The Centre for Innovation and Technology (CITEZW) is proud to reaffirm its strategic partnership with the Dakamela Trust for the 2026 Imiklomelo kaDakamela Festival, scheduled to take place from 3–6 April 2026 at Chief Dakamela’s homestead in Nkayi, Matabeleland North.
Let us be your guide to this weekend of celebration of local art and culture.
This year’s festival expands beyond the awards ceremony into a multi-faceted celebration of culture, community achievement and heritage, drawing participants, performers and audiences from across Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.
This year’s festival expands beyond the awards ceremony into a multi-faceted celebration of culture, community achievement and heritage, drawing participants, performers and audiences from across Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.
About Imiklomelo kaDakamela
Imiklomelo kaDakamela, also known as the Chief Dakamela Achievers’ Awards, was launched in 2023 to recognise individuals and groups who have excelled in areas such as health, education, leadership, social development and cultural preservation. The festival has grown into a beacon of community pride and cultural tourism in rural Zimbabwe.
The initiative is led by Chief Mbusi Dakamela, one of the youngest traditional leaders in the nation, whose vision has drawn widespread support. Past editions have welcomed traditional royalty and cultural dignitaries from across the region, underscoring the event’s growing significance.
This year, the festival’s diverse programme has expanded its scope, from awards and cultural showcases to music, traditional performances, youth programmes and community forums, prompting organisers to call for volunteers to support the enhanced schedule.
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Distinguished Participation and Cultural Unity
Imiklomelo kaDakamela 2026 is expected to feature notable traditional leaders as guests, including His Royal Highness King Papa Paul Sande Etomeileng Emolot III, the paramount chief of the Iteso people from Uganda and Kenya, who is set to attend as a distinguished international guest. His presence highlights the festival’s role in promoting Pan-African cultural unity and heritage exchange.
The festival will also see participation from acclaimed South African actress and cultural ambassador Dawn Thandeka King, bringing additional prominence to the event’s cultural tapestry.
What to look out for
As the official digital media partner for Imiklomelo kaDakamela 2026, CITEZW will deliver comprehensive and immersive coverage of the festival. Audiences can expect high-quality live streaming of key events, exclusive interviews with award recipients and dignitaries, behind-the-scenes footage, real-time updates, and a rich gallery of professional photographs capturing the spirit of the celebrations. CITEZW will also produce post-event features, highlight packages, and a dedicated special edition newsletter covering the festival’s key moments, award winners and cultural highlights, ensuring the impact of the event extends well beyond the four days.
In addition, CITEZW is offering limited advertising opportunities across its live broadcasts, newsletter, and digital coverage platforms. Organisations and businesses interested in partnering can request rate cards and placement details by contacting CITEZW at zenzele@cite.org.zwor tanaka@cite.org.zw you can also call on +263773103262 or +263776409488.