Zimpapers Logo

Melissa Mpofu and Innocent Kurira

It was a memorable weekend for locals in Bulawayo and Esigodini as back-to-back galas, showcasing diverse talents from across the country, took place on Friday and Saturday, delivering world-class performances.

The weekend kicked off with the SADC Anti-Sanctions Music Concert, organised by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services at Habane Stadium in Esigodini on Friday night.

Themed “Embracing Innovation Towards Vision 2030: The Relentless Fight Against Illegal Sanctions”, the concert brought together thousands of fans and prominent government figures.

Clad in the vibrant colours of the national flag, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, renowned for its revolutionary songs, was a crowd favourite.

They captivated the audience with powerful songs that highlighted the impact of sanctions on the country and its citizens, delivering a stirring performance that resonated deeply with the event’s theme.

The vibrant Jeys Marabini, fresh off the launch of his new album evoked nostalgia, transporting listeners back to the sweet melodies of yesteryear Africa.

Marabini engaged the crowd, leading them in a spirited sing-along to the popular refrain, “Into oyenzayo siyayizonda”, a powerful and symbolic response directed at those who imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe.

Acclaimed bassist and Cobra Kings Band leader, Simon Mutambi, was clearly in his elements on stage, showing no desire to leave even as the MCs signalled that he had exceeded his time.

This sentiment was shared by many performers, who found it difficult to end their sets, energised by the crowd’s enthusiastic appreciation that made every artiste reluctant to say goodbye.

What is a gala without Sandra Ndebele?

The dance queen and songstress was, as always, at her best, electrifying the crowd with her hit songs.

She took the opportunity to express her gratitude to the audience for their impressive turnout, sharing that galas hold a special place in her heart as they were pivotal to her rise in the music industry.

Rhumba music thrived at the gala, thanks to the lively performances of Godolude, Clement Magwaza and Madlela Skhobokobo.

Part of the crowd at the anti-sanctions gala at Habane Stadium in Esigodini.

The event drew positive reactions from the crowd, thrilled to see performances of this calibre in their hometown.

As dawn approached on Saturday, Esigodini’s festivities wound down, but the excitement was far from over.

By evening, the action had shifted to Bulawayo, where another impressive line-up took the stage at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre for the Zanu-PF Conference Gala.

Hundreds gathered to mark the end of the ruling party’s 21st Annual National People’s Conference, with performances by Mathias Mhere, Jeys Marabini, Peter Moyo, Khaya Arts, Ma9nine, and many more.

Khaya Arts opened the night with a captivating traditional dance routine that left the crowd in awe.  Fenny Dembo, daughter of legendary musician Leonard Dembo, brought nostalgia to the event with renditions of her father’s classics, including “Musharudziiko”.

Ma9nine, known for his hit “Chimuti”, solidified his position as a leading voice in Ndebele Zimdancehall with a powerful set.

Lady Storm with her energetic dance moves and Mathias Mhere with his well-choreographed gospel performance, kept the audience on their feet.

The Police Band was also in top form, delivering an engaging performance that resonated with the crowd.

However, similar to the Esigodini gala, due to the extensive line-up of artistes, the band had to leave the stage earlier than anticipated, just as they had fully connected with the audience, a decision that many felt cut their well-deserved time short.

Reggae specialists, Judgment Yard, added to the variety, with the latter bringing reggae vibes that resonated with fans.

Popular acts Selmor Mtukudzi, Diana Samkange and Peter Moyo also brought their “A” game, energising the crowd well into the night.

The weekend’s festivities brought together communities and left the region buzzing with activity and excitement, proving to be a resounding success.