Dereck Mpofu, Top Artistes to Headline Mutupo Festival in Celebration of Zimbabwe’s Cultural Heritage

Green ambassador and musician Dereck Mpofu, alongside renowned artistes Josh Meck, Albert Nyathi, Mono Mukundu and Othnell “Mangoma” Moyo, will headline the eagerly anticipated Mutupo Festival, set to take place on June 15 at the Alliance Francaise in Harare.

Mpofu promises an unforgettable, all-day family experience designed to immerse attendees in Zimbabwe’s rich cultural traditions. The event will feature storytelling sessions that delve into the significance of various totems and their roles in Zimbabwean culture. Attendees can also look forward to cultural exhibitions showcasing traditional dress, symbols, and practices, as well as traditional food and drink tastings, food preservation workshops, and organic farming demonstrations.

Mpofu explained that the festival is a vibrant celebration of the country’s cultural heritage and aims to bring together people from all walks of life to share their stories, cultures and legacies.

“Zimbabwean totems play a vital role in the country’s cultural identity, representing unique histories, stories and significance. From the majestic eland of the Vahera totem to the revered symbols of other totems, such as the lion of the Shumba, the heart of the Moyo and the zebra of the Mbizi, Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage is rich and diverse,” Mpofu said.

He noted that the narrative surrounding these totems has often been shaped by outsiders, resulting in negative stereotypes and misconceptions. “It’s time to reclaim and redefine the narrative, amplifying the positives and muting the negatives. The Mutupo Festival aims to promote cultural understanding, national identity and unity, while preserving cultural knowledge and supporting local artisans.”

Mpofu also expressed concern over the decline of traditional village spaces where communities once gathered to share stories and pass down cultural knowledge. He highlighted the impact of modern life on these traditions, stating that the erosion of the family unit has significantly affected the transmission of cultural values and practices.

“Furthermore, the increasing reliance on industrialised food systems has led to a decline in organic food production and preservation methods,” he added.

The timing of the festival is significant, as it coincides with key international observances. The International Day of the African Child on June 16 celebrates the resilience and rights of African children, while the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought on June 17 focuses on the urgent need to protect land from degradation.

Against this backdrop, the Mutupo Festival aims to address these pressing issues by promoting organic food production and preservation, revitalising traditional community spaces, strengthening the family unit and facilitating inter-generational knowledge transfer. It will also celebrate traditional dress, symbols, and practices, helping foster national pride and unity.

The festival’s goals include fostering greater appreciation of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, encouraging cultural entrepreneurship, and inspiring youth to embrace their cultural identity. “We encourage people to come in their numbers to explore the cultural diversity of Zimbabwe. We wish to promote local talent and cultural entrepreneurship, conscientise youth on cultural heritage and its importance in shaping their identity,” Mpofu said.

He also reflected on the broader significance of June for Zimbabwe and the world. “As June unfolds, Zimbabwe and the world pause to reflect on vital causes that shape our future — children’s rights and environmental sustainability — while the nation’s music scene continues to thrive with fresh releases and dynamic projects,” Mpofu said.

“June 16 marks the International Day of the African Child, a day dedicated to honouring the courage and resilience of African children and advocating for their rights. The following day, June 17, is the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, emphasising the urgent need to protect our land from degradation. Together, these cultural, social, and environmental milestones and personalities highlight Zimbabwe’s dynamic spirit in June — a month for reflection, celebration and creative growth.”

Adding to the festival’s star-studded line-up, Pah Chihera is expected to captivate audiences with her unique blend of Afro-pop and traditional sounds. Josh Meck will bring his soulful jazz and reggae-infused music, while legendary poet and musician Albert Nyathi, recently honoured with a lifetime achievement award by the National Arts Council, will enthral the audience with his celebrated storytelling and performance.

Producer and instrumentalist Mono Mukundu, known for his innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, will also grace the stage. Currently busy in the studio working on several collaborative projects set for release later this year, Mukundu is expected to deliver an electrifying performance that reflects his dynamic artistry.

The Mutupo Festival is set to be a landmark event, celebrating Zimbabwe’s rich cultural tapestry while addressing vital social and environmental themes.