Zanele Moyo

KWEKWE — After a brief hiatus, Kwekwe Podium is gearing up to return to the stage, with a revamped format that promises to showcase the city’s rich artistic talent.

Organisers are calling on volunteers and contributors to join the management committee, which will oversee the development of the arts in the city.

The committee is open to individuals from all walks of life, including musicians, models, DJs, actors, fans, promoters, and sponsors.

“We invite anyone who feels they have something to offer to the artistic community in Kwekwe to join our management committee,” said a spokesperson for the organisers, Sydney Munemo.

“Together, we can create a vibrant and thriving arts scene that showcases the best of our city’s talent.”

The revamped Kwekwe Podium hosted by Bantu Entertainment Zimbabwe has received clearance from the police, with the main aim of reducing crime through providing the youth with a creative outlet and promoting drug awareness through the performing arts.

The podium is a brainchild of musician, producer and teacher, Tawanda “Bantuman I” Jumo, in partnership with Kwekwe City Council.

The Kwekwe Podium which is based at Kwekwe Theatre, is the hub of cultural activities like dance, poetry, painting, music, drama, among other forms of entertainment.

Jumo said the primary objective of the Podium is to revive art, culture, music and drama in the Midlands Province.

“It provides a platform which allows youths in Kwekwe and from the rest of the Midlands Province to market themselves through public performances. It is also aimed at educating the youths on how to become professional artists through art and music,” he said.

The platform will feature a range of categories, including: Urban Music Nights (Digital Music), Gospel Music Night, Culture Nights (Mbira, Ngano, Beriya, Muchongoyo), Secular Music Nights (Live Bands) and Kwekwe Podium Awards in December 2025.

As part of the Kwekwe Podium Awards, the following categories will be recognised: Best Musician, Best Performer, Best of the Night and Special Recognition.

The incoming volunteer community is encouraged to contribute to the growth and development of Kwekwe Podium, including adding or removing categories to ensure the awards remain relevant and inclusive.

Kwekwe Podium is a talent showcase platform where artists can exhibit, learn, and share skills and ideas.

By providing a creative outlet for the youth, Kwekwe Podium aims to make a positive impact on the community and promote social change.