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The musical event is expected to attract more than 25 000 people and between 30 and 50 local and foreign artistes.
In an interview, Urban communications officer in the Ministry of Media, Information and Publicity, Retired Major Anywhere Mutambudzi, said this year’s Heroes Gala was going to be a unique one as it would attract foreign artistes.
“We have lined up both foreign and local artistes at the Mupandawana Heroes Gala.
“We have invited groups from Namibia and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in addition to the best local artistes. From Namibia we will have a group called Ndilimani and Reo Sounds from DRC,” said Rtd Major Mutambudzi.
He said preparations for the event were at an advanced stage.
“We have identified the site where we want to stage the gala and I can also confirm that ZBCtv and radio are also prepared to air the event live.
“We expect the musical gala to be a memorable one given the fact it will be a rare occasion that has ever taken place at the busy growth point,” he said.
Rtd Major Mutambudzi also said the yet to be identified guest of honour would tour the historical shrines in the area before the start of the gala at around 4pm.
One of the shrines likely to be visited is Hurodzavasikana in Headman Makumbe area under Chief Gutu, where 21 war collaborators and comrades were killed during a day-long battle with Rhodesian security forces.
Gutu District Administrator Roy Hove hailed the Government for choosing Gutu as the venue of this year’s Heroes Gala and said it presented the district with the chance to showcase itself in the best way possible.
“We, as Gutu district, are excited to play host to such a notable national event and we feel honoured. We will try by all means to showcase and present ourselves in the best manner. We also want to assure those coming to Mupandawana that there will be maximum security,” said Hove.
Local artistes expected to take part include sungura maestro Alick Macheso, Peter Moyo, Blessing Shumba, LMG Choir, Amavhithikazi, Mbare Chimurenga, Mbungo Stars, Uncle Jahunda, Dembo Brothers, Sebastian Magacha, Mercy Mutsvene, Kapfupi, Sandra Ndebele, Iyasa, Chiwoniso Maraire, Progress Chipfumo, Comrade Chinx and Jah Prayzah, to name but a few.
Online Reporter