Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWE’S internationally acclaimed cultural ensemble, IYASA, is strengthening its role in raising awareness about climate change.
The group has just returned from a successful tour of Germany, where it used theatre and music to engage audiences on the global environmental challenge.
Led by founder and director Nkululeko Dube, the six-member group staged a series of productions that explored climate change and its impact on communities, while using the tour as an opportunity for cultural exchange with international stakeholders and young learners.
Dube said the experience had reinforced the need for collective action, noting that climate change was no longer a challenge confined to developed countries but a global concern affecting Africa and Zimbabwe as well. “Overall, the tour of Germany was a major success, as we joined other players in raising awareness about climate change,” Dube told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“During the tour, our six-member group visited major cities, including Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Düsseldorf and Munich.
“We encountered some language barriers, although English is also taught in many schools.
“The experience was an eye-opener, as we realised that climate change had become a global challenge from which Africa and Zimbabwe are not spared.”
IYASA captured the attention of audiences, using the power of theatre to communicate the urgency of environmental action.
Their productions included Climate of Change, Radio Freedom, Rise Up, Welcome to Africa, How Is the Weather? Sisonke, Amanzi: The Water Ghost, Schlaf Gut Susser Mond, Black & White Ain’t No Colours, Voices of Change and African Thunder.
The works were well received by international audiences.
Dube said the tour culminated in a cultural exchange programme that attracted theatre enthusiasts and young learners from various schools.
“Although the tour was primarily a cultural exchange initiative, we also focused on issues relating to climate change and the measures that can be taken to mitigate its effects,” he said.
Looking ahead, IYASA are already preparing for more international engagements, with performances in Austria lined up for 2027.
“We are now looking beyond 2026, as we have already been booked for more shows in Austria in 2027. We have been performing in Austria for more than 10 years, and many people there are now familiar with the productions we have showcased over the years. I am also proud of the feedback we received overseas, as everything went according to plan.”
The German tour also served as a precursor to a major milestone for the institution, which is celebrating its Silver Jubilee this year.
Dube said IYASA was planning two major shows, one in Bulawayo and the other in Harare, subject to the availability of resources.
“As we promised before, we have lined up two major shows — one in Bulawayo and the other in Harare — if resources permit.
“We are going to engage our existing partners, who have stood by us over the years, while also reaching out to new partners to make the silver jubilee celebrations a success. Twenty-five years in the game is a huge milestone for us, and it gives us an opportunity to reflect on our achievements over the years.”
He added: “As I said in our previous interview, IYASA is an institution, and we are proud to be marking this significant milestone,” he said.
“As a group, we have won more than 30 awards, and that alone means a lot to us. We are proud to have persevered and reached this stage. I am also grateful for the support we have received, which has helped us endure over the years.”
Among IYASA’s notable alumni are Sandra Ndebele; Nkwali, whose real name is Nomathamsanqa Mkwananzi; Futurelove Sibanda, who is based in Austria; Mamozi Roben Mlauzi, who is based in the Czech Republic; Silethemba Magonya; Pepsi Magonya, who is based in Australia; Asante Mo, also known as Bekithemba Phiri and Newman Gondwe; DJ Prince Esikhosini; Lemoniq, whose real name is Gugulethu Moyo; Prelude Sibindi, who is based in South Africa; Michelle Msopero, who is based in China; and Nqobile Malinga, a ZBC news presenter and producer.
