The Sunday Mail
Andrew Moyo
WHILE Victoria Falls hosts the biggest New Year’s celebrations on the continent, the Vic Falls Carnival, locals have often complained that they feel excluded in the festivities since the ticket prices for the event are steep for many.
However, Patrick Musonza (DJ Spevah) and Hweva Mvura (DollarbillThatDj) came up with an affordable alternative, the Mapopoma Festival, which is meant to cater for the town’s locals.
The event ran alongside the Vic Falls Carnival last year.
It is back again this year, kicking off on December 29, spilling into the New Year.
Despite the first edition’s lukewarm reception, organisers have upped the stacks this time around, with a stellar line-up that features top DJs and MCs from various parts of the country.
Some of the acts set to perform include DJ Professor, Snizzle, Jerry Springer, Big Doller Bruce, Merciless, Ras Pompy, Fortress Dee, Afrikas Movement, Valimba Vibe Africa and DJ Cleazer.
To prove that they really mean business, they have also gone for a bigger venue, Chinotimba Stadium, which is located in the area where the greater part of their target audience stays.
Speaking to The Sunday Mail Society, DollarbillThatDj said they created the event in order to promote township tourism.
“After realising the shortcomings of the Vic Falls Carnival, we decided to promote township and local tourism as a fringe to the carnival,” said DollarbillThatDj.
“We are more localised, promoting Zimbabwean art for Zimbabweans and foreigners alike. We want to teach every one about Zimbabwean culture, music, traditions, human connections and ultimately foster the unified spirit of Ubuntu.
He added that with a few days to go, they are still engaging other artistes to make additions to their list.
“We have more of a localised line-up. While we are still engaging other live performers, we are confident in the exciting list of the traditional artists and DJs we already have.
“Our inaugural Mapopoma Festival was awesome and electric. It exceeded our expectations.
“This year, our venue is bigger and is right in the heart of Victoria Falls.”
Tickets for the event are ranging between US$15 and US$65, depending on the package revellers opt for.
