Organisers in Bulawayo are deep in preparation for the highly anticipated Ubuntu Culture Night, scheduled for the 20th of December at the Zimbabwe Academy of Music.
Building on the resounding success of its inaugural event last year, the celebration promises to be an even grander showcase of the region’s profound artistic diversity.
The driving force behind the event, Patriarch Joel Welcome ‘Bhila’ Manyabi, confirmed that plans were progressing steadily, with approximately half of the preparations already complete.
In a call for further collaboration, he emphasised that partners were still being sought to help realise the vision of making this the most significant cultural night yet witnessed in the city.
“We aim to make this the biggest cultural night Bulawayo has ever seen,” said Bhila.
This year’s line-up has been carefully curated to reflect a richness of local talent.
Confirmed performers include the internationally acclaimed a cappella group Nobuntu, the dynamic and celebrated Leslie ‘Black Diva’ Muleya, and the deeply respected cultural custodian Gog’ Bekezela.
They will be joined by artists Maluka, Bhila himself, the energetic Mahlaba, and the traditional ensemble Ihawu lesizwe, ensuring a vibrant and engaging programme for all attendees.
The Ubuntu Culture Night serves as a vital platform to celebrate the distinct cultural heritage of Matabeleland.
The inaugural event last year at the Bulawayo Theatre successfully brought together a stellar array of poets, dancers, musicians, and fashion designers, setting a high benchmark for quality and community spirit.
With a compelling roster of artists and dedicated organisers working behind the scenes, the 2025 Ubuntu Culture Night is poised to be a landmark event.
It aims to not only entertain but also to solidify Bulawayo’s standing as a central hub for artistic expression and cultural preservation in Zimbabwe, offering a powerful testament to the unifying spirit of ubuntu.
