The NACZ May 2025 Newsletter Issue 9
Point Black is pleased to present the May 2025 edition of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe newsletter. The amazing team at the NACZ prepared this newsletter, which Point Black edited and designed.
Read and download the new edition below:
DiRECTOR’S Welcome Remarks
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer Mr Napoleon Nyanhi
Dear Valued Stakeholders, Partners and Friends
As we embrace the vibrant month of May, I am delighted to connect with you through our newsletter, reflecting on our collective achievements and the exciting journey ahead. May is special because it is Culture Month and we have dedicated it to celebrating our diverse and unique culture. The theme, “Celebrating Indigenous Voices”, resonates deeply with our mission at the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, as we recognize and amplify Zimbabwean heritage, traditions, and artistic expressions that define who we are.
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe remains steadfast in nurturing and promoting the arts as a cornerstone of national development. Over the past month, we have witnessed inspiring collaborations, groundbreaking exhibitions, and performances that celebrate the diversity and talent within our artistic community. None of this would be possible without your unwavering support and passion for the arts.
In this edition, we highlight key initiatives and outstanding activities that took place during this month. We are committed to providing platforms that elevate Zimbabwean art both locally and globally. We believe that art is more than just performance or display; it is the heartbeat of our nation. Whether through the mbira’s call, the storyteller’s chant, the bold strokes of a painter’s brush, or the poet’s verse, Zimbabwean creativity continues to inspire and unite us. Let us continue to unite in purpose, leveraging the transformative power of the arts to inspire, educate, and drive social change. Take a moment to immerse yourself, be inspired, and share the pride of Zimbabwean artistry. Enjoy the read.
CULTURE MONTH 2025
Nacz CEO Mr Napoleon Nyanhi taking President E.D Mnangagwa and the esteemed guests through the tour of exhibitions.
This year’s Culture Month celebrations were ignited by a thunderous National Launch hosted in Masvingo province. On the 22nd of May Zimbabwe’s arts and culture stakeholders converged at Rusununguko Clinic Open Space, under Chief Tshovani in Chiredzi for the much-awaited event where His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa was the guest of honour. The event was marked by unique exhibitions and cultural presentations followed by scintillating entertainment from prominent artists like Freeman, Sandra Ndebele, Mark Ngwazi and Sasha Madhuve. The people in Chiredzi also enjoyed a film courtesy of the European Union. The Honourable Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lt-Gen (Rtd) Ambassador A.N. Sanyatwe handed over a gift of a special heifer to the guest of honor in appreciation of his support.
FIRST LADY APPOINTED CULTURAL AMBASSADOR
Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lt- Gen (Rtd) Amb A.N Sanyatwe handing over the ministry’s gift to the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa
The Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture appointed Her Excellency the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, as the country's Cultural Ambassador, a testament to her unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting our rich heritage. She is a highly visible and active champion of Zimbabwean culture. Her work goes beyond symbolic gestures, focusing on practical preservation of food, crafts, language and values. She has spearheaded programs like Nhanga/Gota Ixiba, Traditional Cook out Competitions, Nharirire yeMusha among others. She is the mastermind behind the National Fabric, which has given Zimbabweans across all age groups, a sense of pride among other nations when it comes to national dress. At her acceptance dinner held at the Culture Village on the 29th of May, Dr Mnangagwa appreciated the ministry’s recognition of her work, and she mentioned that she does everything out of genuine love and passion for Zimbabwean culture. The first lady is working with the spouses of traditional leaders to encourage the preservation of Zimbabwean values.
NACZ partners EU for the Harmonies of Expression Festival
Fashion Exhibitions of design collaboration between Zimbabwe and Spain
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe partnered with the recently introduced European Union National Institutes for Culture to host the Harmonies of Expression Festival. The event brought together fashion designers, chefs, dancers, and musicians from Zimbabwe and Europe to create unforgettable moments of cultural exchange and artistic dialogue. The fusion of Swedish R&B and mbira, interpretive dance, vegan cooking, and repurposed materials turned into couture left everyone inspired. The event was held on the 10th of May 2025 at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare.
Ambassador Jobst Von Kirchmann & NACZ C.E.O Mr Napoleon Nyanhi
CHIBUKU NESHAMWARI ROARS TO LIFE
NACZ, ZNTDA & Delta Beverages officials presenting the 1st prize to Imvimbi Arts, The Matabeleland North Provincial Champions
The annual traditional dance festival which is hosted by the tripartite partnership of National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association and Delta Beverages’ Chibuku brand is back again. Provincial competitions for the Neshamwari Dance Festival kicked off with Midlands hosting first in Gweru at Mkoba 4 Beer Hall on the 10th of May. The provincial winners so far are as follows:
Mashonaland Central will put the curtain down on the provincial competitions on the 5th of July. The national competitions will be held at a venue and date to be announced.
UKHALO FILM PROJECT - MAT NORTH A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN FILM EMPOWERING YOUTH
The short film Ukhalo is a local production that emerged from the 2023 World Theatre and World Poetry Day celebrations in Jotsholo. These events served as a catalyst for identifying and developing young talent from both urban and rural areas. Acclaimed arts practitioner, Sticks Mhlanga, was inspired by the festivities to write a short play, which then evolved into the film Ukhalo. This production is a collaborative effort, supported by the Ministry of Sports Recreation, Arts and Culture, the Lupane State University Media and Film Department, and community leaders.
MASH EAST WOMEN'S DAY SPORTS AND ARTS FESTIVAL
MoSRAC Deputy Minister, Hon Emily Jesaya touring exhibitions at the festival
Mashonaland East province hosted the Women's Day Sports and Arts Festival at Rujeko Primary School in Murehwa on the 15th of May. The event featured a variety of artistic activities including traditional games, art exhibitions, music performances and traditional dances and exhibitions for Arts and Cultural products. The festival provided a platform for women to showcase their talents, skills, and creativity. It also brought together women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. There were entertainment performances by ZPCS Mutoko Traditional Dance Group, Rauya Gen'a dance group, St Peter's Primary School and Poets. During the event, Deputy Minister Honorable Emily Jesaya shared the importance of women participation in Sports, Arts and Culture.
CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM: HOUSE OF ARTS ASSOCIATION
House of Arts Association Founder, Mr Casper Chigama addressing attendants at the workshop
House of Arts Association, an institution registered with NACZ under the Harare Province, successfully hosted a Cultural Exchange program between Zimbabwe and Sweden. The program deliberated on issues dealing with situations female artists face on their journeys to greatness. The NACZ managed to mobilise upcoming artists from Mbare district who attended the event. It is important to note that the Zimbabwean artist who was interviewed was once a Chibuku Road to Fame participant and Music Crossroads student sitting next to Swedish young female artists. They shared their journeys and different challenges which they faced and how they managed to overcome them. This worked as an eye opener to young talented artists following the same career path.
NATIONAL CULTURAL AND CREATIVE INDUSTRIES (CCIS) PUBLIC FUNDING WORKSHOP
Staff from NACZ and Chenhaka Trust pause for a photo with some of the participants
Chenhaka Arts Trust, in partnership with the NACZ, convened a workshop at Alliance Française Harare on 7 May 2025 focused on National Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) Public Funding under the hashtag #sustainablepublicfunding. The dialogue covered key areas as follows:
Project Proposal Development
Public Funding Strategies
Contribution & Needs of the Arts Sector
Current Funding Flow
The NACZ facilitated stakeholder identification and mobilization for the May 7th workshop, themed "Development of an inclusive and data-driven roadmap for increased public funding support to the CCIs through stakeholder participation.
Creative Economy Workshop in Manicaland
NACZ Manicaland Provincial Arts Manager, Caroline Makoni presenting at the workshop
The NACZ, in a collaborative effort to bolster the local arts scene, supported a dynamic event on 3 May 2025 featuring both an educational workshop and an engaging musical showcase in Mutare. The morning session centered on the Creative Economy Workshop, a valuable initiative made possible through the generous funding of the British Council to Magitare Africa Trust which is led by Tariro Chaniwa. Participants had the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of the creative economy, gaining knowledge and perspectives on how to leverage their artistic talents within this evolving landscape. Adding a local context to the discussion, the NACZ Provincial Arts Manager, Caroline Makoni delivered a comprehensive presentation on the current state of the creative economy specifically within the Manicaland province, providing valuable insights into regional opportunities and challenges. As the day transitioned into evening, the atmosphere transformed with the Acoustic Night, expertly organized by Magitare Africa Trust.
Zimbabwean Musicians continue to shine on the global stage
Grateful Concert 3.0
On Saturday 31 May, award winning gospel singer, Eleana Makombe hosted the Grateful Concert 3.0 at the international Convention Centre in Birmingham. The event attracted Zimbabwe’s top gospel acts that include Minister Michael Mahendere, Everton Mlalazi, Blessing Jedthun and Sharon & Ellard Cherai. Speaking at the event where he was the guest of honour, NACZ CEO, Mr Napoleon Nyanhi applauded Zimbabwean gospel artists for raising the bar when it comes to professionalism and standards of event hosting. He shared his belief that Zimbabweans in the diaspora can make the change that the sector needs and launch Zimbabwean art significantly to the world. NACZ is glad to offer the necessary support to Zimbabwean artists in the diaspora. Now is the time to register and be part of the massive transformation of our creative industry towards the better.
NACZ, celebrating 40 years of creativity, resilience, and cultural pride!
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