Massive attendance at Hwedza Christmas Arts Fest

Tadious Manyepo in Hwedza

Thousands of people thronged Machakaire Village in Makanda, Hwedza, for the annual Hwedza Arts Festival on Christmas Day.

At least 25 musicians cheered them up, with the show lasting for about 24 hours.

Launched in 2018 by Tinmac Foundation, which is powered by Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire, the festival didn’t take place last year.

It was back by public demand this time around with all the musicians giving splendid performances.

As expected, it was sungura ace Alick Macheso who stole the show with his ultra-inventive exhibition that left revellers asking for more.

It was billed to be the perfect platform for the Orchestra Mberikwazvo frontman and rising star of the genre Mark Ngwazi to clash, especially given Hwedza is the homeground for the latter.

Ngwazi did show up with his timeless hits like “Taurai Madzoka” and “Chamugwegwedu Chamatindike”.

But Macheso still showed that he is the master of stage-work when he arrived around 4pm.

He performed hit after hit including “Charakupa”, “Madhawu”, “Shedia” and “Baba naMai” much to the delight of the crowd.

Several other singers like Mambo Dhuterere, Kurai Makore, Killer T and Enzo Ishall all gave a good account of themselves.

The show spiced up the day which also saw around 3 000 people getting free medical consultations.

Machakaire, who is also the Member of Parliament for Hwedza South Constituency, hailed the musicians for their committed showing.

“This is my yearly Christmas present for the Hwedza folk.

“We didn’t hold the gala last year but we had to bring it back by public                   demand.

 “I would like to salute the musicians who gave it their all and the people were very happy,” said Machakaire.

“We also made sure all those with different ailments got the requisite treatment and some will also get further management from different centres free of charge.

“We are trying to cheer up everyone and fight the drug substance abuse. We hope to achieve what we have set                              out to.

“I would like to salute the musicians and the medical specialists who did their utmost best here.”

Macheso said Machakaire’s initiative was good for the area.
“I think this is my third or fourth time coming to perform here on Christmas Day.

“I don’t think there is any better way to cheer up the Hwedza folks than doing this,” said Macheso.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be here. I have seen people being treated for free and that’s a very good thing.”

Arts festivals play significant roles in ensuring that communities remain rooted in their values even in the face of cultural modernities, that, in many instances threaten the survival and existence of other cultures. The festival was an opportunity for fans to mingle and interact with their favourite artistes.