shloboe boe
Raymond Jaravaza, raymondjaravaza@gmail.com
AS the final minutes of 2024 ticked away, Bulawayo residents ushered in 2025 with a mix of effervescent street celebrations, musical events and prayers.
The city’s streets, parks and popular entertainment venues were filled with a festive spirit as fireworks lit up the sky and the sound of music and laughter echoed through the neighbourhoods.
In some suburbs, residents held block parties, with braais sizzling and makeshift sound systems blasting popular tunes.
Despite warnings from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) against the use of firecrackers, the city’s skies lit up with colourful fireworks as the clock struck midnight.
The North End Shopping Centre became a hive of activity as revellers gathered for an impromptu street party. With half-a- dozen bars and nightclubs in the area, the atmosphere was electric.
“Business is good tonight. Our patrons and a few others who came in for the first time are spending a lot on alcohol and snacks. We hope they’ll stick around for a few more hours,” said Miss Melisa Moyo, a barlady at one of the nightclubs.
Families also joined the festivities. Mrs Mercy Mhangura, who brought her family for a braai at a local tshisanyama, expressed optimism for the New Year.
“The year 2024 was difficult after my husband lost his job but we are hopeful that 2025 will bring better fortunes,” she said.
At the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC), the first edition of the Bulawayo Piano Festival drew thousands of Amapiano fans. Despite an unfriendly afternoon weather, the event picked up momentum, with both VIP and general sections packed as DJs entertained the crowd.
Event organiser Mr Jordan Dube hailed the festival’s success. “We are definitely going to have other editions of the Piano Fest, possibly three times a year. The first edition was very successful even though the weather was not favourable,” he said.
Local churches hosted watch-night services, drawing large crowds eager to start the year with prayer and thanksgiving. At the Kingdom Empowerment Centre in Hall 2 at ZITF, Prophet Bruce Edwards preached to a full house during the Crossover Night. Known for his social media outreach, the prophet drew hundreds of worshippers who sang, danced and prayed for a fruitful 2025.
In Nketa 6, the Christian Revival Centre hosted an equally energetic gathering. Worshippers of all ages sang and danced in praise, with the atmosphere turning euphoric as they counted down to midnight with a prayer of thanksgiving.
The Apostolic Faith Mission of Africa (AFMA) Church in Lobengula Extension was transformed into a haven of praise and celebration as the congregation ushered in the New Year with a powerful musical concert.
The concert, led by the church’s dynamic choir known as the Gospel Team, showcased an array of gospel music that touched the soul. The harmonies of the choir echoed through the church building, blending with the rhythmic beats of drums and the melodious sound of keyboards, guitars and trumpets among other instruments.
Despite a downpour, the city centre remained lively with revellers braving the rain to gather at outdoor joints. However, not all celebrations were peaceful. Police had to intervene at a nightclub along Fife Street and 12th Avenue after alcohol-fuelled fights broke out among intoxicated youths.
An airtime vendor who witnessed the commotion said the fights started around 10pm and police had to be called to disperse the crowds of mostly teenagers.
In Luveve, the Chigumira Shops area was alive with music and braais despite the wet weather. Hundreds of party-goers gathered for the koSamuriwo music event, enjoying meals and drinks late into the night.
Braai stands glowed with charcoal and firewood, keeping the festivities alive as residents welcomed 2025 with warmth and camaraderie.
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
