By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
HARARE — Zimbabwe’s biggest celebration of traditional music is back.
Bira ReMbira returns for its third edition on Friday, 25 September 2026, bringing together an unprecedented lineup of mbira masters, cultural performers and contemporary artists for a full day of music and heritage at the Glamis Arena, Harare Showgrounds.
Entry is free, with the event running from 10am until late.
A Cultural Homecoming
Organised in partnership with Jive Zimbabwe and Multi Media Box, Bira ReMbira has grown into a flagship event on Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar.
The 2026 edition promises to be the biggest yet, with a lineup that reads like a who’s who of Zimbabwean traditional and contemporary music.
Headlining the event are Victor Kunonga, Feli Nandi, Andy Muridzo, Duramazwi, Nyamasvisva and Nemaungira Enharira — a diverse billing that bridges generations and genres while remaining rooted in Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
Mbira Masters Take Centre Stage
True to its name, Bira ReMbira places the mbira at the heart of the festivities. The lineup features an extraordinary gathering of mbira ensembles and practitioners, including:
Amahdhuve Sasha
Kurai Makore
MangwenyA Diana Samkange
Vee Mhofu
Texas Tekanya
Jah Lemmy
Gushungo
Jaka Band
Lioness Shumbakadzi
Ntswai Ntswai Arts
Brity Yonly
Nzombehuru Mbira Ensemble
Pauline Mafrijo
Tatu Maluba
Dzanambira
Mbira Dzenharo
Amb uya Mavhu Mbira Group
Chikwata 263
Batroy Movement
Nemachinda Ehondo Crew
The depth of the lineup speaks to a deliberate effort to honour the mbira tradition while giving it a platform for contemporary expression.
Contemporary Acts Join the Celebration
Beyond the mbira, Bira ReMbira 2026 features a strong contingent of contemporary artists and groups, including:
Nina X and Zariyah Roots Band
Professor Muzvinafundo
Sekuru Gore and Mazana Movement
Ruyamuro Mbira Crew
Rose Wembira
Madzimambo Edu Mbira Family
Culture Livin gstone
Dzimbahwe Mbira Crew
Pastoral Entertainment Group
Masimba Evanhu Mbira Group
Madzinza Embira
Dzamawuruka Mbira Band
Sekuru Mushore Mbira Custodians
Chishawasha Nh are Mbira Group
Izwi Remhondoro Mbira Group
Mbira Dzepadombo
Jangu
Wiriranai Arts and Mbira Group
A Platform for Heritage and Innovation
Bira ReMbira — which translates loosely to “the bira of remembrance” — is more than a music festival. It is a celebration of Zimbabwe’s spiritual and cultural heritage, using the traditional bira ceremony as a framework for artistic expression.
The event also serves as a platform for cultural practitioners to showcase their craft, with exhibitions running alongside the performances. Exhibitors can enquire on 0773478170.
A Free Celebration for All
Organisers have kept entry free to ensure the event remains accessible to all Zimbabweans. The 10am start time allows families to attend during the day, while the evening programme promises a vibrant night of music and dance.
With its blend of legendary mbira ensembles, contemporary stars and cultural exhibitions, Bira ReMbira 2026 is shaping up to be the cultural event of the year.
Organisers: Bira ReMbira, Zimpapers, Jive Zimbabwe, Multi Media Box
Don’t miss the third edition of Bira ReMbira — where Zimbabwe’s past, present and future meet on one stage.
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