Zim: Shoko Festival shares 2023 line-up

Now in its 13th edition, this year’s festival has been dubbed #TheTakeBack – a call to young Zimbabweans to reclaim their space and art to create a better future.

Confirmed headlining acts include local artists Bling4, Gemma Griffiths and Nutty O, as well as Jordan Moozy (Botswana) and Xabiso Vili (South Africa).

The festival will feature a variety of events, including the opening Mash Up Night, the popular Shoko Comedy Roast, the Hub Unconference and the Peace In The Hood concert.

“This year we are giving the people an inspiring three days of powerful music, thought-provoking talks and riotous laughter,” Shoko Festival director Farai
‘Comrade Fatso’ said. “Join us to hear young people reclaim their voices and their art forms.”

Curated by artist Thando Mlambo’s Dark Art Matters collective, the opening night will kick off on 28 September at Moto Republik, taking the audience on a sonic journey featuring hip hop star Noluntu J, Maskandi duo Aphiwe & Sobancane and electronic producer DJ Rori, among others.

On 29 September, Reps Theatre will host Shoko Roast, with former Zimbabwean legislator Temba Mliswa as a featured guest. This year’s roast, presented by Simuka Comedy, will feature outspoken entrepreneur Kuda Musasiwa on the hot seat. Kuda Musasiwa, aka Begotten Sun, wears many hats, including farmer, entrepreneur, music producer and activist. Top comedian Doc Vikela will host the roast, alongside R Peels (musician), Candace Mwakalyelye (broadcaster) and Ricky Fire (musician) as panellists.

The festival will close on 30 September with the Peace In The Hood, a day-long concert in Chitungwiza’s Unit L suburb. The event will feature performances from Bling 4, Gemma Griffiths, Nutty O, Bagga, Mycole Biller, Hwinza, and others.

Designed by Magamba Network, Shoko Festival is a celebration of free expression, urban art and alternative youth culture.The organisers say the 2023 event remains true to its values of providing a platform for both emerging and established artists to share the same stage.

Find more about Shoko Festival here.