Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene reached fever pitch last week as a constellation of foreign and international stars descended on the country, igniting stages in Harare and Kadoma in what industry observers have dubbed “the most electrifying weekend of the year.”
From reggae icons and gospel giants to Afro-beat favourites and local sensations, the country’s showbiz calendar turned into a nonstop celebration of rhythm, worship and dance — signalling Zimbabwe’s growing pull as a regional entertainment hub.
The usually quiet mining town of Kadoma was expected to be transformed into a carnival zone as Jamaican dancehall star Busy Signal and reggae crooner Chris Martin headlined the Kadoma Music Festival, which ended in the early hours of today.
The two international acts had promised to deliver electrifying performances that would keep revellers on their feet all night. Fans looked to sing along to timeless hits such as Stay So and Cheaters Prayer, with the crowd’s energy matching that of any global festival.
“Zimbabwe feels like home,” said Busy Signal last Thursday at a press conference. “The love here is real — the people, the vibe, the music. It’s pure fire!”
Also joining the Kadoma line-up was Julian King, returning to the country after six years abroad. His homecoming performance was expected to add an emotional touch to the festival, marking a milestone in his growing international career.
The Kadoma Music Festival line-up also featured local artistes Winky D, Alick Macheso, Freeman HKD, King 98, Feli Nandi, Qounfused and Kurai Makore.
“Performing in front of a Zimbabwean crowd again would be surreal,” said Julian King when he arrived in the country on Wednesday. “It feels like I never left.”
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While Kadoma vibrated to reggae and dancehall, Harare experienced a spiritual awakening of its own. Nigerian gospel star Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, aka Sinach — famed for her global hit Way Maker — was welcomed at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by former Public Service and Social welfare minister Petronella Kagonye and Heartfelt Ministries International leader Tavonga Vutabwashe’s wife, Chipo.
Sinach headlined the Benny Hinn Miracle Crusade, which started on Friday and ends today in Harare.
Adding to the gospel high, South African powerhouse Winnie Mashaba also touched down in Harare last Wednesday courtesy of Tatenda Mahachi, who launched his album titled Renewed and hosted a live recording gig at 7 Arts Theatre on Friday night.
The event drew an impressive line-up of gospel faithful, industry peers, and media, turning the night into a moving blend of faith and artistry.
“It’s inspiring to see Zimbabwe embrace gospel at this scale,” said a fan outside the venue.
“We’re witnessing a new era of international collaborations in Christian music.”
The arrival of these stars underscored Zimbabwe’s cultural renaissance — a period of renewed confidence and artistic exchange.
Visiting acts engaged with local musicians, promoters, and producers, exploring possibilities for future collaborations that could amplify Zimbabwean talent on global platforms.
“This weekend proved that our stages can host anyone,” said one local promoter.
“If logistics, partnerships, and creative planning align, Zimbabwe can reclaim its place on the regional events map.”
Social media trended across platforms as fans shared snippets of performances, airport welcomes and celebrity interactions.
Instagram and TikTok feeds overflowed with backstage selfies and electric stage moments — transforming the weekend into a digital festival of its own.
As the final lights dimmed in Kadoma and Harare this morning, one truth rang clear: Zimbabwe’s entertainment pulse is back — louder, prouder and more connected to the world than ever before.
From dancehall to gospel, from airports to festival stages, this week’s star-powered events reminded fans and promoters alike that Zimbabwe’s cultural rhythm is unstoppable — and the world is starting to dance along.
