Zimbabwean students studying in South Africa impressed over the weekend when they scooped the first prize at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) International festival.
Report by Melissa Mpofu Entertainment Reporter
Angola took second place while Gabon settled for third position.
The international festival is the biggest event at the university where different countries showcase their culture through dance, traditional clothing and cuisine.
The theme for this year’s festival was “World Flavour@UJ” the goal was to learn and appreciate the importance of culture and cultural heritage.
A statement from organisers of the festival noted that the event was an opportunity for participants to celebrate their cultures through various activities.
“This we hope will affirm Africa as the centre of cultural heritage of the world. The festival is an opportunity to network, exchange ideas, reveal hidden talents and fashion patterns. It is also our belief that it would create the much needed unity in Africa and in the world among our youth,” read part of the statement.
Nyasha Bhero, the chairman of Zimbabwe Students’ Society said the Zimbabwean groups’ performance focused on a theme of the liberation struggle.
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“The Zimbabwe stall had a replica of the tomb of the unknown soldier, which is at the National Heroes’ Acre and pictures from the liberation struggle. We also staged a play that reflects our history. The crowd enjoyed our act as we combined acting and dancing,” said Bhero.
He added that the audience was impressed with the developing Zimbabwean brand. “It is our mission to improve brand Zimbabwe. As part of our duties every year we take other foreign students for a tour around Zimbabwe. While some of our fellow Zimbabweans shy away and hide their identity, our main goal is to create a new breed of open-minded Zimbabwean intellectuals who are willing to put political differences aside and work towards promoting a better image of Zimbabwe.”
