Bulawayo’s Creative Pulse in Focus
Bulawayo continues to breathe creativity through music, comedy, performance, and cultural expression. The city’s creative sector remains active, with artists shaping stories that reflect lived experiences, identity, and ambition. From international stages to local venues, creatives are building a strong presence across Zimbabwe and beyond. This edition of What’s Up Byo captures key moments in music, comedy, development programmes, and cultural showcases shaping the industry today.
1. Kwela Initiative – Hip Hop and Chill (May 30)
Kwela Initiative is preparing to host its Hip Hop and Chill event in Bulawayo. The platform focuses on developing young hip hop artists across the city, creating space for collaboration, performance, and skills development.
The event is scheduled for May 30, 2026, and will bring together rappers, DJs, producers, and creatives under one roof. Founded by Asaph Afrika and fellow creatives, the initiative supports music development through workshops that strengthen both artistic and business knowledge.
Artists will also perform and engage in creative discussions during the event, encouraging collaboration as a key ingredient for growth. Kwela Initiative continues to strengthen Zimbabwe’s hip hop culture through structured development while building long-term networks for emerging musicians.
2. Jeys Marabini – The World Show Appearance
Afro-jazz musician Jeys Marabini recently appeared on The World Show on Kaya FM, hosted by South African broadcaster Nicky B. The interview highlighted Marabini’s journey as one of Zimbabwe’s respected musical voices.
Representing Bulawayo’s deep cultural and musical heritage, Marabini reflected on his long-standing career in the Zimbabwean music industry. His songs explore themes of love, struggle, identity, and heritage.
The appearance introduced his music to a wider African audience and strengthened his international artistic profile. Such media exposure across borders remains vital for artists seeking to build new audiences and expand their influence.
3. Flying Bantu – Manutsa Mountain Festival Performance
Flying Bantu is set to perform at the upcoming Manutsa Mountain Festival, bringing its signature fusion of Afro-rock, funk, reggae, and jazz to a scenic mountain-stage experience.
Known for energetic live performances, the band has built a reputation for pushing creative boundaries through experimental African sound. Their performances create strong audience engagement and continue to attract both local and international followers.
Fans can expect a high-energy set that celebrates innovation and musical freedom. Their appearance at the festival highlights Zimbabwe’s growing live music culture.
4. Frank Chirisa – Comedy Showcase for New Talent
Comedian Frank Chirisa is hosting a comedy showcase in Bulawayo aimed at supporting emerging stand-up talent. The event will take place at Alliance Française, offering a platform for rising comedians to perform and gain visibility.
The showcase blends stand-up comedy with storytelling, creating a space where humour becomes both entertainment and social reflection. Young comedians will have the opportunity to connect with audiences while refining their stage presence.
The event contributes to the steady growth of Zimbabwe’s comedy scene and highlights Bulawayo’s role in nurturing diverse forms of creative expression.
5. Indosakusa – Unembeza Album Tribute Moment
Traditional music group Indosakusa launched its album Unembeza during a cultural ceremony celebrating African musical heritage. Known for preserving indigenous Zimbabwean sounds, the group continues to connect audiences to deep cultural storytelling.
During the launch, the group honoured Albert Mazibuko, a member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, highlighting the shared musical connections between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The album explores themes of conscience, spirituality, and reflection, and was released using a modern USB format. Through harmonised vocals and rooted storytelling, Indosakusa continues preserving indigenous African traditions.
6. Butholezwe Ntini – Ibutho Album Teaser
Bulawayo Afro-fusion artist Butholezwe Ntini has announced his upcoming album Ibutho. The project blends traditional and contemporary influences while exploring themes of unity, identity, and emotional expression.
Inspired by cultural and church music, Ntini’s sound reflects both heritage and modern creativity. The title Ibuthorepresents strength, solidarity, and collective spirit.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the official release, which marks an important milestone in the artist’s growing career.
7. Nutty O – Live Show at Ko Samuriwo Pub & Grill
Musician Nutty O recently performed live at Ko Samuriwo Pub & Grill in Bulawayo, attracting a large and energetic crowd.
The free-entry event featured reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeat-inspired sounds, creating strong audience engagement throughout the evening. Supporting artists also joined the lineup, contributing to a lively celebration of Zimbabwe’s live music culture.
Known for his uplifting performance style, Nutty O continues to build strong connections with local audiences.
8. Vuyo Brown – I Wanna Love God More Gospel EP
Gospel artist Vuyo Brown has released her EP I Wanna Love God More, a project that blends gospel, rap, and experimental musical influences.
The EP explores faith, devotion, and personal spiritual growth. Collaborations with regional producers helped shape a sound that balances modern creativity with emotional depth.
Listeners have praised the project for its originality and heartfelt message. Available on digital streaming platforms, the release strengthens Brown’s place within Zimbabwe’s gospel fusion scene.
9. Macala Macala – Wena Music Video Release
Emerging artist Macala Macala has released his debut music video titled Wena, marking an important step in his creative journey.
Produced by FAC Productions Zimbabwe, the visual project introduces his artistic identity through storytelling and performance. The release quickly gained attention on social media, with audiences praising its originality and visual quality.
The project reflects themes of youth expression and identity, positioning Macala Macala as one of Bulawayo’s promising new talents.
10. SoCreative Programme – Creative Business Training Initiative
The SoCreative Programme, based at Amakhosi Cultural Centre in Bulawayo, continues to support creatives across Zimbabwe by helping them transform artistic talent into sustainable business opportunities.
Participants receive free training, mentorship, entrepreneurship guidance, and branding skills. Upon completion, participants are awarded certificates and gain access to micro-grants for creative projects.
Supported by international cultural organisations, the programme plays a key role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s creative economy.
11. Noluntu J vs Boy Nino – Online Performance Clash
Artists Noluntu J and Boy Nino recently sparked online discussion following comments made after a live performance at the National Gallery.
Noluntu J publicly criticised Boy Nino’s stage performance, prompting a response defending artistic expression. The exchange quickly circulated across social media platforms, dividing audiences over performance standards and artistic interpretation.
The situation highlighted tensions within hip hop culture while drawing wider attention to conversations around quality, critique, and creative identity.
12. Floppy X – M.S.O.O.N Album Announcement
Independent artist Floppy X has announced his upcoming album M.S.O.O.N, a project rooted in direct fan engagement and self-driven music distribution.
His approach challenges traditional industry systems by prioritising creative ownership and independence. The album reflects themes of Ndebele identity, lived experience, and personal storytelling.
Fans have responded positively to his independent strategy, which continues to inspire younger artists exploring alternative pathways within the music industry.
13. Nkwali – ZimConnect North America Performance
Singer and performer Nkwali is set to perform at ZimConnect in Edmonton, Canada, representing Zimbabwean culture on an international stage.
A graduate of the Iyasa Arts Programme in Bulawayo, Nkwali blends Afro-jazz with traditional musical influences. She has previously toured Europe with the Mother Africa production.
Her performance at ZimConnect supports African cultural exchange while strengthening Zimbabwe’s visibility within global arts spaces.
14. Asaph Afrika – Gatekeeping Debate in Hip Hop Scene
Hip hop artist Asaph Afrika recently sparked debate around gatekeeping within Zimbabwe’s music industry.
Through social media discussions, he argued that internet access has reduced traditional industry barriers, encouraging artists to focus on consistency, discipline, and self-promotion.
Referencing examples such as Cal Vin and Kasi Lunatics, Asaph’s comments generated mixed reactions. While some agreed with his perspective, others maintained that industry obstacles remain.
The debate continues to shape conversations within Zimbabwe’s hip hop community.
15. Bulawayo Choristers & Acquillah K – Africa Rising Concert
The Bulawayo Choristers are preparing to host the Africa Rising concert featuring Acquillah K as the headline performer.
Set to take place at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, the event celebrates African identity through music, culture, and collaboration.
The choir’s harmonised sound blends traditional and contemporary influences, while Acquillah K brings Afro-soul and gospel fusion to the stage. Audiences can expect emotionally rich performances rooted in African artistic heritage.
16. U.S. Embassy – Digital Access for Creatives Initiative
The U.S. Embassy has launched a digital support initiative aimed at strengthening access to creative resources for artists in Bulawayo and across Zimbabwe.
As part of the programme, equipment was donated to the National Gallery, helping improve digital access for research, creativity, and innovation.
The initiative promotes cultural exchange, digital inclusion, and stronger connections between local creatives and global artistic trends.
17. Matojeni Melomaniacs – European Cultural Tour
Performance group Matojeni Melomaniacs is currently touring Europe, with appearances scheduled in Austria, Italy, and the Czech Republic.
Formed in Bulawayo in 2023, the group combines dance, music, and storytelling to promote Zimbabwean culture internationally. They previously performed in Switzerland and continue to expand their reach through global collaborations.
Their performances celebrate African storytelling traditions while strengthening Zimbabwe’s artistic presence abroad.
18. TexpoAfrica Creative Collaboration – Creatives at ZITF Expo
Creatives recently participated in TexpoAfrica during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), a platform connecting technology and the creative industries.
Supported by Tariro neGitare, discussions focused on innovation, networking, and digital growth. SoCreative alumni attended workshops and collaboration sessions, while Old Mutual shared insights on financial sustainability.
The event encouraged stronger integration between arts and technology, supporting Zimbabwe’s digital economy vision.
19. Amaqaqa Music – Inkemba: The Sword Album Launch
Traditional vocal group Amaqaqa Music is preparing to launch its album Inkemba: The Sword at Bulawayo Theatre.
Known for Isicathamiya-inspired harmonies, the group blends tradition with contemporary expression. The album explores themes of strength, resilience, and heritage.
Organisers are encouraging community support, with accessible ticket pricing aimed at broad audience participation. The launch promises an evening of rich vocal storytelling.
20. Byo Artistes – Cultural Showcase at ZITF Opening
More than forty Bulawayo artistes participated in the opening of ZITF, showcasing a vibrant fusion of Zimbabwean and Botswana cultural performances.
The ceremony, officially opened by Duma Boko and attended by Emmerson Mnangagwa, celebrated regional unity through artistic expression.
Groups including Siyaya and Umkhathi delivered standout performances, while the energetic Setapa dance received strong audience appreciation.
The showcase highlighted Bulawayo’s creative excellence and reinforced the role of the arts in cultural diplomacy.
Bulawayo’s creative ecosystem continues to evolve through collaboration, performance, training, and cultural exchange. From grassroots platforms to international stages, the city’s artists are shaping narratives that reflect resilience, identity, and innovation.
What’s Up Byo remains a space to spotlight the people, performances, and projects keeping Bulawayo’s creative pulse alive.
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