Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
TSHOLOTSHO came alive over the weekend when Hwange Colliery Company hosted the inaugural Zimbabwe Rhumba Dance Fiesta in Matebeleland North, aimed at nurturing local musicians and strengthening community relations.
A high-energy musical event that brought together leading and emerging Rhumba artists from across the province to showcase their talent.
It was literally an invasion through song and dance, as the Rhumba fiesta, which is the first of its kind in Tsholotsho, cast the spotlight on the town.
Local artists like Mxolisi Mr Bones, Godolude and the Friendly Brothers showed that they are a force to reckon with as they showcased their talent alongside Dupute Warriors, Clement Magwaza, Insimbi ZeZhwane, Amathong’Amahle, Zinjaziyamluma, Mdawini and Izingonyama, Sizwa and Kwejani Band.
Bankrolled by Hwange Colliery Company, the event sought to identify and nurture emerging talent and give upcoming artistes an opportunity to perform before some of the region’s finest acts.
“Thanks to the Tsholotsho Family, who made us realise and appreciate that Zimbabwe Rhumba is a major part of the contemporary music culture and identity in Matabeleland. The talent in the region is just amazing, and to enhance our Social License to Operate ( SLO), this shall be an annual event. We are even thinking of calling it the “Zimbabwe Rhumba Day”, and it is a reflection of our commitment to building deeper community relationships in line with our sustainable coal stewardship,” Hwange Colliery Company Managing Director, Eng William Gambiza said.
“We are excited about what the Colliery Company is doing to uplift our artists in Matebeleland North. Music is an industry on its own, and besides entertaining our young people, they are earning a living. It is also placing our areas like Tsholotsho on the map, and for us as a province, we are happy,” Matebeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo said.
The Rhumba Fiesta comes barely two weeks after another successful gig in Hwange, which featured sungura maestro Alick Macheso and South African Amapiano sensation Nkosazana Daughter.
With such big acts, Matabeleland North is also carving its own niche in the local entertainment industry.
