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Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

INKULULEKO Yabatsha School of Arts (Iyasa), a distinguished arts institution in Bulawayo, has suffered a severe setback following a break-in and ransacking of their offices.

Iyasa revealed the burglary via their official Facebook page on Friday.

Iyasa said valuable items stolen include six prestigious awards, leaving the group and local arts community devastated. 

The stolen awards are three National Arts Merit Awards for Outstanding Dance Ensemble, two Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards for Outstanding Dance Ensemble and a Nama Legend accolade, presented to their director, Nkululeko Innocent Dube, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the arts.

The stolen awards hold immense significance to Iyasa, symbolising their unparalleled excellence and impact in the realm of dance and performance arts. 

Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards

In addition to their accolades, a PA system mixer and other office materials were also stolen in the break-in.

Iyasa promptly reported the burglary to the police and is also seeking the assistance of the public in locating the stolen awards and appealing to anyone with relevant information to come forward.

The stolen gongs represent not only their remarkable accomplishments, but also their unwavering commitment to excellence in the arts.

Any information or leads regarding the whereabouts of these awards would be greatly appreciated by Iyasa and the entire arts community. 

This is not the first time that a burglary of this nature has hit the arts sector. 

Back in the day, six African artefacts were stolen from the country’s main gallery. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu