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Melissa Mpofu/Innocent Kurira, Chronicle Writers

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.

The night united the crowd in advocating for the unconditional removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the US and EU, setting the stage for a powerful display of music and patriotism.

Jeys Marabini performing at SADC Anti-Sanctions gala

A stellar line-up of performers kept the audience captivated with a well-curated mix of rhumba, dancehall, jazz, and dance.
Clad in the vibrant colours of the national flag, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, renowned for their 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.

Iyasa demonstrated exactly why they are one of Zimbabwe’s most cherished cultural exports, delivering a performance that held the crowd’s attention from start to finish. Dressed in retro outfits, the group danced to classic tunes, combining artistry and precision in a way that showcased their unique flair. Their performance showed why they are highly sought after, not just locally but on the international stage.

Khaya Arts performing at the Zanu-PF conference gala

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 element 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, in her element, 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.

Amapiano and house musician Jaycee Rapaddict, known for his hit Ungayithi Vhu, was a fantastic addition to the line-up, bringing vibrant energy to the event for fans of the popular genre. Performing alongside the dynamic Mzoe7, their set was exactly what the audience needed, igniting the crowd and keeping everyone lively as they jumped up and down in response to the infectious beats.

Rhumba music thrived at the gala, thanks to the lively performances of Godolude, Clement Magwaza and Madlela Skhobokobo. Accompanied by their energetic dancers, the musicians kept the audience thoroughly entertained, demonstrating that with the right support, artistes from Matabeleland have immense potential to shine on larger stages. The event drew positive reactions from the crowd, thrilled to see performances of this calibre in their hometown.

“Our town rarely has big shows, so we’d like to thank the government for bringing this gala here,” said local resident Sarah Nkiwane, adding to the sentiments shared by many in the audience.

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 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 at Zanu-PF Conference gala

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 Zimbabwe Republic 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 Judgement 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.

Throughout the evening, MCs Shugetta, Sarah Dee, and DJ Masomera kept spirits high, as the show ran into the early hours of Sunday, leaving fans thoroughly entertained and appreciative of the unique opportunity to enjoy such remarkable performances at no cost.

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