Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
A sea of revellers drawn from all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe descended on the Minda High School grounds in Maphisa growth point, Matabeleland South, for a pulsating musical gala that fittingly brought the country’s 46th Independence celebrations to a grand close.
Following the main Independence proceedings earlier on Saturday, presided over by President Mnangagwa, the atmosphere transitioned seamlessly from formal ceremony to festive revelry. As the sun slipped below the horizon, the venue morphed into a vibrant arena of song and dance, with thousands braving the cool night air for an experience that stretched well into the early hours of morning.
The official celebrations had earlier attracted high ranking Government officials and multitudes of citizens, setting a proud and patriotic tone that carried into the evening’s gala. Among the dignitaries present were Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr Soda Zhemu, his deputy Dr Omphile Marupi, Permanent Secretary Mr Nick Mangwana, and Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Albert Nguluvhe.
On stage, a rich tapestry of Zimbabwean music unfolded. The line up read like a roll call of the nation’s finest artistes, including Jeys Marabini, Clement Magwaza, Mavusani and The Chimurenga Vocalists, Dereck Mpofu, Andy Muridzo, LMG Choir, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Zinjaziyamluma, Black Umfolosi, Ndolwane Super Sounds and Chief Hwenje, among others.
They were joined by equally compelling performances from Khonangale, Indosakusa: The Morning Star, Iyasa, Bhadilah, Chase Skuza, Jah Master, Sasha, Bolamba Culture Birds, Sulumani Chimbetu, Ufasimba Home of Arts, DT Bio Mudimba and Dubia Masters, ensuring that every musical taste was catered for.
Home grown talent also rose to the occasion, with Maphisa based Thokozani Super Sounds and Zonda Mthakathi drawing loud cheers as they proudly carried the district’s flag. Guiding the night’s proceedings was a seasoned team of hosts — Thulani Munyandi, Leonard Ncube, Nqobile Malinga and Cde Phil Moyo — who kept the energy high and the programme flowing smoothly.
The opening hours were steeped in the soothing harmonies of imbube music. Groups such as Ufasimba, Black Umfolosi and Indosakusa: The Morning Star delivered soul stirring performances, their voices blending effortlessly into the night as audiences swayed and sang along to selections from Indosakusa’s latest album Unembeza.
Indosakusa frontman Oscar K Siziba said performing at the gala brought renewed purpose to their musical journey, especially following the release of their album on April 18.
“We are fresh from releasing our album and it’s a coincidence that soon after launching it in Bulawayo, we travelled to Maphisa for the Independence gala. It had been a while since we performed because we were busy on the album’s production. So being part of performers here has given us purpose and a sense of pride as we look forward to touring Zimbabwe with our latest offering,” said Siziba.
Led by Sotja Moyo, Black Umfolosi emerged as early crowd favourites, with their renditions of Mntanami and the timeless Unity igniting a powerful sing along. As voices rose in unison, the message of togetherness echoed across the venue, perfectly capturing the spirit of Independence.
By around 11pm, the tempo shifted as Maskandi rhythms took centre stage. Zinjaziyamluma’s energetic set electrified the audience, his commanding stage presence drawing Cde Nguluvhe and Mr Mangwana into an impromptu dance on stage — a spontaneous moment that sent waves of excitement through the crowd.
Zinjaziyamluma thrilled fans with songs including Ngisemncane and Vela Bakubone. Speaking on the sidelines, he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to perform.
“It’s a great privilege for me to have been invited to be part of this gala. I promised my fans a top notch performance, and I delivered. Seeing the ministers join me on stage was humbling. I’m happy I represented the genre well,” said Zinjaziyamluma.
As midnight approached, the spotlight turned to Tshibilika sounds. The legendary Martin Sibanda and Ndolwane Super Sounds — performing at a national gala as a standalone act for the first time since their split — delivered a commanding performance. Dubbed “The Big Boss”, Sibanda held the crowd spellbound, with Bakhuzeni emerging as the highlight, repeatedly sung as fans clamoured for an encore.
Mxolisi “Mr Bones” brought renewed intensity to the segment, his performance of Faka 2 Phezukwebhodlela, accompanied by slick choreography, keeping revellers on their feet and reaffirming his status among the new generation of Tshibilika stars.
At around 1am, Clement Magwaza, backed by Macrey Super Sounds, took to the stage, opening with the popular Kokotsha. Joined by his wife and son as part of the dance ensemble, Magwaza delivered a heartfelt performance that resonated deeply with the Matabeleland South audience, who sang along with pride and passion. His set drew praise from Cde Nguluvhe, who later commended him for an effortless yet impactful performance.
Other notable moments came from Sandra Ndebele and Jeys Marabini, whose hit Ezinangeni kept fans swaying, while Agatha Murudzwa added a spiritual dimension, connecting powerfully with the crowd through gospel music.
As the night edged into early morning, around 3am, Inkululeko Yabatsha School of Arts (Iyasa) brought a nostalgic flair to the stage. Their “vintage” set, inspired by the legendary Lovemore Majaivana, showcased precision, artistry and timeless appeal, earning resounding applause.
Soon after, dancehall enthusiasts were treated to an energetic showdown as Jah Master and Ma9Nine alternated on stage, delivering a combined 40 minute burst of high octane ZimDancehall that kept the crowd fully engaged.
Chief Hwenje also made a lasting impression, emerging as one of the night’s most celebrated performers. His spirited delivery of songs including ED More Fire and Vote Mnangagwa prompted repeated calls for encores, making him the longest performing artiste of the gala.
The gala finally drew to a close around 7am, a testament to the endurance, passion and unity of both artistes and revellers. Throughout the night, the celebrations unfolded peacefully, underpinned by a shared sense of national pride.
One attendee, Siphamandla Sibanda, described the gala as a life changing experience.
“This is my first time attending such a massive show, and it’s a blessing that it came to Maphisa. I applaud the Second Republic for bringing Independence celebrations to our region. It has uplifted our community in many ways, including infrastructure development.
“Local businesses also benefited, as visitors supported us through accommodation and food purchases. We are grateful to President Mnangagwa for this opportunity,” he said.
