THE second edition of the Phinifa Festival is set to return to Bulawayo on August 15, promising a bigger and more inclusive celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through fashion, food, music and the arts.
The festival, which will be held at Harry Allen Golf Club, aims to bring together people of all ages to celebrate cultural identity while creating a platform for communities to preserve traditions and pass them on to younger generations.
Speaking ahead of the event, Phinifa Festival founder and host Nobukhosi Hlahla said the initiative was born out of a desire to safeguard cultural heritage at a time when many traditions, values and practices are slowly fading.
“The festival was born out of a desire to preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage while creating a platform that brings people together across generations,” she said.
“I observed that many cultural traditions, values and practices were gradually being overlooked, particularly by younger generations.”
Hlahla said the festival seeks to promote cultural pride, encourage intergenerational learning and create opportunities for communities to celebrate their identity through food, fashion, art, music and storytelling.
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She said the idea was inspired by cultural festivals in South Africa, where heritage events have become important platforms for promoting unity and celebrating cultural diversity.
“Seeing the positive impact of such events inspired me to create a similar platform that would celebrate our own cultures, traditions and creativity while fostering unity and appreciation for our heritage,” she said.
This year’s edition will run under the theme Phinifa and Apron on Fleek, placing particular emphasis on traditional cuisine and cultural attire.
Festival-goers can expect a vibrant programme featuring cultural performances, traditional dance, live music, fashion showcases, culinary exhibitions and other creative displays celebrating Zimbabwe’s diverse cultures.
One of the major attractions will be a cultural fashion show, where participants will showcase traditional attire representing different communities while highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of indigenous fashion.
“The fashion show will celebrate the beauty, creativity and uniqueness of our cultural heritage while demonstrating how traditional and contemporary styles can be embraced with pride,” Hlahla said.
This year’s festival builds on the success of the inaugural edition by expanding participation and introducing new activities.
“This year’s edition will be bigger and more inclusive than the inaugural event.
“We are expanding participation, introducing new activities and placing greater emphasis on showcasing cultural fashion and culinary creativity.”
Reflecting on the debut festival, Hlahla said the overwhelming community support reaffirmed the importance of creating spaces where people can celebrate their heritage.
“The first edition received a very positive response from attendees and the community. Participants appreciated the opportunity to celebrate their culture, showcase their talents and connect with others in a meaningful way.
“The enthusiasm and support we received inspired us to continue growing the festival.”
Open to children, youth, adults and elders alike, the Phinifa Festival continues to position itself as an intergenerational celebration that promotes cultural pride while strengthening community bonds through shared traditions, creativity and heritage.