Dhana Family Leisure Centre in Mutoko is rapidly solidifying its reputation as a premier entertainment hub, most recently demonstrated by its successful hosting of the Chibuku Neshamwari Provincial finals last week.
This marked the first time the centre, established six years ago just before the COVID-19 pandemic, had staged an event of such magnitude.
Located approximately 1.5 kilometres outside Mutoko Centre along the Harare highway, Dhana Family Leisure has become renowned over the years for attracting top musical acts to the province, including Alick Macheso, Somandla Ndebele, Peter Moyo, and Freeman, among many others.
Following the recent provincial finals, the centre is now setting its sights on hosting the Chibuku Neshamwari National finals in the future.
"Last week, we thoroughly enjoyed hosting the Chibuku Neshamwari provincial finals," said manager Shepherd Maeni. "We had over 10 different groups, each with more than 15 members, competing. The event garnered significant support, with people from across the province attending in large numbers to have fun. It was a privilege and an honour, and we are grateful to Delta Beverages for this recognition."
Maeni added, "We will continue to improve this venue, and hopefully, we will get the opportunity to host the Chibuku Neshamwari National finals in the future. We are also committed to bringing top entertainment events to Mashonaland East. Furthermore, we take pride in supporting artists from the Mutoko community; local artists like Dumi Matombo and Biggaz had the chance to perform at Chibuku Neshamwari."
Beyond its role as an entertainment venue, Dhana Leisure offers facilities for corporate events, weddings, and birthday parties.
It also features a butchery, a bar, a kitchen, truck stop services, and a carwash. Plans to add lodges are also underway.
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"We are well-known for bringing high-level entertainment to this community," Maeni explained. "We've actively promoted local artists and brought in top acts like Alick Macheso, Freeman, Fantan, and his Chillspot team. This is arguably the biggest show venue in this community."
Detailing the centre's other offerings, Maeni continued.
"We have a butchery, a bar, a kitchen, truck stop services, and a carwash. Our kitchen serves traditional food every Thursday. We are also planning to expand by building lodges once our events gardens are complete, starting with 12 rooms at affordable prices. In fact, all the services we provide here are very affordable.
"We have clients who travel from as far as Mozambique, especially when Macheso is performing here. Others come from Harare and other towns and cities to support us, and we are grateful. Ultimately, we want Dhana to become the number one destination in the Province for entertainment, food, and accommodation services."
Looking ahead, Dhana Family and Leisure Centre has already commenced preparations for an Alan Chimbetu performance scheduled for mid-July, where he will be launching his album.
Other significant entertainment events are slated for August.
"Beginning of August, Fantan and Levels will be here, and at the end of the month, Freeman will also be performing. We invite all artists who wish to perform in Mutoko to get in touch with us so we can make things happen. Our thrust has always been to support local artists the best way we can," Maeni said.
