mbulelo smpofu
Mthabisi Tshuma recently in Ntepe
Nestled in the heart of rural Matabeleland South, 39km south of Gwanda town, Ntepe village transforms into a vibrant party destination during the festive season.
This seemingly modest growth point, bordered by rivers and streams, comes alive with the arrival of thousands of visitors and more than a hundred vehicles, making it the ultimate hotspot for partygoers.
Ntepe Business Centre has witnessed remarkable growth, boasting over 50 establishments, including general dealers, butcheries and bottle stores. During the festive season, the absence of nightclubs turns bottle stores into the epicentre of celebrations, extending their hours to cater to the spirited crowds.
At the heart of this festive buzz is Majiya Special, a thriving business that operates a general dealer, bottle store, restaurant and butchery. For the past decade, Majiya Special has been the go-to destination for those looking to relax and embrace the festive spirit fully.
Last Saturday, Chronicle Showbiz joined the celebrations at the launch of Majiya Special’s “Festive Vibe”, a series of entertainment events that highlight the village’s potential as a local tourist attraction. Locals and visitors alike gathered in large numbers, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Entertainment for the evening was headlined by the Pumula Queens, an all-female dance ensemble from Bulawayo.
Their expertly choreographed performances captivated the audience, inspiring many to join in the festivities. Exceptional dancers from the crowd were even awarded prizes, adding to the excitement of the night.
With last weekend’s event, the festive season at Ntepe has officially kicked off with flair. The centre is expected to draw crowds from nearby areas, including Gwanda, West Nicholson, Collen Bawn, Mbalabala, Esigodini, Mawabeni and even Bulawayo, reaffirming its status as the region’s festive hub.
Majiya Special proprietor, Refiloe “Ree” Dube, expressed optimism about the season.
“The festive season is upon us, and as usual, we expect large crowds to come and enjoy themselves. Last weekend, we launched our entertainment series and we hope it will bring cheer to our customers. This period also creates additional employment and boosts revenue for businesses around the area,” she said.
Ree encouraged people to visit Ntepe in numbers to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
“I believe that if people come in large numbers, it will also increase the popularity of the area, potentially turning it into a tourist attraction,” she added.
With Majiya Special at the helm, the festive season in Ntepe promises to be a celebration of life, community, and economic growth.
