The exceptional partnership began when Mr. Walter Wanyanya met Mr. Palmer Mugavha, Head of Branding and Marketing, at the Stanbic Acacia Jazz Festival in Mozambique. Stanbic Bank’s interest in sponsoring festivals across Africa demonstrates the bank’s commitment not only to business but also to promoting the arts.

The Stanbic Jacaranda Festival provides a platform for emerging musicians to showcase their talent to the world, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity. Mary Anibal, who had a life-changing performance at the festival in 2022, testified to the significant impact it had on her career. Mr. Napoleon Nyanhi, Director of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, praised the festival for meeting international standards, aligning with Vision 2030, and allowing Zimbabweans to “flex their vibe,” in line with this year’s theme: The Music, The People, and The City.

The Permanent Secretary for Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, Honorable Nicholas Moyo, officiated the festival and encouraged greater participation in Zimbabwean festivals. During his recent travels to the Netherlands, he encountered Dutch nationals inquiring about the return of HIFA (Harare International Festival of the Arts), indicating Zimbabwe’s potential to make a significant mark in the arts sector.

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“At Stanbic, we firmly believe that Zimbabwe is our home, and we drive her growth. At Group level, we say Africa is our home, and we drive her growth. Our commitment to this continent and our nation is unwavering. We are proud sponsors of the Stanbic Bank Jacaranda Music Festival as we recognize the vital role of artists in enriching our culture and heritage,” said Mahatchi.

Mahatchi highlighted that events like the Stanbic Bank Jacaranda Music Festival play a crucial role in boosting tourism and showcasing Zimbabwe’s vibrant culture to the world. He also emphasized the festival’s contribution to the country’s employment creation efforts, with numerous individuals involved in the event’s value chain.

“Our efforts extend beyond entertainment. We are driving economic and cultural development in Zimbabwe. The regional and international performances featured in this festival resonate with our inclusivity mantra, celebrating the diversity and unity of our continent,” Mahatchi added.

Due to the anticipated large attendance and the need for more space for service vendors, the festival has moved from Old Hararians to Thornpark Polo Club. Mr. Wanyanya expressed pride in the growth of the festival’s team over the years, which has enabled individuals to collaborate and flourish within the industry. Unlike other festivals that select acts based on popularity or genre, the Stanbic Jacaranda Festival carefully curates performances that complement each other and appeal to a diverse audience. Ngoma Nehosho, the organizing team, is also responsible for other events such as Carpe Diem, Flame Lily, Jabulani Jazz Festival, and the Rock Music Festival, which may take place in various parts of the country.

“We commend Stanbic Bank for providing a platform for industry professionals, artists, and aspiring musicians to engage in panels, workshops, and networking opportunities through the two-day music business conference,” said Wanyanya.

This year’s lineup includes Cassper Nyovest, Dladla Thukzin, ACE FRVR, Felo Le Tee, James Sakala, Nutty O, Freeman & HKD Band, Backtrack Vocals, Feli Nandi, Rax The DJ, Travellers Band, St. Emmo, Aga Nyabinde, Skyroot, Sylent Nqo, Mokoomba, Reverb 7, Idoipe-Cuervo Lento, Scripts & Bars, MICASA, Master H, Shaku Chante, Nomfuzi, DJ Spunj, Daniel Deuschle’s Expressions, Sylent Nqo, Mary Anibal, and Mbeu. Two more acts are yet to be announced. Attendees are strongly advised to arrive on time to avoid missing their favorite performances.