Shoko Festival has announced an exciting international partnership with United Kingdom-based Arcadia and In Place of War to launch the “Build The Peace” project.
The pioneering initiative, set to debut at Shoko 2025, aims to amplify messages of hope and community unity through a creative exchange between Zimbabwe and the UK.
Arcadia, renowned for transforming conflict hardware into unifying art, and In Place of War, a global organisation supporting artists in conflict and crisis zones, bring a powerful dimension to this collaboration.
The “Build The Peace” project will feature a co-designed mural by young Zimbabwean and UK urban artists.
This striking artwork will first be showcased at the UK’s iconic Glastonbury Festival in June 2025 before making its way to Shoko’s “Peace in the Hood” event in Chitungwiza in September 2025.
Vera Chisvo, Shoko Festival coordinator, emphasised the project's timely significance.
“This collaborative project is timely in a world where headlines across the globe are becoming more and more about war and hostility,” said Chisvo.
“The project is a clarion call for peace in communities, using art and culture as vehicles for positive transformation.”
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The collaboration underscores Shoko Festival’s commitment to fostering positive social change through artistic expression.
By bringing together diverse voices and artistic talents from different continents, “Build The Peace” seeks to inspire dialogue and strengthen community bonds in the face of global challenges.
The project promises to be a powerful testament to the unifying power of art.
The festival’s landmark 15th edition, is set to take place this September under the powerful theme “The Legacy XV”.
The milestone edition celebrates 15 years of pushing artistic boundaries, celebrating creative free expression and elevating urban culture in Zimbabwe and beyond.
Festival-goers can look forward to an exciting lineup, with comedy lovers set for a treat as King Kandoro takes the headline act.
Music enthusiasts will enjoy the melodies of Bagga, Madedido, Runna Rulez, and Jnr Spragga, with many more acts still to be announced.
This year’s festival promises to be a vibrant testament to Shoko’s enduring impact and its continued commitment to showcasing diverse artistic talent.
