All Set for Bulawayo Provincial Finals of Chibuku Road to Fame

By Kudakwashe Takundwa and Nomathemba Mathe

The excitement builds as Zimbabwe’s premier talent showcase, Chibuku Road to Fame, continues this weekend with provincial finals in Bulawayo and Mashonaland East, scheduled for Saturday, October 12.

Running from September 28 to November 9, 2024, the competition is a collaboration between the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), acting as the technical partner, and Delta Beverages as the headline sponsor, represented by its iconic Chibuku brand.

In an interview, the Provincial Manager of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), Cleopatra Dube, revealed that this year’s Fame edition is different from all other events in that it now allows any bands to compete, unlike in past years when only Sungura bands were allowed to compete. She invited all Bulawayo residents to come and support the young stars

“This year’s music competition marks a significant shift from previous editions, as all genres are now eligible to participate, whereas only Sungura music was allowed in the past. Consequently, bands from diverse genres will showcase their capabilities, and the public is encouraged to attend and witness Bulawayo talents” said Dube

Historically dominated by genres like sungura and Afro-jazz fusion, the competition has now expanded to include genres such as Zim-dancehall, hip-hop, and Amapiano.

Dube further explained that they are geared up for this 2024 Edition, citing that several meetings with other stakeholders were held making sure all stage preparations are completed and ready for the event.

“This event is a massive event for the upcoming artist, we are hop that we will find a winner that will further proceed with competitions to provincial level, competing with 9 other provincial winners and representing the city of Bulawayo” she added

In Bulawayo, 10 groups will compete for the honor of representing the city at the national finals in Harare, with the date still to be confirmed. Special guests include 911, an Afro-fusion group from Gweru who were last year’s national finalists.