Staff Writer
BULAWAYO – The City of Kings will come alive with rhythm and soul on Friday, 12 September, as the 2025 Zimbabwe Jazz Festival kicks off its fourth Bulawayo edition at Alliance Française, 61 Heyman Road, from 6–10 PM.
Presented by the Zimbabwe Jazz Community Trust and Alliance Française Zimbabwe, this year’s festival promises a global musical feast, featuring acclaimed local and international acts. Headlining the Bulawayo leg are hometown heroines
Dudu Manhenga and Amanda Tiffin, joined by the celebrated Tich Makalisa Band, rising saxophone star Vee Mukarati, and the genre-bending Frank Salis Experience — a collaboration of artists from Zimbabwe, Italy, Zambia, and the US.
Dudu Manhenga, a beloved afrojazz vocalist, returns home for the first time in years. “It’s been a while since I have been home and I am looking forward to an amazing time,” she said.
In Harare, the celebration continues on Saturday, 13 September, with performances at Alliance Française, 328 Herbert Chitepo Avenue, featuring an expanded lineup including Josh Meck, Mbare Jazz, and The Legacy Band.
The festival is backed by key sponsors, including the French Embassy, Delta Beverages (Golden Pilsener), and several international embassies helping to bring global talent to Zimbabwean stages.
Filbert Marova, Artistic Director of ZJCT, summed it up: “This year’s programme blends the deep-rooted heritage of jazz with bold, forward-thinking innovation, creating an unforgettable experience.”
Tickets:
Bulawayo: US$10/15
Harare: US$20
For lovers of rhythm, culture, and collaboration — this is a jazz story not to be missed.
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