Zimbabwean musicians, visual artists, fashion designers and cultural entrepreneurs converged in Harare at the third edition of Sofar Sounds Zimbabwe, using intimate live performances and artistic collaboration to celebrate African identity while connecting local talent to a global creative network.
With audiences encouraged to switch off their phones and immerse themselves in the performances, the globally recognised platform demonstrated how Zimbabwean talent continues to resonate internationally through authentic storytelling and artistic collaboration.
Organiser and curator Khumbulani Muleya described the event as a resounding success, saying its growing popularity has created demand for an even bigger festival. Held under the Music Connects Africa programme, the Launchpad Edition featured Aggabu Nyabinde, Mwendamberi and Sahi, all members of the 2026 Music Connects Africa cohort. He said the line-up reflected Zimbabwe's diverse musical identity while connecting local audiences to Sofar Sounds' global network of more than 350 cities.
Acoustic singer-songwriter Nyabinde opened the afternoon with Handikundike, Kushanda, Chabuda Hapana and Manyambiri, drawing the audience into an intimate musical journey. Mwendamberi followed with soulful renditions of Mweya Wangu, Bvuma, Burutsai Masimba and Asi Mwari, blending reflective lyrics with intricate guitar arrangements.
Bulawayo-based mbira artistSahi closed the musical showcase with an energetic performance that fused traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with contemporary expression, even drawing master of ceremonies Ms Chi onto the dance floor.
Speaking after her performance, Sahi credited pioneering female mbira musicians — including the late Chioniso Maraire, Mbuya Stella Chiweshe, Mary Anibal and Hope Masike — as key influences. She also expressed interest in collaborating with Masike, Mary Anibal, Jah Prayzah and Feli Nandi to further celebrate Zimbabwean music.
Nyabinde said performing at the Jacaranda Music Festival remains one of his career highlights, describing it as an important platform for local artistes. He also announced that his new album will be released on August 15, adding that Handikundike, written while he was in college, remains one of his most personal songs because it symbolises perseverance.
Zimbabwean visual artist John Mazhindu, who is based in Paris, exhibited portrait collections exploring African identity, spirituality and the diaspora. His works included Move It Is, which explores identity and vulnerability; Eve, an African interpretation of the biblical figure; Communion, inspired by faith; and Diaspora, which examines reconnection with African heritage.
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A graduate of the Paris College of Art, Mazhindu praised Sofar Sounds for creating meaningful interactions between artists and audiences beyond traditional gallery spaces.
The event also celebrated Zimbabwe's creative economy through exhibitions by fashion designers, artisans and entrepreneurs. Africa Essence showcased African-inspired fashion and accessories crafted from Maasai beadwork, Ankara and Chitenge fabrics, while Shonga Atelier presented handcrafted brass body sculptures inspired by African monuments and architecture. Crochet designer Vimbai Jaricha displayed handmade accessories passed down through generations, and Chero Chai founder Nkosikelelo Nkomo Mabhobho introduced speciality teas sourced from across Africa, reinforcing the festival's continental theme.
Founded in London in 2009, Sofar Sounds is a global live music movement that stages intimate concerts in unique venues while promoting emerging talent and meaningful audience engagement. In Zimbabwe, it has become an important platform for artists seeking international exposure through its worldwide creative network.
The third edition was delivered through the Music Connects Africa programme by K-Media Africa with support from the British Council and the Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe. Organisers also acknowledged the British Embassy for hosting the event and supporting cultural exchange that continues to create opportunities for Zimbabwean creatives to connect with global audiences.
