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Chart-Topper MaWhoo Returns with New EP Amazwi Okubonga

MaWhoo delivers her highly anticipated new body of work, Amazwi Okubonga, out now on all platforms.

 

Following the record-breaking success of her smash single Bengicelathe release marks another major milestone in her rapidly ascending career.

Amazwi Okubonga  translated to “words of gratitude”  is a nine -track EP that sees MaWhoo channel joy, faith, and heartfelt emotion into sound.

Moving seamlessly between the euphoric pulse of 3-step and the soulful depth of Amapiano, the project explores themes of love, spirituality, and resilience, cementing her reputation as one of South Africa’s most captivating voices.

The project is rich with collaborations, uniting MaWhoo with acclaimed stars such as Zee Nxumalo, Nkosazana Daughter, ThatohatsiTracy and Mthandeni SK while also featuring Mthunzi, Jazzworx, Sykes, Thukuthela, Yumbs, GL_Ceejay, and Deep Sen.

At the same time, MaWhoo extends her platform to rising talents including DJ Veek, DJ 2K, Criimora b.k.z, and ChildDaDj, highlighting her role as both a pioneer and a torchbearer for the culture’s next wave.

The release builds on the phenomenal success of Bengicela, which this week secured its tenth consecutive week at #1 on the BMAT South Africa Chart the longest-running #1 of 2025.

The single also reigned on the Radio Monitor Chart for six weeks, has surpassed 50 million streams across DSPs, and sparked over 1.2 million fan creations generating more than 912 million views across media platforms, cementing its status as one of the year’s defining cultural moments.

For MaWhoo, Amazwi Okubonga serves as both a thank-you to her fans for their unwavering support and a testament of faith, acknowledging God for her continued success.

With her unique voice, spiritual depth, and visionary artistry, she continues to stand tall as one of the leading forces driving the global rise of South Africa’s 3-step and Amapiano movement.

Gwevedzi Redefined Brings ‘Hope’ Home to Theatre in the Park

After setting hearts alight across the country with their soul-stirring rhythms, Afro-acoustic sensation Gwevedzi Redefined is coming full circle — back to where the magic began.

 

On August 29, 2025, the group returns to their spiritual home, Theatre in the Park, riding the waves of acclaim from their latest album, Hope.

The nine-track masterpiece, launched just last month, is more than just music — it’s a movement. A call to remember who we are, where we come from, and what we still dare to dream.

From Harare’s high-profile gigs to intimate acoustic sessions, Hope has sparked a cultural reawakening. And now, the band brings it home.

But don’t let the title fool you — Hope isn’t all sunshine and soft strumming. It stands for Hold On Pain Ends — a bold, beat-driven manifesto wrapped in ancestral dance rhythms like shangara, mhande, dinhe, mbakumba, and amabhiza.

It’s spiritual, it’s political, it’s personal — and it’s unmistakably Gwevedzi.

“We’re saying, ‘Aspire to inspire before you expire,’” says Daves Guzha, producer and founder of Creative Native, the Rooftop Promotions music label behind the album. “It’s about recalibrating a broken compass — culturally, morally, even spiritually.”

Recorded live at Theatre in the Park and mixed by Mbakie Muleya of Audio Academy, the album breathes with raw intensity — a sonic journey through pain, perseverance, and poetic redemption.

Must-listen tracks include:

Kamwenje – A fiery takedown of ego, greed, and envy

Rise – A foot-stomping anthem of hope and resilience

Zuva – A delicate reminder that no matter how dark it gets, the sun always returns

Hi – A love song that’s both vulnerable and empowering

And let’s talk sound. Gwevedzi Redefined isn’t just another band — they’re innovators. From haunting vocal harmonies to a percussion setup featuring mortar and pestle, their sound is as unique as their message.

The band compises: Wilfred “Dancing Strongs” Nikisi (29) – Bass with swagger, LeeAnne “Matalamanda” Rukato (23) – Lead vocals & percussion queen, Tinashe Musangutsa (35) – Guitar wizard and rhythm soul and Joshua Msengezi (19) – Drum prodigy lighting up every beat.

Their name, Gwevedzi, means suitor in Shona — a fitting symbol for music that courts the spirit, woos the heart, and brings people together.

Brendan Taylor named in Zimbabwe’s squad for ODI series against Sri Lanka

Zimbabwe have announced a 16-man squad for the two-match one-day international (ODI) series against Sri Lanka, with veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor making a highly anticipated return to the national side.

 

The matches are scheduled for 29 and 31 August at Harare Sports Club, marking Taylor’s first ODI appearance since facing Ireland in September 2021.

Captained by Craig Ervine, the squad blends experienced campaigners with emerging talent as Zimbabwe transitions from the red-ball format – having played seven Tests since their last ODI in February – into the fast-paced demands of limited-overs cricket.

Middle-order mainstays Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza are expected to provide stability, while the pace attack receives a boost from a fit-again Richard Ngarava alongside Blessing Muzarabani.

The squad also includes four players who did not feature in Zimbabwe’s last ODI series against Ireland in February: Clive Madande, Tony Munyonga, Brad Evans and uncapped seamer Ernest Masuku.

“We are delighted to welcome Brendan back into the fold,” Zimbabwe Convener of Selectors David Mutendera said.

“His experience and quality are invaluable, especially in pressure situations, and his presence will no doubt lift the dressing room.

“This squad has been selected to give us the best chance against a strong Sri Lankan side.

“We have combined proven match-winners with players who are hungry to make their mark, and that mix of experience and energy will be crucial as we transition from red-ball cricket to the fast pace of ODIs.”

Head Coach Justin Sammons added: “We’ve just come off a tough red-ball series and now it’s about adjusting to the tempo and intensity of one-day cricket.

“Sri Lanka are a strong white-ball side and will punish any lapses, so we need to be sharp from ball one.

“Clarity in roles will be key – each player must understand exactly what’s required. Get that right, and I believe we can compete strongly against a very disciplined Sri Lankan outfit.”

Captain Craig Ervine said: “Switching from red-ball to white-ball cricket is always a test, especially against a team of Sri Lanka’s calibre.

“We need to stay flexible, back our plans and make the most of our home conditions to compete strongly in both matches.”

ZIMBABWE SQUAD FOR ODI SERIES VS SRI LANKA:

Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Trevor Gwandu, Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande, Ernest Masuku, Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams.

Marumani blitz, Muzondo heroics, Cremer fifer headline NPL weekend

A brilliant innings of 73 off 37 balls by Tadiwanashe Marumani propelled Rangers to a six-wicket victory over Chiredzi in their National Premier League (NPL) match at Masvingo Sports Club on Sunday.

 

Chiredzi, batting first, struggled to 132 all out, after being 89 for nine.

First man Blessed Muzite and last man Tawananyasha Kasondo both scored 32, while Wallace Mubayiwa and Ethan Cunningham both took three wickets.

With Marumani opening the batting and hitting two sixes and 10 fours, Rangers swept to victory in only 17 overs.

Chiredzi – 132 all out in 34.2 overs (Tawananyasha Kasondo 32, Blessed Muzite 32, Gabriel Jaya 23*; Ethan Cunningham 3/8, Wallace Mubayiwa 3/30, Benjamin Banks 1/22)

 Rangers – 133-4 in 17 overs (Tadiwanashe Marumani 71, Sean Bennett 22*, Nick Welch 18; Tendai Masunda 1/14, Tawananyasha Kasondo 1/15, Nkosilathi Nungu 1/18)

 Rangers won by six wickets

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Gladiators – 158 all out in 33.4 overs (Leeroy Chiwaula 36, Kohl Eksteen 27*, Ashley Mufandauya 22; Brandon Senzere 2/15, Daichi Nyandoro 2/25, Shelton Mazvitorera 2/50)

Takashinga Patriots 2 – 156 all out in 27.3 overs (Tanunurwa Makoni 44, Daichi Nyandoro 34, Marshall Takodza 34; Owen Muzondo 4/27, Phase Mukabeta 3/31, Kohl Eksteen 2/48)

 Gladiators won by two runs

Gladiators held their nerve to clinch a dramatic two-run win over Takashinga Patriots 2 at Old Hararians Sports Club on Sunday, thanks to a match-turning spell from Owen Muzondo.

Batting first, Gladiators were dismissed for 158 in 33.4 overs, with Leeroy Chiwaula (36) top-scoring.

For Takashinga, Brandon Senzere, Daichi Nyandoro and Shelton Mazvitorera picked up two wickets apiece.

Chasing what appeared a modest target, Takashinga were cruising at 117 for six after solid knocks from Tanunurwa Makoni (44) and Marshall Takodza (34).

But Phase Mukabeta, who claimed three for 31, triggered a middle-order collapse before captain Nyandoro mounted a heroic counterattack, blasting 34 off 22 balls to bring his side within touching distance.

At 156, just three runs from victory, Muzondo struck twice in three balls to dismiss Nyandoro and the last man, sealing an unforgettable win for Gladiators.

Muzondo finished with four wickets for 27 runs.

*********************************************

Westside – 79 all out in 23.5 overs (Frank Mazviita 17, Malachi Harry 16, Michael Maposa 9; Graeme Cremer 5/13, Samuel Muyambo 3/13, Antum Naqvi 2/33)

Takashinga Patriots 1 – 81-1 in 6.5 overs (Innocent Kaia 38*, Joylord Gumbie 26, Tafadzwa Tsiga 11*)

Takashinga Patriots 1 won by nine wickets

Graeme Cremer took five cheap wickets for 13 runs for Takashinga Patriots 1 as they wrapped up their NPL match against Westside, played at Masvingo Sports Club on Saturday, before lunch.

Samuel Muyambo took the first three wickets to fall for 13 runs as Westside batted first.

After a brief recovery, Cremer dashed out the tail, taking the last five wickets as Westside were bundled out for 79.

Takashinga took only 6.5 overs to chase down this target, with Joylord Gumbie scoring 26 off 17 balls before being run out, and Innocent Kaia a brilliant unbeaten 38 off just 16 balls.

*********************************************

Alexandra – 104 all out in 25.2 overs (Aliakbar Hamid 26, Takunda Manyama 18, Ahsan Aqil Ali 16; Tawanda Maposa 4/33, Talent Dzikiti 3/5, Tinotenda Maposa 3/22)

Amakhosi 1 – 106-4 in 16.2 overs (Tawanda Maposa 30, Brian Chari 24*, Thamsanqa Nunu 18; Victor Nyauchi 2/39, Zubair Khan 2/47)

 Amakhosi 1 won by six wickets

Amakhosi 1 cruised to a six-wicket win over Alexandra at Kwekwe Sports Club on Saturday, thanks to a disciplined bowling display from the Maposa brothers.

Alex were bundled out for 104 in 25.2 overs, with only opener Aliakbar Hamid (26) offering resistance.

Tawanda Maposa led the bowling attack with four for 33, while his brother Tinotenda and Talent Dzikiti claimed two wickets apiece.

In reply, Amakhosi overcame the loss of two early wickets to reach 106 for four in 16.2 overs.

Tawanda Maposa chipped in with 30 before Brian Chari (24 not out) steered them comfortably home.

*********************************************

Eastern Titans – 101 all out in 34.3 overs (Prosper Mugeri 28, Tendai Chatara 24, Takudzwa Nyamugure 10; Hendricks Macheke 4/25, Isaac Okpe 2/12, Ronald Masocha 1/15)

Mbizo – 103-5 in 17.4 overs (Clive Madziyo 21*, Isaac Okpe 18*, Kevin Kasuza 17; Tatenda Mupunga 2/24, Prosper Mugeri 2/35, Definate Mawadzi 1/14)

 Mbizo won by five wickets

Eastern Titans slumped to a five-wicket defeat against Mbizo after another top-order failure left them with too little to defend at Old Hararians Sports Club on Saturday.

Batting first, Titans collapsed to 58 for eight, with Hendricks Macheke leading the charge to finish with four wickets for 25 runs.

A ninth-wicket stand of 41 between Prosper Mugeri (28) and Tendai Chatara (24) lifted them to 101 all out.

Mbizo stuttered in their reply, slipping to 70 for five, but Clive Madziyo (21 not out) and Isaac Okpe (18 not out) steadied the ship to guide their side to 103 for five in 17.4 overs.

*********************************************

 Queens Sports Club – 208 all out in 41.4 overs (Petros Sithole 65, Dananai Rangayi 45, Nkosana Mpofu 25; Cedric Dube 6/31, Sean Phiri 1/21, Luyanda Mtomba 1/39)

Amakhosi 2 – 118 all out in 40.1 overs (Farai Gunda 30, Cedric Dube 14, Tinashe Mujuru 14; Chris Mpofu 3/19, Tanatswa Bechani 3/32, Vusi Kasipani 2/9)

 Queens Sports Club won by 90 runs

Despite a remarkable six-wicket haul by Cedric Dube, Amakhosi 2 went down to Queens Sports Club on the Bulawayo Athletic Club ground by 90 runs.

Queens, batting first, were in trouble at 89 for six, with Dube’s four wickets at this point having brought about a middle-order collapse.

But Dube, while finishing with six for 31, could not bowl all the time, and Petros Sithole led a Queens revival with 65, helping the final total to 208 all out.

Amakhosi were never in the hunt – apart from opener Farai Gunda with 30, the other top six batters scored 21 runs among them, three of them falling to the pace of Chris Mpofu.

A little resistance from the tail could only take their total to 118 all out.

*********************************************

Methane Lions – 291-8 in 45 overs (Bright Njanji 42, Huzefa Ali 40, Ashwell Karuma 40; Davis Murwendo 2/49, Nyasha Dube 2/54, Tanyaradzwa Banda 1/21)

Rimuka – 266 all out in 43.4 overs (Tashinga Musekiwa 111, Davis Murwendo 27, Nyasha Dube 18*; Allen Mhuka 4/49, Stanley Joe 1/10, Tatenda Utumbe 1/23)

 Methane Lions won by 25 runs

A superb innings of 111 from Tashinga Musekiwa was not enough to take Rimuka to victory over Methane Lions at Kadoma Sports Club on Saturday, as they went down by 25 runs in a well-fought and high-scoring NPL game.

Lions, going in first, scored with remarkable consistency, the first four batters being the four top scorers: Huzefa Ali and Ashwell Karuma both made 40, Bright Njanji 42 and Jimmy Ngangoni 37.

The eventual total was a daunting 291 for eight wickets.

Rimuka made a bad start with their first three wickets going down for 37.

Then Musekiwa came along with his brilliant 111, scored off only 79 balls and containing six sixes and six fours.

But he had too little support from the others and Rimuka were dismissed for 266.

CeCe Winans Touches Down in Harare Tonight Ahead of ‘More Than This’ Concert

Gospel legend CeCe Winans is scheduled to arrive in Zimbabwe tonight Monday, August 25, 2025, ahead of her highly anticipated one-night concert at the Celebration Centre the following evening.

 

The Harare stop is part of her global “More Than This” tour, which has been drawing capacity crowds around the world.

The concert, organised by Events by GEC, is already generating overwhelming demand, with tickets nearly sold out. VIP passes are priced at $60, while general access tickets are $30.

Joining Winans on Monday evening will be Rorisang Thandekiso, the South African broadcaster, author, and speaker who will host the event.

This marks her second major engagement in Zimbabwe, following her well-received role as host of the Kingdom World Tour by Maverick City Music in 2024 also organised by Events by GEC.

The opening ministry for Tuesday’s concert will feature two of Zimbabwe’s most respected gospel figures, Bonnie Deuschle and Janet Manyowa, setting the stage for what is expected to be a powerful evening of worship.

According to Lyncolin Kapswara, Event Director at Events by GEC, final preparations are complete, and audiences can expect an unforgettable night.

“Everything is in place for what we believe will be a life-changing time in the presence of the Lord,” Kapswara said.

“What makes this event unique is that it falls midweek, giving believers a special opportunity to gather on a Tuesday night and experience something extraordinary. With CeCe Winans, Bonnie Deuschle, and Janet Manyowa sharing the platform, we are confident this will be one of the most memorable worship encounters Zimbabwe has ever witnessed.”

Kapswara added that the near sell-out status of the event reflects the strong appetite for gospel music in Zimbabwe, as well as the enduring appeal of Winans’ artistry.

For fans, the concert marks a rare opportunity to see the multi-Grammy Award-winning artist live in Harare.

Winans, widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in gospel music, is expected to perform selections from her acclaimed “More Than This” album along with classics that have defined her decades-long career.

Core Vibes and All In One Advance to Chibuku Road to Fame 2025 Finals

The first provincial competitions of the Chibuku Road to Fame 2025 talent search have concluded, with Core Vibes from Midlands Province and All In One from Mashonaland West securing their places in this year’s national finals.

 

The two Afro-fusion groups emerged victorious in their respective provincial rounds over the weekend, each taking home US$2,500 in prize money and earning a shot at the national grand finale scheduled for later this year.

In Midlands, Core Vibes delivered what judges described as a “polished and dynamic” performance, edging out Ambassadors, who finished second with US$1,500, and Ecossa Rhythms, who claimed third place and US$1,000.

Mashonaland West’s competition was equally fierce, with All In One winning over the crowd and the judges to secure first place.

The contemporary outfit Boom Jazz took second, while Nhapi Tapi rounded out the top three.

The provincial showcases mark the beginning of Chibuku Road to Fame’s 25th anniversary edition, which is running under the theme “25 Years of Discovering Talent.”

Mashonaland West’s All In One

Organised by Delta Beverages in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), the competition has long been a launchpad for emerging musicians, particularly those from grassroots communities.

This year’s format has been revamped, with provincial contests consolidated into six larger finals across the country.

The top three acts from each will progress to the national stage, where the country’s top 10 groups will compete for a US$15,000 grand prize and a recording contract.

Organisers say the new format is designed to heighten competition while providing greater exposure to performers.

The next provincial events are expected to draw significant interest as musicians vie for a place in what is considered Zimbabwe’s premier music talent platform.

Bonnie Deuschle and Janet Manyowa to Share Stage With CeCe Winans in Harare

The Zimbabwean gospel music scene is preparing for a historic night as Bonnie Deuschle and Janet Manyowa join the lineup for CeCe Winans’ “More Than This” Tour stop in Harare.

 

The concert is scheduled for August 26, 2025, at the Celebration Centre, and anticipation is already high for what promises to be a landmark event.

Deuschle, founder of the iconic Celebration Choir, will provide the opening ministry alongside the ensemble, while Manyowa, one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent contemporary gospel voices, will also take the stage before Winans’ headline performance.

According to Lyncolin Kapswara, Event Director at Events by GEC, the organisers of the concert, the inclusion of Deuschle and Manyowa brings a uniquely Zimbabwean depth to the evening.

“Bonnie Deuschle has been a cornerstone of Zimbabwean worship music for decades, and her leadership with the Celebration Choir has touched countless lives,” Kapswara said.

“Janet Manyowa represents a new generation of gospel excellence, with her music resonating far beyond our borders. Having them minister alongside CeCe Winans creates a powerful blend of heritage, innovation, and faith that audiences can expect to be both uplifting and unforgettable.”

Kapswara added that the concert is designed to offer more than music: “This is not just about performances. It’s about creating an atmosphere of worship and inspiration that transcends cultures and generations.”

Winans, one of the most decorated gospel artists in history, will headline the evening as part of her global “More Than This” tour, which has been met with sold-out venues and critical acclaim.

For Zimbabwean audiences, the concert is being framed as a rare convergence of international and local talent. Tickets are already in high demand, with organisers expecting a capacity crowd.

Infant Dies During ZIFA Referees’ Training Seminar

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has confirmed a tragic incident that occurred on Wednesday during a referees’ training seminar.

 

“One of the female participants, who had attended with her two children, suffered the sudden and unexpected loss of her infant child during the course of the event.

“Despite immediate efforts to render assistance, the child sadly passed away,” the association said in a statement.

ZIFA added that the matter had been referred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who are now handling the case in accordance with the law.

No further details were released, though the association said it is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities and is offering support to the bereaved mother during this difficult time.

Stanbic Bank-backed Stragglers Junior Cricket Week Returns with 540 Young Players

The Stragglers Junior Cricket Week, Zimbabwe’s flagship grassroots cricket development programme, is set to take place from 25 August at St George’s College and Hartmann House.

 

Sponsored by Stanbic Bank, the event will bring together 540 boys and girls from Grades 4 to 7 for a week of intensive training and spirited competition.

Now in its long-running partnership with Stanbic Bank, the initiative continues to open opportunities for children from diverse socio-economic and geographic backgrounds, with participants coming from across Zimbabwe as well as South Africa and the United Kingdom.

This year’s edition has grown, welcoming about 40 more players than last year.

Event coordinator Monica Petzer confirmed that the tried-and-tested format will remain in place. Children rotate through batting, bowling, and fielding positions to ensure equal participation and exposure.

Each player bowls a minimum of two overs per game, and batting orders change daily to give everyone a fair chance. Teams are named after cricket-playing nations, with matches set up so that every “country” faces a different opponent each day.

Petzer stressed that this inclusive approach builds both skills and passion for the game, with many participants going on to represent their schools and provinces.

“The development teams, which typically have limited exposure to competitive fixtures, benefit immensely from facing opponents they would not ordinarily encounter during the school term,” she said.

A distinctive feature of the week is the mix of children from elite schools and those from development teams. Organisers say this interaction fosters camaraderie, respect, and mutual learning.

“It’s heartening to see children from different walks of life learning from each other and growing together,” Petzer noted, adding that the encounters often transform confidence and broaden players’ understanding of cricket.

Stanbic Bank has sponsored the programme for over 15 years, providing crucial support during challenging economic conditions. Petzer acknowledged the bank’s role in sustaining the event:

“Stanbic Bank’s continued support has been nothing short of phenomenal. Their sponsorship allows us to maintain the quality and reach of the programme, ensuring that every child has access to a memorable and enriching cricket experience.”

The sponsorship has also enabled the Stragglers Cricket Academy to host 15 development sides annually and deepen its impact on grassroots cricket.

Tariro Memo, acting head of brand and marketing at Stanbic Bank, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative.

“It is incredibly rewarding to be part of a programme that gives young players a chance to gain new experiences in the world of cricket. These events have become a cornerstone for cultivating future stars, and we are proud to keep that legacy alive,” she said.

Memo emphasised that the bank’s commitment goes beyond sponsorship. “We have watched this platform mould not just cricketers, but confident, disciplined individuals. That is why we have remained invested not just in the sport but the communities it uplifts as well.”

The week is carefully scheduled, with Grade 4 and 5 players competing in the mornings, and Grade 6 and 7 players in the afternoons.

Chibuku Road to Fame Unveils Revamped Format for 25th Anniversary

One of Zimbabwe’s longest-running music competitions, Chibuku Road to Fame, is set to return this August 2025 with a milestone celebration of its 25th anniversary.

 

The talent search, organised by Delta Beverages in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), has been a launchpad for aspiring artists since its inception. This year’s edition will run from August 23 to October 4, under the theme “25 Years of Discovering Talent.”

Over the years, the competition has helped uncover and nurture some of the country’s most prominent performers, providing a platform for grassroots musicians to break into the mainstream.

Organisers say the anniversary edition will not only honour that legacy but also introduce new twists to keep the contest fresh.

In a departure from previous years, the provincial finals have been consolidated into six events, with each featuring 20 groups. After performances, results will be announced before the next province competes, a change aimed at heightening suspense and engagement.

From each provincial round, three winners will advance to the National Grand Finale, where the top 10 acts will battle for the ultimate title.

Winners at the provincial stage will earn: 1st Prize: $2,500, 2nd Prize: $1,500 and 3rd Prize: $1,000.

At the National Finals, the stakes rise considerably: 1st Prize: $15,000 plus a recording contract, 2nd Prize: $10,000 and 3rd Prize: $7,000.

Organisers say the prize structure reflects the competition’s commitment to not only rewarding talent but also investing in the long-term careers of emerging musicians.

Beyond the performances, Delta Beverages says Chibuku Road to Fame remains rooted in community engagement.

The brand has long used music and dance to connect with consumers, describing the competition as a way of “nourishing the bonds of brotherhood” among audiences.