Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
Despite a lower-than-expected turnout, the Umahlekisa Comedy Club’s roast of Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart proved to be a resounding success, with organiser Ntando Van Moyo applauding the quality of the show and its impact.
Held at the Bulawayo Theatre on Saturday, the event drew just over 100 attendees, but delivered a powerful blend of humour and civic reflection that left a lasting impression.
Director of Umahlekisa Comedy Club, Ntando Van Moyo, who also hosted the show, said the event marked a step in the right direction for the city’s growing comedy scene.
“Having over 100 people attend shows that we’re moving in the right direction. The panel delivered powerful comedic blows that also raised serious concerns about the state of our city.”
The evening, themed around satire and social commentary, used humour as a vehicle to address key urban issues affecting Bulawayo, particularly cleanliness, a cause closely linked to the mayor’s office and residents alike.
Moyo said the platform was intentionally designed not just for entertainment, but to foster unity and amplify local talent.
“Every year, we identify ideal candidates for this platform, and this time it was Mayor David Coltart. Beyond celebrating his leadership, the roast was meant to foster unity and provide a stage for local comedic talent,” said Moyo.
While acknowledging the modest turnout, he noted that the event’s significance went beyond numbers.
“This was a learning curve. Some assumed the roast was politically affiliated and chose not to attend. But such platforms actually bridge the gap between leaders and the communities they serve,” he said.
The roast featured a dynamic panel that included Um’Africakazi, Philani A Nyoni, Ricky, Tanya Alex, Honourable Discent Collins Bajila, Doug Bramsen, and Doc Vikela, who travelled from Harare. Their performances blended sharp wit with insightful commentary, drawing connections between the mayor’s personal journey and the city’s social realities.
For a wider reach, the event was streamed live across Zimpapers’ digital platforms, including Chronicle, Sunday News, B-Metro, and Umthunywa, ensuring audiences beyond Bulawayo could be part of the experience.
In a notable philanthropic gesture, part of the proceeds from the event will go towards purchasing litter bins for the city, an initiative set to be officially commissioned by Mayor Coltart.
Ultimately, the roast proved that even with a smaller audience, the power of comedy to spark dialogue and drive civic awareness remains strong – reinforcing Bulawayo’s growing reputation as a hub for creative expression with purpose.
