Bulawayo’s oldest township and one of Zimbabwe’s most influential cultural hubs, is preparing to host what organisers say will be the biggest edition yet of the Makokoba Music Festival- a two-day celebration designed to drive community development beyond entertainment.
Set for September 18 and 19, the festival will be held under the theme ‘Home Grown’, reflecting a commitment to showcasing Bulawayo’s talent and heritage while creating opportunities for young people, entrepreneurs, and local artists.
The event is expected to attract over 5 000 attendees and feature more than 50 artists.
Over 100 local vendors will participate, while more than 300 young people will benefit from sports, music, and skills development workshops.
Festival manager Christensen Mapuranga said the event was designed to create lasting impact beyond the weekend.
“Makokoba Music Festival represents an opportunity for brands to invest directly in community development while aligning with a powerful cultural movement,” he said.
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“This is about youth empowerment, economic activation, and celebrating Bulawayo’s creative heartbeat.”
This year’s edition has expanded beyond musical performances into a community-focused initiative combining sport, entrepreneurship, wellness, and arts programming.
Day one will begin with a schools sports tournament featuring soccer and netball for primary schools in Makokoba.
The following day will focus on the main music festival, bringing together leading Zimbabwean performers alongside Bulawayo-based artists.
Running throughout both days will be creative workshops, wellness activations, and a curated marketplace.
Organisers have committed to ensuring women-led enterprises and performers account for at least 40% of participants.
“The festival is no longer just an event to attend,” Mapuranga said.
“We are creating a platform where young people can learn, entrepreneurs can access markets, artists can showcase their work, and communities can come together.”
He added that a new management team has rebuilt the festival “from the ground up” with stronger planning and community engagement.
Organisers are currently engaging sponsors while maintaining their focus on youth development, health, heritage, and entrepreneurship.