Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SHEBEEN vibes will take centre stage this Sunday as the Shebeen Festival makes its much-anticipated return to Bulawayo, bringing another celebration of township culture.
Set to take place at Happy Valley Tavern, the second edition follows the success of the inaugural event held on December 16, 2023. The festival continues to gain momentum as a cultural movement, celebrating social connection through music, dance and nostalgia.
Spearheaded by arts enthusiast Belinda “Sister” Maseko, the festival seeks to revive the rich social and musical traditions that once defined Bulawayo’s western suburbs.
“Shebeen Festival is an event that brings together people from different suburbs, starting from Makokoba, the oldest township where I was born and raised,” said Sister.
Driven by a deep personal connection to township life, Sister shared the inspiration behind the event.
“I went to school through money earned from the shebeen. Watching people come together through music inspired me to start this festival as a way to reconnect and celebrate our roots.”
She said the entertainment line-up will feature Band Fusion and Ramsey K, both renowned for their ability to perform township music that once dominated shebeens.
“These bands can play music from legends like Hugh Masekela, Stimela, Sankomota, Lovemore Majaivana, Soul Brothers, Splash, Dalom Kids, By4 and many others. People should expect so much fun — it’s hard to even put it into words,” she said.
Shebeens in Bulawayo have long been more than just drinking spots. They are cultural hubs deeply rooted in the city’s township history. Originating during colonial times, when Black Zimbabweans were barred from accessing licensed bars, shebeens emerged as spaces of resistance, socialisation, and cultural expression.
In suburbs such as Makokoba, Mzilikazi and Nguboyenja, shebeens provided not only entertainment but also economic opportunities — particularly for women known as “shebeen queens”, who ran them to support their families. Over time, they evolved into key centres for music, storytelling and political dialogue.
Today, festivals like the Shebeen Festival aim to preserve and reimagine this rich heritage, celebrating the communal spirit and musical legacy that defined shebeen culture. — @mthabisi_mthire
