Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SOUTH AFRICA-BASED seasoned Maskandi musician Zinjaziyamluma, is poised to leave a lasting impression on the genre as he joins a star-studded line-up for the launch of the Ubuhle Be Africa Pan-African Festival.
The three-day cultural extravaganza, running from July 25 to 27, has received the royal endorsement of the Zulu nation’s King Misizulu, who has given his blessing for the event to be held at the KwaKhangelankengane Royal Palace in Nongoma, northern KwaZulu-Natal.
The festival celebrates Africa’s rich cultural diversity by showcasing traditional music, dance, fashion and cuisine. It aims to foster unity and cultural pride across the continent through a vibrant display of artistic and cultural expression.
Zinjaziyamluma will proudly represent Zimbabwe as the only local artiste featured in the line-up. He will share the stage with Maskandi legends such as Shwi Mantombazana — his long-time inspiration — Thokozani Langa, Khuzani, Mthandeni, Limit Nana, Mzukulu, Mjolisi, and rising Maskandi star Njabulo Langa of Ngishile Nje fame. The line-up also includes cross-genre performances from DJ Tira, Kwaito icon Zola 7, as well as Big Zulu, Sjava and Zakwe.
Speaking from his base in South Africa, Zinjaziyamluma expressed his excitement at being part of the festival.
“It’s a huge honour to be part of this festival that celebrates Ubuntu and our culture. This is not just a Zulu festival, but one for all African ethnic groups. I’m proud to represent our Ndebele culture from Zimbabwe.
“Being selected for this event is a milestone for me, but I’m not new to such stages. I’ve performed at many Maskandi festivals before. This one is special because it’s endorsed by King Misizulu. I’m ready to give my best performance, and since my inspiration, Shwi, is also performing, there’s a high chance we’ll perform our song Vela Bakubone together,” he said.
Festival organiser Sinqobile Maphisa, revealed that the event will go beyond music, featuring traditional healers, Amabutho leaders, virginity testers and other cultural custodians, who will educate attendees about African heritage.
Hosting the inaugural edition at the Zulu Royal Palace, she said, was a tribute to the late Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu of KwaKhangelankengane, who had a deep appreciation for diverse African cultures.
“This festival is not only for the Zulu community; it is for all Africans because we are one. Our forefathers practiced intermarriages, among different Nguni ethnic groups and the rituals and customs show we share a common heritage.
“We have performers from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and Botswana. Our culture is one and we must remain united. We are fostering this unity through music, dance and traditional culinary experiences,” said Maphisa.
