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Mbulelo Mpofu,[email protected]

The annual Intwasa Arts Festival KoBulawayo is set to return to its traditional September dates, after being held in November last year. The festival, which celebrates the city’s vibrant cultural heritage, will take place from September 24 to 27 this year.

Raisedon Baya, the festival’s director, explained the importance of the event’s return to its original month.
“Intwasa is tied to a specific time of the year – the Spring season. It’s named after that season, and the festival must take place during that period. Our hope is that every edition happens in September. That’s our time,” Baya explained.

Baya is optimistic of the event’s success, citing the success of the “Become a Friend of Intwasa” fundraising initiative launched earlier this year. The initiative aims to raise US$20 from 50 supporters to empower young talents in poetry, hip-hop, dance, writing, and music. The funds will support innovative performances and provide emerging artists with exposure, confidence, and the opportunity to develop their craft.
“The ‘Friends of Intwasa’ initiative is gaining momentum. People are coming forward, some supporting immediately, others asking for more information. Our community loves to support good causes, and they want to invest in something that benefits the less privileged,” Baya shared.

Baya shared the critical role of public support for the festival, especially given the economic challenges.
“Public support is vital. Supporting the festival will bring the community closer. Supporters can influence programming and other aspects because they will be investing in the brand. We want people to be part of the festival, not just as consumers but as investors in the event,” he said.

As the festival continues to gain traction, Baya remains hopeful about its success.
“We are optimistic. We keep praying. Things are tough, but anything can happen. But we always say, ‘Ithendele elihle ngelikhala ligijima.’ While we run and organise, we stay hopeful. We are a miracle that happens every year. So, fingers crossed as always.”

With its return to September, the Intwasa Arts Festival KoBulawayo is set to reclaim its position as one of the city’s most anticipated events and Zimbabwe’s oldest festival.

Synonyms for “KoBulawayo”