Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Bulawayo is bracing for a full-blown party invasion as the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) wraps up in style, with the Harris Music Festival promising a no-holds-barred shutdown this Saturday at the Bulawayo Athletic Club.
What started as a simple curtain-closer has morphed into one of the city’s most talked-about gigs, a magnet for thrill-seekers, music lovers and out-of-town visitors looking to squeeze the last drop of fun from ZITF week.
And this year, it’s stacked.
Dancehall heavyweight Winky D returns to a stage he knows all too well, ready to stir the crowd once again after owning previous editions.
Sharing the spotlight are home-grown favourites Msiz’kay, Tiff, DJ Sfiso, Prince Eskhosini and DJ Eugy, while MC duties fall to the ever-vibrant MTKay Ntwana, who is fresh from hosting a world-class event in the United States.
But it doesn’t stop there, the regional flavour is loud.
South Africa’s firecracker Makhadzi is set to headline alongside a sizzling line-up that includes Kamo Mphela, Scotts Maphuma and NaakMusiQ, while Maskandi star Mthandeni SK throws in a cultural twist. Insiders say some of the SA acts are already en route, adding to the weekend buzz sweeping across the city.
Also in the mix are rising and seasoned performers like Cowboii, Tracy, Thukuthela, Jazz Worx and GL Ceejay — a blend that keeps the energy unpredictable and the crowd on its toes.
Behind the scenes, organisers are racing against time to fine-tune the final details, with indications that this could be one of the biggest turnouts yet.
Event organiser Tonderai Rice said everything is falling into place, with artistes beginning to arrive in the city.
“It’s all systems go. Some of the performing artistes from South Africa will start arriving in Bulawayo on Friday afternoon, with Mthandeni SK leading the pack, while the rest will arrive on Saturday,” he said.
“The city is really buzzing, and we looking forward to accommodating everyone. The reception is very positive as many are coming for this gig. This has led us to secure parking for vehicles at nearby places to ensure that attendees are not inconvenienced in any way,” said Rice.
Regular performer Msiz’Kay is among those itching to hit the stage again and has promised fireworks.
“This festival has stood the test of time and it has been growing each year. I am grateful to have been associated with this movement because I believe it’s one of the spaces that has allowed me to grow personally and career-wise.
“I am ready for my set and like always, my display will be full of energy. I am looking forward to having a great time,” said Msiz’ Kay.
With anticipation building and Bulawayo already in party mode, all signs point to a chaotic, electric and unforgettable ZITF send-off.
