Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
THE Asambe Gwanda Movement is preparing to mark its first anniversary with a sense of triumph that feels both hard earned and deeply personal, celebrating the moment with a live performance by South African duo Q Twins as it continues to fan the flames of Gwanda’s steadily awakening entertainment scene. It is a celebration not just of a date on the calendar, but of belief, perseverance and the quiet confidence that comes from watching a community slowly fall in love with live music again.
The anniversary event, set for May 2 at Phoenix Shisanyama, follows a year in which the venue has emerged as the undeniable heartbeat of entertainment in the Matabeleland South provincial capital. Over the past twelve months, Phoenix Shisanyama has become more than a hangout spot; it has transformed into a cultural nerve centre where weekends are shaped by anticipation and nights echo with song. By hosting a growing list of local and regional artists, the venue has played a central role in sparking renewed curiosity and enthusiasm for live performances in Gwanda, reminding residents of the shared joy that music brings.
Behind much of that momentum is Phoenix Shisanyama itself, one of the main drivers of the shows, guided by a deliberate focus on consistency rather than spectacle alone. From the outset, the aim was to build something dependable for the community, a place where entertainment was not an occasional treat but a regular, dependable presence.
“Our mission is to be the epitome of entertainment in Gwanda, and that is why we have maintained the momentum by hosting diverse and high-profile events,” said DJ Keitho, Phoenix Shisanyama entertainment manager. That mission has taken tangible shape over the past year, reflected in a calendar that has welcomed a vibrant mix of South African and Zimbabwean artists. Big names such as Makhadzi and Winky D have drawn eager crowds, their performances injecting the town with a buzz that lingered long after the final song. Alongside these stars, emerging local performers have also been given a platform, ensuring the spotlight is shared and that Gwanda’s own voices continue to grow in confidence and reach.
Yet the glamour of the stage hides the reality of what it takes to make such nights possible. DJ Keitho spoke openly about the challenges that come with staging events of this scale, particularly when coordinating with international artists. The process demands meticulous planning, patience and resilience, with countless details to manage before a single note is played.
“It is not easy organising events of this nature. There are regulations to follow and a lot of coordination involved, but our team has worked hard to make it happen,” he said.
Looking ahead, the vision extends beyond concerts and celebrations. DJ Keitho emphasised plans to widen Phoenix Shisanyama’s reach through collaborations that anchor entertainment firmly within the broader community. By partnering with local institutions, the aim is to nurture talent, inspire participation and create an environment where the arts can flourish organically.
These include the Municipality of Gwanda, schools and other stakeholders, as part of efforts to grow Gwanda’s entertainment sector.
With these plans taking shape, the anniversary show is expected to draw audiences from across the region, as word continues to spread that Gwanda is carving out its place as an emerging hub for live entertainment. What was once considered unlikely is gradually becoming a familiar reality, powered by consistency and a shared sense of pride.
For Asambe Gwanda founder Freddy K, the anniversary brings with it a moment to pause and reflect on how far the movement has come. He recalls the early days as tentative and unassuming, when ambition was tempered by uncertainty and success felt distant.
“Asambe Gwanda started off slowly, and at first I did not think we would reach a point of hosting major shows,” he said.
That early hesitation has since given way to quiet confidence, built one event at a time. As attendance grew and the community began to respond, the movement found its footing.
“Through consistency, we are now seeing the community responding, and this milestone reflects that growth”. The decision to headline the anniversary with Q Twins reflects that evolution. The duo, who rose to prominence after appearing on Idols South Africa, are expected to perform in Gwanda for the first time, bringing with them a polished blend of harmony and choreography that promises a memorable night. Their selection signals an openness to variety and a desire to expose local audiences to different styles and sounds.
Freddy K explained that the choice was a deliberate one, rooted in a vision of inclusivity and creative freedom.
“To kick off this milestone, we chose Q Twins because of their unique sound and performance style. We want to show that the movement has no boundaries when it comes to music and entertainment,” Freddy K said.
Local artists Zagoe Radge and Zhezhingtons will support the main act, grounding the night in familiar talent while sharing the stage with international performers. Their presence reflects the movement’s commitment to lifting local voices and ensuring that growth is shared rather than imported.
In addition, Freddy K noted that the two have played a role in nurturing upcoming talent through community events, reinforcing the idea that Asambe Gwanda is not merely about hosting shows, but about building a lasting creative culture. As the first anniversary approaches, the celebration stands as a reminder that with patience, consistency and community belief, even the quietest beginnings can grow into something that resonates far beyond a single night.
