Nkayi Festival Returns for Second Edition with Eight-Day Music and Talent Celebration

The second edition of the #53 Nkayi Festival is set to take place across Nkayi District, Matabeleland North Province, bringing an eight-day celebration of music, talent and community engagement. The festival aims to promote local artistes, provide exposure for emerging talent and create entertainment opportunities across the district.

Following a successful inaugural edition last year, which faced challenges from heavy rains, organisers are confident the 2025 festival will deliver uninterrupted live performances. The event was conceived by artistes Intombi Yabelungu, Precious Diana Indlovukazi, Collen Moyo and Bheki Fuzane. It will run from December 24 to December 31, taking performances to different communities each day.

The schedule begins at Nyathi on Christmas Eve, moves to Good Wood on Christmas Day, Gonye Shopping Centre on Boxing Day, Nyaje on December 27, Gwelutshena on December 28, Nkayi Centre on December 29, Tohwe on December 30, and concludes at Mpumelelo on New Year’s Eve.

The festival features a diverse line-up of artistes across multiple genres. Gospel musicians Collen Moyo, Mapotholes, Mchasisi Dube, Minister Phenius Mlotshwa, Pastor Elton and Pastor P Nkundla will perform alongside Maskandi stars Intombi Yabelungu, Amagodonga Amahle, Iskhali Sensizwa, and Mathi The Boiling Pot. Zimdancehall and house music will be represented by Master Fan and Kwasakwasa, while rhumba and Amapiano acts include The Melodius Psalms, Mxola, Mkhalandoda Express, Izwi Labapostoli Gospel Group, and King Yama2K. Comedy and hip-hop will be provided by Magwizi The Comedian and Tromp. Precious Diana Indlovukazi will perform both disco and Gospel numbers, adding variety to the festival’s entertainment.

Speaking on preparations, Intombi Yabelungu said organisers were in advanced stages and promised a memorable event. “We’re back this year and we’re promising flames as we prepare for eight days of celebration. This is a seasonal, non-discriminatory event that welcomes all artistes willing to participate,” she said.

The festival aims to bring music directly to the people while serving as a platform to market both established and emerging artistes. Beyond entertainment, organisers are committed to community empowerment, including donating stationery to vulnerable schoolchildren.

Support from local businesses and community leaders has continued to strengthen the festival, ensuring it remains a key cultural and social event in Nkayi District.