Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
YOUNG performers were among 120 creatives featured at yesterday’s Culture Month launch celebrations, as they impressed audiences with energetic displays that reflected the “catch them young” spirit at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo.
President Mnangagwa was the guest of honour at the event, which attracted Government officials, ambassadors, and 26 chiefs from across Zimbabwe, schoolchildren and thousands of other attendees.
The 30 young performers were drawn from primary schools including Amaveni, Rangemore and Mkhithika Thebe. These schools emerged as the top three performers from Bulawayo at the 2025 Jikinya Dance Festival, earning them a place on a much bigger stage.
The children were part of a 30-minute large-scale cultural production that brought together dance, theatre, music and storytelling. The production 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.
They were supported by seasoned artistes who added experience and flair to the performance. These included Amaqaqa, Gog’Bekezela, Butholezwe Ntini, Iyasa, Thandanani Women’s 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 wide range of traditional dances. Most of these came from Matabeleland and included Hosanna, Ingquzu, Amabhiza, Isitshikitsha and Umdadada, alongside other artistic expressions from different parts of Zimbabwe.
Choreographer Richard Ndlovu said the decision to include schoolchildren in the production was deliberate, as organisers wanted to ensure that culture is passed on to the younger generation.
“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 stage performances, the celebrations also featured exhibitions aimed at educating schoolchildren and members of the public about Zimbabwean culture and history. Among the exhibitors was Highlanders Football Club, which is celebrating 100 years this year.
The club’s participation added a unique cultural element to the event, given its strong roots in Ndebele heritage and identity. Founded by the sons of King Lobengula, Highlanders has grown beyond being just a football club to become a symbol of unity, pride and cultural preservation for the Ndebele people and the nation as a whole.
Another notable exhibition was presented by the Joshua Nkomo National Foundation, which displayed personal belongings of the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, widely regarded as a champion of culture.
Foundation representative Hloniphani Nkomo said they were honoured to take part in the event, as it gave them an opportunity to share Dr Nkomo’s history and cultural beliefs. He added that such gatherings are important in reminding people of their identity, heritage and pride.
Another exhibitor, cultural chef Prince Sivalo Mahlangu, also expressed his appreciation for being part of the celebrations. The founder of Magriza Made Me Cook said the event provided a platform for him to educate people about traditional Ndebele cuisine, which was enjoyed by previous generations and is still valued today.
Mahlangu showcased a variety of indigenous dishes, noting that traditional food plays an important role in preserving culture and identity. He said it also helps reconnect communities with their roots through the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Nicholas Moyo, who was also the master of ceremonies and led the organising team, praised the people of Bulawayo for attending the event 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 schoolchildren 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.
