The inaugural Pumula Summer Festival (PLA) lit up Pumula North Hall this past weekend in a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community spirit—a historic first for Bulawayo’s western suburbs.
Dubbed the area’s first-ever Summer Fest, the event drew scores of music lovers from across Pumula and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Spearheaded by the passionate trio of Nason “Neezy II” Ndlovu, Msheli Wentombi, and Takudzwa “Teekay G” Gwayi, the festival delivered a resounding success that left the crowd buzzing.
“We wanted to amplify local artists and attract potential sponsors into the Pumula creative scene,” said Neezy II, highlighting the event’s mission to uplift grassroots talent.
Even a brief power outage could not dim the energy, as the crowd kept singing and dancing—proof of an unshakable Pumula spirit.
One of the most electrifying moments came from a performance by Msiz’kay, who was met with roaring applause and reminded the audience why he is a fan favourite, his talent and community connection are unmatched.
The festival was powered by strong partnerships with Home of Arts Entertainment, Pumula Royal Arts and Community Awards (PRACAs), The Host BEN Africa, Digital Cenzo Designs, and Tizzie Studios Media, with critical support from the Pumula North Council.
PRACAs director, Happy Mpofu, praised the festival’s community impact
“This event proved the power of music to unite and uplift our community,” Mpofu said.
Mentor Dlamini, director of Yellow World, echoed the same sentiment.
“The energy was electrifying,” Dlamini said.
“The talent on display was phenomenal. We are proud to be part of this movement.”
Organisers announced that, beginning next year, the festival will rebrand as PLA Fest, solidifying its status as an annual platform for music, unity, and youth empowerment.
“We’re already counting down to next year,” the organisers said.
“We expect it to be bigger and better as we continue to bring the fun to communities across Zimbabwe,” they added.
INeezy II extended heartfelt thanks to the creatives and volunteers working behind the scenes—including Khalanga Lenkosi, Big Wayne, and many others—whose tireless efforts made the festival possible.
This powerful debut not only entertained but inspired, setting the stage for future celebrations and proving that when community and creativity come together, magic happens.
