Zimbabwe Jazz Festival 2025 Delights Bulawayo with World-Class Performances

The Zimbabwe Jazz Community Trust (ZJCT) and Alliance Française in Zimbabwe brought an unforgettable weekend of music to Bulawayo during the eighth edition of the Zimbabwe Jazz Festival, the city’s fourth hosting of the event.

The festival kicked off last Friday at Alliance Française de Bulawayo with The Frank Salis Experience, a cross-continental ensemble led by Swiss composer Frank Salis. Their performance set the tone for a weekend of innovation and cultural exchange.

Bulawayo’s own Afro-jazz sensation Dudu Manhenga captivated the audience with a world-class performance. She was joined on stage by Nobuntu’s lead vocalist and her sister, Zanele Manhenga, adding depth and vibrancy to the show. Having moved to Harare at a young age, Dudu expressed excitement at returning to her hometown. “It’s great to be back to where it all started. I used to be afraid to compose and sing in English because of words like ‘cattle’ and ‘bottle,’ but now I’m comfortable,” she shared.

Award-winning saxophonist Vee Mukarati, making waves in Europe’s jazz scene, delivered a polished performance alongside Othnell “Mangoma” Moyo, showcasing the next generation of Zimbabwean jazz talent. The Tich Makalisa Band, featuring acclaimed pianists and musicians from Zimbabwe and South Africa, further elevated the festival with their dynamic set.

For international performer Amanda Tiffin, returning to Bulawayo after a long absence added a personal significance to her performance.

This year’s festival coincided with the innovative “Frank Salis Experience — The Zambezi Sessions,” a residency and tour project spanning southern Africa. Musicians from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Switzerland, Italy, and the United States embarked on a two-week creative journey, performing in Lusaka, Mutare, and Victoria Falls before culminating in the Zimbabwe Jazz Festival concerts in Bulawayo and Harare.

The collaboration between ZJCT and Alliance Française has been key to the festival’s continued success, providing a platform that blends local talent with international jazz influences. The 2025 edition reinforced Bulawayo’s place as a hub for jazz culture and creative excellence in Zimbabwe.