Art and Entertainment Take Centre Stage at National Youth Day in Bulawayo

Art and entertainment dominated the National Youth Day celebrations last Friday afternoon in Bulawayo. The event, which coincides with the late former President Robert Mugabe’s birthday, was held for the first time in Bulawayo at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre, in line with the devolution and decentralisation agenda.

As the crowd awaited the arrival of the presidium, various artistes took to the stage, delivering captivating performances. The event was hosted by Khulumani FM’s MaNurse Ndlovu, who was assisted at intervals by high school students.

Setting the tone for the day was Khaya Arts with an electrifying performance that sent the audience into a frenzy. Their act had the crowd jumping and screaming in excitement.

Rapper Noluntu J left such an impression that one of the stage directors requested her return for an encore. Inspired by her performance, students from Masvingo Polytechnic dubbed themselves “ladies in blue” as they mimicked her act.

Another standout performance came from the NoNameDance Crew, a trio that has been making waves across the country with their exceptional dance routines. They thrilled the audience with a mix of Afro-pop and amapiano, before paying tribute to the military with a short rendition of Nzira Dzemasoja.

Following their performance, they were invited to meet several Cabinet ministers. One of the dancers, Calton Mpofu, described the experience as surreal.

“It was so surreal to finally be on stage where so many highly esteemed government officials and other attendees and invited youths all seemed to be supporting us in one accord despite their differences and preferences,” Mpofu said.

“We had a unifying effect which was amazing to experience and be part of. People are finally starting to notice our art, and we are grateful. Special thanks go to our publicist and agent for the amazing work and the opportunities he has created for us.”

The National Youth Day celebrations in Bulawayo highlighted the power of art and entertainment in bringing people together. With the continued recognition of young talent, the event showcased the vibrancy and dynamism of Zimbabwe’s artistic landscape.