ZIMBABWE Tourism Authority (ZTA) chief executive Karikoga Kaseke has promised bigger and better future editions of Intwasa Arts Festival in Bulawayo following a partnership between the tourism authority and the festival.
BY SINDISO DUBE
Kaseke was speaking at the festival’s official opening at the City Hall car park’s Chibuku Stage, which is the festival’s main stage, on Wednesday night. A huge crowd attended the official opening night.
“As ZTA, we have been approached by Intwasa officials for a partnership, we promise this festival will never be the same after this joint,” Kaseke said.
“The city hotels and lodges can’t be half-empty at a time a festival of this nature is being hosted, people should come from different parts of the country to witness Intwasa and fill the hotels. It should bring business to the city, not just entertainment.”
Kaseke promised a transformation in the next three years and described the festival as an opportunity for artists to market the country’s culture.
“The festival is an opportunity for upcoming artistes to showcase their abilities and also a window for the world to see through Zimbabwe’s culture and heritage,” he said.
The audience that attended the Chibuku-sponsored official opening was mesmerised by well-choreographed acts from local groups, Umkhati, IYASA, Impumelelo Shining Stars and jazz band Men at Work, among others.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
The festival director Raisedon Baya thanked festival attendees and partners that made the arts fete possible.
“We thank all who managed to come through. This project is not my project nor of a few people, but it’s for Bulawayo to embrace,” Baya said.
The festival, which kicked off on Tuesday will run until Sunday compressing various genres on many stages in the city.
