Spotlight: In the world of live events, precision, innovation, and technical mastery define the success of productions. In Zimbabwe, one name stands out in the evolution of event production, Tatenda Rushwaya. As the Technical Project Manager and Audio Visual Expert at Events Evolution, Zimbabwe’s leading full-service provider of technical equipment for live productions, Tatenda is redefining the country’s events industry with world-class standards.

From seamlessly managing major concerts to pioneering technological advancements in production, Tatenda’s work ensures that Zimbabwean events meet global benchmarks. His commitment to pushing boundaries is not only elevating Zimbabwe’s entertainment sector but also positioning the country as a serious contender in Africa’s events space.

With nearly a decade of experience in the field, Tatenda Rushwaya has an unparalleled understanding of what it takes to execute a flawless event. His expertise spans sound, lighting, stage design, and technical project management, ensuring that every production delivers an immersive experience for audiences.

When asked about where he sees the Zimbabwean events industry in the next decade, Tatenda shares an optimistic yet pragmatic vision:

“Zimbabwe’s events industry has the potential to grow significantly over the next 10 years, driven by technological advancements and increased regional and international collaboration. The adoption of digital tools, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) could transform the industry, making events more accessible and engaging.”

Tatenda recalls his talk at the Stanbic Jacaranda Music Business Conference in October 2024, where he spoke about technology’s role in the music and events industry. He envisions a future where hybrid events that blend with in-person and virtual experiences, will become a commonplace soon, allowing broader participation and international reach.

Zimbabwe’s unique cultural heritage and breathtaking attractions, such as Victoria Falls and Great Zimbabwe, could also make the country a preferred destination for international conferences, festivals, and sporting events. Collaborations with regional bodies like the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) could open doors for more large-scale productions.

While the potential for growth is immense, Tatenda acknowledges the industry’s challenges. Infrastructure limitations, including inadequate transportation, accommodation, and a lack of large indoor venues, remain a pressing issue.

“A good example is the dispute between Gateway Stream Media, Celestial Soirée, and Winky D over securing the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC). If Zimbabwe had more world-class indoor venues, especially during the rainy season, such issues could be avoided,” he explains.

However, with a young and dynamic population, Zimbabwe could see a surge in innovative event formats, such as tech expos, gaming tournaments, and youth-driven festivals. Cross-border partnerships with neighboring countries could also create exciting new opportunities in tourism and cultural exchange.

Tatenda is not only a leader in event production but also a mentor committed to uplifting young creatives. At Events Evolution, he spearheads programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of technical professionals.

“For the last seven years, we’ve partnered with Midlands State University (MSU) to empower young creatives. MSU sends students on attachment, allowing them to gain real-world experience in the events industry. We help them build skills in event design, sound engineering, lighting, and technology,” he shares.

Tatenda and his team also go beyond training by offering financial support, including paying university fees for students who show exceptional talent and dedication. Through workshops, professional connections, and mentorship, he ensures that Zimbabwe’s events industry continues to thrive with skilled professionals.

Tatenda Rushwaya’s impact on Zimbabwe’s events industry cannot be overstated. His leadership at Events Evolution is helping transform local productions into world-class experiences, ensuring that the country is not left behind in Africa’s booming entertainment sector.

As Zimbabwe positions itself for greater global recognition, professionals like Tatenda are laying the groundwork for a future where Zimbabwean events are not only celebrated locally but also attract international audiences. His mission is clear—embrace technology, invest in infrastructure, and empower young talent to create a thriving, innovative, and competitive industry.

“There is a lot of competition in the Zimbabwean film and events industry. Everyone wants to outdo the other, which is pushing creatives to produce internationally relevant content. We are all aiming at putting Zimbabwe on the global entertainment map.”

With visionaries like Tatenda Rushwaya leading the way, Zimbabwe’s events industry is on the cusp of an exciting transformation.

Tatenda has worked on prestigious local and international events, setting new benchmarks for quality and innovation. Some of his standout projects include: Transform Africa Summit 2023 – A major continental event hosting six African Presidents and over 5,000 attendees, requiring complex translation and broadcasting setups. Burna Boy Zimbabwe Tour 2022 – Managing technical logistics for one of Africa’s biggest artists, ensuring a world-class production experience. Zimbabwe Trade Fair – Econet Wireless Exhibition Stand – His team’s work earned the Best ICT Award, showcasing the seamless integration of technology and branding in event production. National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) 2019-2023 – Leading the technical execution for Zimbabwe’s premier arts awards. The Vine Concert (Zimbabwe & South Africa 2022) – Overcoming a tight four-day timeline to custom-build an entire production setup, proving his ability to deliver under immense pressure.

Tatenda’s work is not just about executing events; it’s about redefining standards. He believes in delivering productions that match the best in the world, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s live event space evolves with international trends.