By Kudakwashe Kutinyo
The recent COP15 summit in Victoria Falls was not only a landmark for global wetlands conservation—it was also a triumph for Matabeleland North’s vibrant arts scene.
Local dance groups took centre stage throughout the conference, captivating hundreds of international delegates with authentic African traditional dance and music.
Leading these cultural ambassadors, the Imvimbi Cultural Dance Group, fresh from their appear-ance at the Chibuku Neshamwari competition, was entrusted with welcoming President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other dignitaries at COP15’s official opening.
Their spirited performance set a jubilant tone, while subsequent appearances—including in the iconic Victoria Falls rainforest—had visiting dignitaries and officials so enthralled that some even joined the dancers on stage.
Emmy the Poet emerged as a standout figure, delivering a mesmerising vocal performance at the Zimbabwe pavilion. Dressed in traditional attire as Victoria Falls celebrated its wetland accredita-tion milestone, Emmy became a symbol of local pride and artistic excellence.
The conference’s wetland programme led visitors beyond the town, with dignitaries traveling to Hwange’s Kasibo wetlands. There, the Pezhuva Pachena Cultural Ensemble gave a rousing wel-come, blending their robust Tonga heritage and mastery of traditional instruments. The group’s track record at major national events like the Chibuku Neshamwari finals was only further cement-ed by their electric display at COP15, leaving guests clamouring for encore performances.
Speaking to performer Bertha Phiri, she emphasised the significance of COP15’s extensive media coverage as a marketing platform for local artists:
“The COP15 is a very big event and we are aware that it has coverage everywhere. It’s an oppor-tunity to showcase and make our names known far and beyond—for future bookings, you never know who is watching.”
The cultural celebration went on past dusk, with delegates exploring Victoria Falls’ dynamic night-life. Venues such as Cotton Club pulsed with energizing performances by local artists, infectious rhythms, and dazzling light shows, leaving visitors with lasting memories of Zimbabwe’s creative spirit.
Amid high-level environmental discussions, the local arts community seized the global spotlight—transforming COP15 into both an ecological summit and a showcase for Zimbabwean culture. The recognition and exposure promise lasting benefits, opening new avenues for bookings and partner-ships while affirming the unique power of the arts to connect, inspire, and empower.
