Kamandama Memorial Marathon to Conclude with Star-Studded Music Gala

The inaugural Kamandama Memorial Marathon will culminate with a music gala, adding a celebratory dimension to a day dedicated to solemn remembrance. The event honours the 427 miners who lost their lives in the Kamandama mining disaster of June 6, 1972, the deadliest mining tragedy in Zimbabwe and across the continent.

The marathon, organised by Hwange Athletics Club in partnership with Hwange Colliery Company, serves as a tribute to the miners, many of whom came from across Southern Africa. Event organizer Deliverance Nyoni said the music gala was introduced to provide entertainment and celebration after the marathon.

“Looking at previous editions of the Kamandama commemorations, we realised that many people were fond of the marathon, but after the main event, there was less entertainment to conclude the activities. With that in mind, we came up with a concept of introducing a music gala so as to allow those in attendance to celebrate this day beyond the marathon. The event is open to everyone as it is free,” Nyoni said.

The music gala will feature a star-studded line-up, headlined by South African Amapiano sensation Nkosazana Daughter and sungura legend Alick Macheso. Other performers include Zimdancehall artists Jah Signal and Jah Master, rhumba star Mxolisi Mr Bones, and Kujata Jata hitmaker DT Bio Mudimba. Local Hwange talent will also perform, including J Tonga, Shanty B and Delete, Rashyn and 6G Band, Zizo, Ras Fidzoh, Boomslang, DJ Divara, and the Eternal Ecstasy Family.

Mxolisi Mr Bones, known for the hit song Faka 2 Phezu KweBhodlela, expressed his excitement about participating. “It’s an honour to be performing alongside the legend Alick Macheso at the Kamandama commemorations. He’s a legend who inspired me to do music. I’m also looking forward to sharing the microphone with Nkosazana Daughter, as I’m a personal fan of her music. Those who attend must brace themselves for an epic show. Together with my crew, Ezehumutsha, we’re looking forward to a great performance and connecting with our fans from the mining town,” he said.

The Kamandama Memorial Marathon and accompanying music gala aim to celebrate the resilience of the Hwange community while paying tribute to the miners whose lives were lost. The combination of athletic achievement and music ensures the commemorations will be both moving and memorable for attendees.