Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
IN a few weeks, the country will celebrate its 45th Independence Day, one of the most important events on its calendar.
Several artistes and athletes scheduled to take part in the celebrations have promised first-rate performances.
The Midlands province has initiated plans to host the Uhuru festivities, themed “Zim@45: Devolve and develop together towards Vision 2030”.
The celebrations will take place at the Mutora Grounds in Nembudziya, Gokwe North district, on April 18. This marks a continuation of the shift from the traditional venue in Harare.
Since 2022, in line with the Second Republic’s decentralisation policy, the celebrations have been held in Bulawayo; Mt Darwin in Mashonaland Central; and Murambinda in Buhera, Manicaland province.
The event promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees, featuring engaging children’s programmes, impressive displays by the uniformed forces, thrilling soccer matches and a musical gala.
The Children’s Party, hosted by the First Family, is scheduled for April 17 at Nyamuroro High School.
A diversity of artistes, representing genres such as sungura, gospel, dancehall, mbira and Chimurenga, has been chosen to cater for all generations.
The musical gala, to be held at Nembudziya Government High School, will feature top artistes like Suluman Chimbetu, Mark Ngwazi, Jah Master, Andy Muridzo, Chief Hwenje, Tendai Dembo and Sasha aMadhuve.
Agatha Murudzwa will represent the gospel category and Sandra Ndebele will provide energetic dance performances.
Chief Hwenje has promised fans performance of new songs from his forthcoming album, set for release at the end of May.
“I have an album scheduled for release at the end of May and I think this will be an opportunity to share some of the songs,” he said.
“This day is very important because my grandfather was among those who fought for this country. He spent his life in and out of jail fighting for this country and I wish he was alive to witness what the country has achieved.”
The musician notes that the 2025 Uhuru celebrations are critical, not just for those in the Midlands, but for the nation as a whole, because of celebrating a common cause.
“We are grateful to the leadership for hosting these celebrations here in Gokwe, as it shows they are people-oriented and that no one is being left behind,” he said.
Tendai Dembo and the Barura Express are practising a new performance to appeal to both old and new generations.
“As a band, we are always prepared as that is our line of work and our duty is to please both old and new fans to the best of our capacity. I can promise this time we are going to deliver an extra-polished act,” he said.
“As Barura Express, it is always an honour and privilege to be recognised among so many artistes and be chosen at the national level to perform national duty.
“We greatly appreciate having such a platform and are truly grateful for the exposure we get at such events. For us, performance and rehearsal are everyday activities, but for this event specifically, we are working on a new performance to please all our fans, organisers and the nation.”
The celebrations will include a range of activities, featuring a football match between Simba Bhora and FC Platinum at the main event, while Herentals Queens and Black Rhinos will play at the Children’s Party.
Historically, the Independence Day celebrations have seen football giants Highlanders and Dynamos compete for the cup.
