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with a ceremony that promises fireworks.
It appears the holiday has been exciting with lots in store for teenagers. Indeed, the teenagers got a real treat at Hifa and Cottco where they didn’t just enjoy, but also developed their skills.
As has been the case in previous years, this year was no exception with the battle of schools showcasing their colourful uniforms, swag and intimidating war cries.
With regards to the schools rugby festival, the highlight was the inclusion of a foreign school, the Windhoek team from Namibia. Their first opening match against local Petra High School saw the teenagers learning different skills and tactics.
The game received mixed feelings from teenagers as many were shocked by the participation of the two teams.
“The Windhoek team displayed a world class match. Their dribbling was out of this world and local schools learnt a thing or two.
“The participation of girls’ teams proved that it is not only a gentleman’s game,” said Tanyanyiwa Makura (16) from Helensvale.
Tanyanyiwa, a staunch fan of Cottco festival, said gone are the days when the festival was all about the game.
He said it was all about fancy cars, the iPad, the smartphones and sneakers among others.
Just like what happens at the Super Bowl in the United States, during half-time there is entertainment of which this year the festival followed suit.
Popular dance outfit from Mbare, Ghetto Kreepers who were the guest entertainers put up scintillating performances when they danced to hit songs like “Alingo”, “Azonto”, “Gangnam Style” and “Seunononga” among others.
The group was easily the crowd’s favourite. The youngest in the group Iky (9) was the hero as he did a solo which could make Usher green with envy.
Moving on to Hifa, the Simba Youth Zone was full of action with lots of swag and talent.
The fashion and swag topped at Hifa showing the cultural diversity. From mohawk to hair chalk, thumbs up to Hifa, they upped their game.
Children of all ages showcased their talents in poetry, music, dance and painting. They also had an opportunity to attend the workshops, book reading and storytelling by renowned local and international artistes.
Schools such as Dominican Convent, Arundel, Chisipite, Prince Edward, and dance crews the likes of Flip-Floopers among others took centre stage at the popular zone.
At the “Out in the Wild” stage under Youth Zone last Thursday children were taught about the cultural heritage through traditional games.
“I loved the folk tales, pada, nhodo and tsoro games. At home we no longer play these games because of modern technology. It’s either you on Whatsapp or Playstation which are anti-social,” said Pamela Mukare (18) of Borrowdale
“Ndeipi Gen’a” of Chipawo conducted camera and film workshop where children learnt how to broadcast and later had an opportunity to conduct live interviews.
Think of face painting, candy floss, toffee apples and sugar shake all were under one roof. This year the festival improved especially on the Youth Zone as all ages were catered for.
“I liked the art display by the children from different schools,” said Tatenda Manangi from Dzivaresekwa.
Award-winning B Boy crew Flip-Floopers recently revealed that they will leave no stone unturned to ensure their dominance on the dance scene. The group that performed on Wednesday comprises four friends and they promised to claim the number one spot.
“I appreciate the support we got from fans and parents. The cheers gives us more energy. We continue to dominate and I thank the organisers for such platform,” said Rahim Solomon, manager of the group.
At the Simba Cave, the laughter workshop by Celina Stockhill proved that laughter is the best medicine to cure your stress and depression. Everyone enjoyed the workshop as not only Stockhill cracked jokes, but the team taught the children the importance of laughter in our daily lives.
Online Reporter