Tshabalala and Sizinda will host the Umthombo Wesintu Cultural Festival from 8 to 30 May at Ekhaya Arts Village as part of Bulawayo’s cultural month celebrations.
Organised by Khaya Arts in partnership with the Tshabalala Residents Association, the main festival will run from 8am to 4pm and is expected to bring together local and international cultural groups.
Among the notable figures set to attend are Chief Dakamela of Nkayi and Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart.
The event will feature performances, traditional exhibitions and cultural exchanges involving groups from Eswatini, South Africa, Botswana and across Zimbabwe.
Speaking in an interview with CITE, Tshabalala Residents Association chairperson Albert Ndlovu emphasised the deeper significance of hosting the festival in the area.
“This is not just an event; it is a homecoming of culture. Tshabalala and Sizinda are not ordinary suburbs, they are living archives of our history, identity and pride as abantu,” said Ndlovu.
He highlighted the historical importance of the venue, noting that Sizinda derives its name from one of the original Ndebele settlements.
“Sizinda carries the memory of our forefathers. Even the meanings behind our names and totems tell powerful stories about who we are and where we come from,”
“By hosting Umthombo Wesintu here, we are reconnecting the community with its roots,” said Ndlovu.
He added that the festival would serve as a platform for both cultural preservation and economic empowerment.
“We are calling on residents both young and old to come forward and showcase their talents, whether it is dance, crafts, food or storytelling,” “This is an opportunity for local people to benefit directly, as we expect increased business activity throughout the festival period.”
Ndlovu also stressed the importance of unity and participation.
“Culture thrives when people participate. This festival belongs to the community and its success depends on the community embracing it fully. We want every resident to feel proud, involved and inspired,” he said.
With international cultural groups expected to join local performers, the Umthombo Wesintu Cultural Festival promises to be a rich exchange of traditions and ideas, a celebration not only of diversity but of shared African heritage.