Umahlekisa to roast Mayor Coltart

Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

THE city of Bulawayo is about to experience an evening filled with laughter and a liberal dose of good-natured ribbing, as Umahlekisa Comedy Club hosts a roast in honour of the city’s Mayor, David Coltart, on April 11, 2026.

As Bulawayo continues to establish itself as a comedy hub, this event promises not only to entertain, but to engage citizens in a meaningful conversation about civic responsibility and cleanliness.

Director of Umahlekisa, Ntando Van Moyo, said the idea for the roast was inspired by the need to highlight the importance of celebrating local leaders with humour.

“As a comedy club, we are always on the lookout for ideal candidates for a roast annually. This year, the club decided to shine the spotlight on Coltart, recognising that a good roast could foster togetherness and a sense of community, while also giving a platform for local comedians to showcase their talent,” said Moyo.

Coltart is no stranger to public engagements, and his acceptance of the roast reflects a progressive approach to leadership. Responding to the initiative, Coltart said he was happy to participate in anything that promotes cleanliness in the city or supports those doing that work.

“I realise that part and parcel of this involves being roasted. I often say that one should not go into the kitchen unless you can take the heat, and the same applies to politicians. Politicians are normal human beings, but we sometimes put ourselves on pedestals and think we are immune from criticism. As long as the humour is not vulgar or racist, I have reasonably thick skin and hopefully will be able to bear what is thrown at me,” said Coltart.

Moyo praised Coltart’s supportive office, noting that, “he welcomed the roast well”, and his office has been supportive of our efforts to make Bulawayo the hub of comedy, as well as creating a lucrative comedy tourism destination.

“This collaborative spirit is exactly what the city needs to uplift our arts scene and build a sense of pride, as we encourage our citizens to safeguard the cleanliness status of Bulawayo,” said Moyo.

As anticipation builds for the roast, Umahlekisa is carefully curating a panel of comedians and Coltart’s close associates, with Moyo emphasising that it is important to have diverse voices that can provide various perspectives on what it means to roast a public figure.

“The aim is to ensure that the humour remains light-hearted, while touching on pertinent issues that affect the city, particularly in terms of its reputation for cleanliness,” said Moyo.

In a philanthropic twist, part of the proceeds from the event will be dedicated to buying litter bins for the city, which will be officially commissioned by Coltart.

“This roast represents not only a night of laughter and entertainment, but also an opportunity to engage with issues that matter in our community. Bulawayo can look forward to a unique blend of comedy and civic pride,” said Moyo.