Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube [email protected]
MARAPHOSA villagers in the Insuza area of Umguza District, Matabeleland North, witnessed an unforgettable weekend of entertainment and culture as top artistes, Mlambos Express Band led by SaMangwe (Fiselani Ngwenya), Godolude (Mandlenkosi Mpofu), Abigail Mabuza, Spikiri and Gogo Nasinginjo delivered electrifying performances at businessman Xolisani “Mashudzha” Moyo’s house-warming party.
The celebration transformed the rural community into a vibrant entertainment hub, with hundreds of villagers gathering to witness a rare line-up of live performances in their backyard.
While house-warming parties are more commonly associated with urban settings, Mashudzha broke new ground by officially opening his newly built homestead with a grand celebration that many villagers said they would remember for years.
The festivities began on Thursday and Friday with a two-day traditional ceremony that brought together people with ancestral callings and members of the community to dedicate the new homestead in line with cultural customs.
The celebrations reached their peak on Saturday night when Mashudzha, whose business interests are in mining, hosted a star-studded musical showcase that echoed across the village until dawn.
The artistes kept the entertainment-starved crowd on its feet throughout the night. Disco queen Abigail Mabuza, backed by her two energetic dancers, opened the musical programme with a lively hour-long set that immediately won over the audience. For many villagers, it was their first opportunity to watch the popular performer live, and she did not disappoint. Performing some of her biggest hits, Mabuza brought her trademark energy and stage antics, with money showering onto the stage as appreciative fans rewarded her performance. Popular Suza businessman, Mamba, was among those leading the celebrations.
Godolude and his Friendly Brothers then raised the tempo with an energetic set that showcased both musical skill and choreography. Backed by a six-member dance crew, the group ensured there was never a dull moment. The instrumentalists also impressed, with talented drummer Siyabenya producing thunderous rhythms while bassist Mawaya effortlessly switched to lead guitar duties.
Their performance captivated an audience that included young and old, with some patrons travelling from as far as South Africa to attend the celebration.
Taking to the stage after such an energetic display was no easy task, but SaMangwe and Mlambos Express Band, affectionately known as Eziqedamazwene, rose to the occasion with ease. Drawing on decades of experience in the music industry, the veteran frontman delivered a polished performance that kept fans singing and dancing throughout the night.
The band thrilled revellers with timeless favourites such as Plan B and Maths, while also introducing newer songs including Swelokwakhe.
Despite the chilly early morning temperatures, the atmosphere remained electric as villagers packed the dance floor until sunrise.
Spikiri and Gogo Nasinginjo also took to the stage, adding their own unique flair to the celebrations.
Mashudzha said he was delighted by the success of the event.
“It was a perfect way to open my homestead. We started with the traditional ceremony because I’m a cultural person. The music show brought artistes loved by our people and it’s clear they enjoyed themselves,” he said.
