Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Arts Editor
As the countdown to Heroes Holiday approaches, Zimbabweans around the world prepare to honour their national heroes and reflect on the rich history and culture of their homeland. This time of remembrance and celebration is particularly poignant for those in the diaspora, who often find themselves yearning for a connection to their roots.
A month before the Heroes celebrations, one of the most anticipated events for these communities, ZimFest UK, an annual musical fiesta that unites Zimbabweans through the power of music and cultural celebration, is taking place.
For many, this festival serves as a vibrant reminder of home, offering a unique opportunity to come together, celebrate their heritage, and enjoy performances from beloved artistes.
Organisers for this year’s ZimFest have announced that everything is in place for what promises to be an unforgettable event.
Scheduled for this weekend at the Herts Country Showground in London, the festival has grown significantly since its inception in 2001.
Initially launched to promote local talent abroad and unite Zimbabweans who yearned for a taste of home, ZimFest has blossomed into a cultural phenomenon.
With each passing year, it has attracted larger crowds and a more diverse line-up, making it one of the most significant events on the Zimbabwean diaspora calendar.
This year, attendees can look forward to performances from a stellar line-up of local artists, including Nisha Ts, Oriyano, Winky D, and Jah Signal.
They will share the stage with celebrated South African acts like Young Stunna and DJ Maphorisa.
The festival, which typically spans two days, will take place in a single day this year, a change that has generated excitement and anticipation among fans.
Festival goers have already begun to arrive from as far away as Scotland, Ireland, South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Germany, France, and Italy, eager to partake in the festivities and reconnect with their fellow Zimbabweans.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts Hub, festival operations manager Jan Paul expressed his enthusiasm about this year’s edition.
“We are happy with the progress so far, and already guests have started trickling in, checking in at their nearby hotels. Some of the artists are already making their way, and the stage is set for the much-awaited show,” he said.
Paul highlighted that in addition to the music, the festival will provide a platform for Zimbabweans in the diaspora to showcase their brands.
“Attendees can expect a variety of offerings, from fashion and food stalls to jewellery and gadgets that reflect Zimbabwean culture.”
He also mentioned that this year’s changes were made in response to feedback from previous festivals.
“We have made a few layout tweaks based on feedback, like moving the Sky Terrace closer to the stage and putting the kids’ zone right in the middle of everything so families feel more included,” he noted. “This focus on community and family reflects the festival’s mission to create an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the celebrations.”
When discussing the impressive line-up, Paul remarked on the festival’s strategic approach to selecting performers.
“We have had some amazing talent over the years from Winky D, ShaSha, Jah Prayzah, Thomas Mapfumo, DJ Zinhle, Holy Ten, Freeman, to Kikky among others. Some, like ExQ and Saintfloew, have come back more than once, which is always a good sign,” he said.
This year, the selection process involved conducting surveys and polls to ensure that the line-up resonates with the audience.
“We listen to our audience. We run surveys through email and social media, and we talk to people in person, too. Their input helps us shape each year’s line-up,” Paul explained. This commitment to community feedback underscores the festival’s dedication to representing the diverse interests of Zimbabweans abroad.
Ultimately, ZimFest has evolved into more than just a musical event; it is a celebration of community, culture, and connection. “It started as a way to bring Zimbabweans in the UK together, and it’s grown into something special for the whole diaspora,” Paul affirmed. As the festival approaches, the excitement is palpable among attendees, who are ready to unite in celebration of their shared heritage. This year’s ZimFest promises to be a vibrant tribute to the resilience and spirit of Zimbabweans around the world, making it a fitting celebration during this time of remembrance.
