Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena [email protected]
The 2026 Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF) is set to conclude on Saturday with the Tshibilika/Rhumba Concert, which will be held at the White City Stadium.
The show returns following a successful debut last year, when hundreds of fans braved the winter cold to attend the inaugural event at the Large City Hall Car Park.
Buoyed by the overwhelming response, organisers have moved the concert to White City Stadium to accommodate a larger audience and improve accessibility for fans across the city.
This year’s line-up features returning favourites Godolude and Phikisani Super Sounds, alongside fast-rising artiste Maqedimbuzi, who emerges as one of the genre’s standout performers, so far this year.
Veteran entertainer Themba “Boyoyo” Mathe will also take to the stage. A former member of Mokis Connection, Boyoyo is widely recognised for his contribution to the growth of Tshibilika and Rhumba music in Bulawayo.
Some of his popular songs include Basiboy, Abafana Be Mokis, Wafa Wafa Mthakathi and Masibanda.
Santoyizo and several emerging artistes are also expected to take to the stage, reflecting the blend of established and upcoming talent within the genre.
The event will be hosted by radio presenter Benkosi “BKay” Maphosa, and comedian Spikiri.
Popular for his role alongside Gog’ Nasinginyo and appearances on the radio drama series Amadramatics, Spikiri is expected to add comic relief to the entertainment-filled programme.
The concert marks the climax of this year’s Bulawayo Arts Festival, which celebrated the city’s creative sector through music, theatre, dance, poetry, literature and visual arts, throughout the week.
With free entry and a star-studded line-up, organisers are anticipating a strong turnout as the curtain comes down on the 2026 BAF.
