Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AS Zimbabwe prepares to honour its national heroes, ZKS Spinners Arena is commemorating this year’s Heroes Day in a unique and inclusive way by collaborating with inmates from Khami Prison for a special celebration event scheduled for August 11.
In a move aimed at promoting unity and rehabilitation, the car spinning event will feature prisoners as vendors, showcasing and selling products they have crafted through vocational training in farming, carpentry, sewing, and welding. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase vegetables, chickens, goats, and hand-crafted goods, directly supporting the inmates’ efforts towards self-sufficiency.
The initiative was inspired by Zakhele Mlilo, director of ZKS Spinners Arena, following his visit to Khami Prison last month where he donated blankets, plates, and tools — including woodworking hacksaws — to enhance vocational training programmes within the facility.
“We saw it fit to involve the inmates in Heroes Day celebrations because they, too, are part of the society and deserve a second chance. Some of them will soon return to the community, and this event is a platform to promote their reintegration,” said Mlilo, who is also a former member of the Zimbabwe National Army and serves on the prison board of visitors.
Mlilo emphasised that Heroes Day should be commemorated by all Zimbabweans, including inmates, as the sacrifices made by liberation heroes were for everyone, regardless of status.
“Heroes Day is for everyone. Our fallen and living heroes fought for freedom without discrimination. By participating in this celebration, inmates experience a sense of purpose, which is key to their rehabilitation,” he said.
The family-friendly event will feature thrilling burn-out sessions with top local spinners such as AK 47, Mac D, Amakhosi, The Rock, and King Fly taking centre stage. Additional attractions will include horse riding and ostrich viewing experiences.
Adding to the festivities, award-winning Tshibilika group Insimbi ZeZhwane will deliver a live performance. The group expressed their pride in being part of the occasion.
“This is more than a show — it’s a tribute to those who fought for our freedom.
“We’re proud to be part of it,” said Brema, the group’s frontman.
