Mbazo Set for Bold Roast in Bulawayo as Part of 50th Birthday Celebrations

Bulawayo arts heavyweight Saimon “Mbazo” Mambazo Phiri is preparing to face one of comedy’s boldest challenges — a roast. Following in the footsteps of the late rapper Cal_Vin (Calvin Nhliziyo) and celebrated artiste-councillor Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi, Mbazo will be the next subject of Umahlekisa Entertainment’s sharp-witted humour on October 4 at the Bulawayo Theatre.

The roast is a major highlight of Mbazo’s ambitious “50 Dates at the Theatre” project, a series of cultural showcases marking his 50th birthday. Umahlekisa Entertainment director and Roast Master Ntando Van Moyo described the event as a unique tribute to a man who has shaped Bulawayo’s creative landscape for decades.

“This is how we celebrate a seasoned creative — by telling his story our way. Mbazo has put Bulawayo on the map. He has contributed both positively and negatively, as some would say. We want to dissect every part of that and give him his flowers while he can still smell them,” said Moyo.

During the roast, Mbazo will face witty mockery and brutal honesty from friends and colleagues in front of a live audience. The panel will feature personalities close to him, including rapper Asaph Afrika, veteran arts journalist Bongani Ndlovu, and newly appointed Bulawayo Chiefs FC chief executive officer Thulani “Javas” Sibanda. More names are expected to be announced.

“The roast is not just a standalone show — it’s part of 50 Dates at the Theatre, a landmark celebration that is ongoing,” Moyo added.

Reflecting on his five-decade journey, Mbazo said: “It feels great to be 50. I’ve been fortunate to create and see projects through to fruition — that’s been my high. My lows? Financial struggles. In this economy, hope is a currency. I’ve always wanted to help young talent, but resources have been a challenge.”

In true roast spirit, he added: “I feel prepared for this roast because my life has been marred by half-truths and mere truths. I’m 50 and I’ve nothing to hide, so I might as well give young people something to laugh at.”

Roast panellist Bongani Ndlovu expressed his excitement for the occasion. “I’m honoured to be part of the roast and to celebrate Mbazo’s 50th birthday. It’s a chance to show the funny side of each panellist. I’ve had a good, respectful relationship with Mbazo. He’s a funny guy to work with and combative if you’re not used to him,” Ndlovu said.

The event follows Umahlekisa Entertainment’s successful roast of Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi last year, which featured unexpected moments, such as musician Mzoe7 stepping in for an absent Ezra “Tshisa” Sibanda, proving that roasts thrive with a bold mix of comedians and confident non-comedians.

October 4 promises a memorable night as Bulawayo celebrates Mbazo’s contributions to the creative arts and marks a milestone in his life and career.