The Sunday Mail
Tendai Chara
THE atmosphere was simply electric.
Thousands of revellers, drawn from all age groups and social standings, could be seen mixing and mingling as they enjoyed themselves in this 7 000 square metre recreational facility.
A look at the crammed car park, in which motorists will have to literally push their way out, points to the fact that the entertainment joint is a haven for both the rich and the poor.
Revellers using public transport as well as those walking to the entertainment joint from the nearby suburbs of Glen View, Glen Norah and Highfield, could be seen hurriedly trooping to the already congested area.
Welcome to Mashwede Village, one of Harare’s most popular recreational facility.
Recently opened amid pomp and fanfare, the joint has brought a new meaning to outdoor leisure.
Located along Highglen Road near the Glen View Furniture Complex, the recreational facility is unique in that it has many facilities under one roof.
A children’s play centre, food outlets, butchery, bars and a braai area are some of the features that are drawing revellers to this joint in their numbers.
Since its opening some two months ago, the joint has been, without doubt, one of the most frequented entertainment spots in Harare.
Last week, The Sunday Mail Society visited the joint
Basing on the interactions with the revellers, the different approach to entertainment is the main factor drawing revellers to this joint.
“Basically, this joint has a unique set-up. First and foremost, it is smart and secure. Secondly, revellers can get almost everything they want under one roof,” said a reveller who introduced himself as Max.
As one enters the complex, a fast food outlet comes into view. Further down the sprawling complex are braai stands and several alcohol selling points.
The main building comprises a butchery and two well-furnished bars.
Apart from the main bar, weekends, the joint also boasts a VIP enclosure.
What sets the Mashwede Village aside from most entertainment spots is that revellers do not have to pay to enter the facility. They are even allowed to bring their own drinks.
“This is a unique arrangement and I think this is one of the major drawcards. Unlike other places, ice is given free of charge for those that buy their drinks here. This is a plus for the joint,” added Max.
Alex Mashamhanda, the proprietor, said as a businessman, he feels that he has a moral obligation to provide a facility where people with various tastes can freely mix and mingle.
“We have very few leisure centres that cater for people from different social and financial backgrounds. This place is not only about drinking. We have a children’s play centre. an industrial park and a flea market. A shopping mall with soon be added to the set-up,” Mashamhanda said.
True to his word, tucked at the back of the complex is a children’s play centre. Here, children get to enjoy themselves under the watchful eye of child minders.
However, the more conservative parents might find the idea of having children at a drinking hole a bit unsettling, especially considering the age restrictions at some entertainment joints.
