Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RADIO Bukalanga is set to once again bring the spirit of Kalanga culture to life, as it hosts the second edition of the Mwedzi Wagala Cultural Festival this weekend at Nguwanyana Village in Mangwe District, Matabeleland South Province.
The two-day celebration, running from Friday to Saturday, will be held under the theme:
“Community Radio, Culture and Climate Change: Celebrating Cultural Voices.”
The festival aims to promote Kalanga traditions and heritage while spotlighting the vital role of community radio in preserving indigenous identities and raising awareness of pressing issues such as climate change.
Radio Bukalanga station manager, Yvonne Buzwane, said the event is not only a cultural gathering but also a platform for meaningful dialogue.
“The festival highlights the role of the community radio station in engaging and educating communities. We want to show how culture can offer solutions to challenges like climate change, while also celebrating our language and identity through traditional food, games, dances and storytelling,” Buzwane said.
She said that the festival’s name, Mwedzi Wagala, is inspired by a popular Kalanga poem, Woya Mwedzi Wagala.
“We believe Radio Bukalanga plays the role of the moon in that poem — a light bearer to the community, guiding with knowledge, pride and unity,” she said.
Institutions of higher learning that teach or research Kalanga culture — including the United College of Education, Midlands State University and Joshua Mqabuko Polytechnic — are expected to participate in the celebrations.
The local community has also shown strong support for the initiative, raising funds for two beasts to be slaughtered for communal feasting.
The festival will be officially opened on Friday, with the Deputy Minister of ICT and Courier Services, Honourable Dingumuzi Phuthi, expected to attend as the guest of honour. Mangwe MP, Vincent Sihlabo, is also set to grace the festivities on the opening day.
Saturday’s grand finale will feature a vibrant live music showcase, bringing together both established acts and emerging talent.
Headliners include: Tjilenje Tje Ngwao, King Adiza, Sotsha Moyo, DJ Hugoe, Isaac Maleyi, Babongile Sibanda, Bana Bana Bantogwa, Corria, Richard Bantolo, The Vibes Traditional Dance Group and Dziba Lemvula.
With Radio Bukalanga’s reach extending into both Zimbabwe and Botswana, the festival is expected to attract audiences from across the border — reinforcing its status as a cross-cultural celebration of Kalanga heritage. —@themkhust
