Zim: Shoko Festival 2019 announces dates, first batch of artists

The event, which will run under the theme Good Vibes Only, is intended to address xenophobia and promote unity with a diverse line-up.

Confirmed local artists include Ti Gonzi, Bazooker, Vimbai Zimuto and Kikky Badass as well as Botswana rapper Wicked Jono. South African comedian Celeste Ntuli and Zambian poet Ludo have also been confirmed for the event. A full line-up of artists will be announced in due course.

“After the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the festival this year will run under the theme Good Vibes Only as Shoko Festival aims to create a unifying platform through the arts, creativity and music,” the organisers said. “The proudly southern African line-up will promote unity and diversity as well as bring together acts from Botswana, Zambia, South Africa and Mozambique.”

Shoko Festival director Comrade Fatso said: “We’re really happy to present such a fun and diverse line-up to our audience. Following on from the terrible xenophobic attacks in South Africa, we felt it was really important to put together a line-up that unites southern African artists and audiences. Celeste brings the laughter, Ti Gonzi brings the vibe and Bazooker brings the fire. It’s definitely going to be a good-vibe festival."

Ti Gonzi will entertain fans at the Unit L Community Hall Grounds in Chitungwiza on 29 September. Born Tinashe Gonzara, Ti Gonzi rose to fame with such tracks as ‘Zvenyu’ and ‘Hurombo’. He has garnered a following from Zimbabwe's youth through his inspirational lyrics. Zimdancehall chanter Bazooker is expected to perform songs like ‘Bho Here’, ‘Ndozvida’ and ‘Rega Ndishaure’.

The festival will also host free conferences, workshops and panels on music, tech and digital innovation. Since its inception, Shoko Festival has hosted such acts as Cassper Nyovest, Tony Rebel, Khuli Chana, AKA, Tehn Diamond, Gemma Griffiths and Clive Chigubhu.

The dates and venues for Shoko Festival are as follows:

• The Hub Unconference – Harare City Library, 27 and 28 September.
• Shoko Comedy Night – Reps Theatre, Harare, 28 September.
• Peace in the Hood Concert – Unit L Community Hall Grounds in Chitungwiza, 29 September.