Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Young performers were among 120 creatives featured at yesterday’s Culture Month launch celebrations, embodying the “catch them young” spirit as they captivated audiences at the cultural gathering held at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo.
President Mnangagwa was the guest of honour at the event, which drew Government officials, ambassadors, 26 chiefs from across Zimbabwe, school pupils and thousands of attendees.
The 30 young performers were drawn from primary schools including Amaveni, Rangemore and Mkhithika Thebe, which emerged as the top three performers from Bulawayo at the 2025 Jikinya Dance Festival.
The children were incorporated into a 30-minute large-scale cultural production that fused dance, theatre, music and storytelling. The production’s creative team was led by producer and director Saimon “Mambazo” Phiri, choreographer Mehluli “Gomez” Dube and assistant choreographer Richard Ndlovu, while Joseph Ngubo of Umkhathi Theatre Works served as stage manager.
Seasoned artistes who complemented the young performers included Amaqaqa, Gog’Bekezela, Butholezwe Ntini, Iyasa, Thandanani Womens Ensemble, Umkhathi Theatre Works, Khaya Arts and Bolamba, among others.
In line with this year’s Culture Month theme, “Cultural Diversity: Advancing Vision 2030,” the production showcased a variety of traditional dances, predominantly from Matabeleland, including Hosanna, Ingquzu, Amabhiza, Isitshikitsha and Umdadada, alongside other artistic expressions from across Zimbabwe.
Choreographer Richard Ndlovu said the inclusion of school children in the production was deliberate, as organisers sought to ensure that traditional dance and cultural practices are passed on to younger generations.
“These children performed exceptionally well at last year’s Jikinya Dance Festival and, because of their talent, we saw it fit to include them in this large-scale production. Their performance proved that they deserve to be part of such platforms.
“Culture must be passed from one generation to another and by including them, we believe we have played our part in preserving our heritage. Even the President visibly enjoyed their performance, which shows the potential these young artistes possess,” said Ndlovu.
Beyond the main production, the celebrations also featured exhibitions aimed at educating schoolchildren and members of the public about Zimbabwean culture and history.
Among the exhibitors was Highlanders FC, which is celebrating 100 years of existence this year. The club’s participation added a unique cultural dimension to the event, given its deep roots in Ndebele heritage and identity. Founded by the sons of King Lobengula, Bosso has evolved beyond being a football institution to become a symbol of unity, pride and cultural preservation among the Ndebele people and the nation at large.
Another notable exhibition came from the Joshua Nkomo National Foundation, which displayed personal belongings of the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, who was also regarded as a cultural champion. Foundation representative Hloniphani Nkomo said they were honoured to exhibit at the celebrations as it provided an opportunity to share Dr Nkomo’s history and cultural beliefs. He said such gatherings are important in constantly reminding citizens of their identity, heritage and pride.
Another exhibitor, cultural chef Prince Sivalo Mahlangu expressed gratitude for being part of the event. The founder of Magriza Made Me Cook said the platform allowed him to educate people about traditional Ndebele cuisine once enjoyed by ancestors and still cherished today. Mahlangu showcased a range of indigenous dishes, saying traditional cuisine helps preserve heritage and cultural identity across generations while reconnecting communities with their roots through indigenous foods and traditional methods of preparation.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Nicholas Moyo, who also served as MC and led the organising team, praised Bulawayo residents for attending the celebrations in large numbers.
“We’re extremely happy that this year’s Culture Month celebrations were held here in Bulawayo, which is the home of culture. Thousands of people attended and we’re delighted that school children also participated in appreciating our culture through poetry, music, fashion and dance.
“Bulawayo lived up to its reputation and we can confidently say it’s indeed a cultural hub. The event strongly highlighted the preservation of indigenous traditions, languages and customs while promoting national unity and cultural tourism.
“We also honour President Mnangagwa for allowing us to host these celebrations in the City of Kings,” said Moyo.
