Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Organisers of the popular Garden of House (GOH) event in Bulawayo have been forced to explain and adjust some of their latest rules after an outcry from fans, particularly over a controversial no re-entry policy – #UngenileUngenile.
GOH, which takes place each holiday and draws house music lovers (now referred to as garden boyz and house girlz) from across the country, and some from outside, announced last week that anyone leaving the venue would not be allowed back in without purchasing a new ticket. Entry bands would not be valid for re-entry. Organisers said the rule aimed to curb dishonest practices by some revellers.
The full list of rules also included: No Stanley cups, No outside professional equipment, No outside cups, No fighting, Cooler box limit: one bottle and a case until 4pm, and Golden Stage access only for those wearing local brands.
The no re-entry clause quickly drew criticism on social media, with some fans accusing organisers of “holding them hostage”.
“Don’t be surprised when you next host GOH and only a handful of people come because these rules will chase us away. No re-entry if I go out? Ngeke phela,” wrote one fan, Paul Cee Mak on Facebook.
“You’re about to ruin the one thing that was going so well in Bulawayo. What’s this?” commented another.
“Please re-evaluate your rules or the show will be the first to flop,” added Thabo Maseko.
Faced with mounting discontent, organisers today issued a statement making a partial U-turn just hours before the event kicks off.
“We would like to sincerely thank you for your continued love and support for our brand. We truly appreciate every one of you and the energy you bring to our events. As much as we value and enjoy hosting you, we also need to ensure that our business remains sustainable and profitable after each event,” the statement read.
On the no re-entry policy, organisers explained: “This directive was introduced because, unfortunately, some guests have been taking advantage of the system – leaving their tags loose to pass to friends outside, or reselling them at the gate for a fraction of the price. This directly impacts our operations and affects the viability of our events.”
Other clarifications included: Cooler Boxes: The limit remains one bottle plus 24 beers/ciders, not one bottle and a six-pack as some had understood.
Stanley Cups: Now permitted, but must be empty upon entry to prevent alcohol smuggling.
“These measures are in place not to limit your fun, but to protect the experience for everyone while keeping the event alive and thriving,” organisers added.
Garden of House has become more than just a party, it is a gathering point for house music enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the genre and a fashion-forward space where the “gardeners” show off their trendiest outfits.
