Mzilikazi Day Celebrations Set To Boost Cultural Tourism

By Andile Vundla | 4 September 2026

Mzilikazi Day commemorations are underway in Bulawayo, with organisers saying this year’s programme seeks to promote cultural tourism, heritage and national unity.

The celebrations began today with Children’s Day activities, while the main commemorations will be held tomorrow at Mhlahlandlela King Mzilikazi Memorial Site.

The main commemorations, will commence with a march that is expected to start in Matshobana before proceeding through Nguboyenja, Mzilikazi, Makokoba and Nxwala, ending at City Hall, which will be the departure point for the memorial site.

Speaking to SkyzMetro FM, Mthwakazi ka Mzilikazi Cultural Association (MMCA) Publicity and Media Committee member Bigboy Sibanda said this year’s celebrations are placing greater emphasis on cultural tourism.

“This year’s celebrations will aim to promote cultural tourism, with many delegates and artists coming from outside the country to grace the ceremony,” he said.

Sibanda stated that the programme will also focus on passing cultural knowledge to younger generations through educational and practical activities.

He said children and youths will be taught about the history, culture and heritage of the Mthwakazi community, while practical lessons on traditional food and culinary practices will also be conducted.

“We want to ensure that the next generation is well equipped with the necessary information about our history, culture and heritage,” Sibanda said.

He also appealed to transport operators to assist members of the public who will be travelling to the King Mzilikazi Memorial Site.

Meanwhile, Inyosi yeNkosi Lizwi “Nyosi” Mgubazi said the commemorations provide an opportunity to honour King Mzilikazi and reflect on his historical role in bringing together different communities.

Mgubazi said the celebrations are also intended to promote unity and discourage divisions along tribal lines.

He said King Mzilikazi’s movement brought together people from different cultural backgrounds and communities.

Mgubazi said the commemorations should therefore be used to strengthen unity and preserve cultural heritage.

“We want to unite the nation as a whole without creating tribal boundaries that have destroyed our culture and heritage,” he said.

He attributed some of the divisions to what he described as distortions of history during the colonial period.

“We need to come together and appreciate our shared history and culture instead of allowing those divisions to continue,” Mgubazi said.

Meanwhile, an after-party is scheduled for tomorrow at Bulawayo Athletic Club, with South African artist Khuzani Mpungose expected to headline the event alongside local Zimbabwean performers.

The proceeds from the After Party are expected to be channeled towards the construction works of Mhlahlandlela structures and Matopo University.