon Mutambi, Mark Ngwazi, Romeo Gasa, Clement Magwaza and DT Bio Mudimba.
Traditional music will also take centre stage, with mbira ambassadors Sasha Amadhuve and Andy Muridzo expected to showcase Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage through their performances. Gospel lovers have not been left out, with award-winning musicians Dorcas Moyo and Agatha Murudzwa expected to uplift the crowd with praise and worship.
Zimdancehall star Jah Master and contemporary musician Mzoe 7 will add youthful energy to the celebrations, while revolutionary musician Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda and the LMG Choir are also billed to perform.
One of the night’s emotional highlights is expected to come from Atenda Chinx, daughter of the late liberation icon Cde Dickson Chingaira Makoni. Backed by the Barrel of Peace Band, the young singer continues to carry forward her family’s musical legacy while building her own career.
Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services deputy director Hymn Mureru said preparations were progressing smoothly ahead of the gala. He said the free event would begin at 6 PM after the Defence Forces commemorations at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, urging people from across Mashonaland West and neighbouring provinces to attend.
According to Mureru, taking the Heroes Gala to Mhondoro demonstrates Government’s commitment to decentralising national celebrations and ensuring communities outside major cities also enjoy flagship events. The decision has been welcomed by residents, who will have an opportunity to watch some of the country’s biggest artistes perform without travelling to Harare or other urban centres.
In an interview, award-winning gospel musician Dorcas Moyo said she always considers it a privilege to perform at national commemorations. She said such occasions allow musicians to inspire people through music while celebrating the country’s heritage and unity.
Rhumba musician Clement Magwaza echoed similar sentiments, saying performing at the Heroes Gala remains one of the greatest honours for any Zimbabwean artiste. He said the occasion goes beyond entertainment as musicians also play a role in celebrating the country’s history and paying tribute to those who fought for independence.
The Heroes Gala has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s most anticipated annual entertainment events, combining music, patriotism and culture in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Following the success of last year’s edition in Wedza, organisers are confident Mhondoro will deliver another memorable celebration.
