By Simbarashe Sithole in Bindura
Thousands of people flocked to Mandizha Plaza in Bindura on Saturday as the entertainment venue marked its first anniversary with a colourful music extravaganza that brought together some of the country’s popular musicians.
The celebrations, held under the banner Bindura Shutdown, featured performances by the King of Rhumba Juntal, Andy Muridzo, Tocky Vibes and Jah Master, among others.
The anniversary celebration was not only a milestone for the business but also highlighted the growing role of Mandizha Plaza as an entertainment and community hub in Chikadzi Village, Bindura.
Speaking to this publication on the sidelines of the celebrations, United Kingdom based Plaza owner Tafadzwa Mandizha said he was pleased with the growth of the business and its contribution to employment in the community.
“We are very happy with our business here in Chikadzi Village, Bindura, as we have doubled our employees since last year,” Mandizha said.
He said the growth of the business was part of his efforts to contribute to the development of his home community in line with the Government’s development philosophy, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”
“As Mandizha, we are following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision of development, ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’. As a local from Bindura, I am adding value to my community,” he said.
Since opening, the plaza has increasingly become a destination for live entertainment, hosting several major music events that have attracted people from Bindura and surrounding communities.
Sunday’s celebration was reportedly the third major music event hosted at the venue since its establishment. Previous performers have included Sulumani Chimbetu, Leonard Zhakata, Jah Signal and DJ Phatchild, among others.
For many residents, the concerts have provided an opportunity to watch popular Zimbabwean musicians in their own community, with several of the events being offered free of charge.
The growing popularity of the venue has also provided a platform for entertainment while contributing to economic activity and employment within the local community.
Beyond entertainment and business, Mandizha has also built a reputation for supporting community and charitable initiatives.
He has, among other initiatives, provided buses for Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) congregations travelling to Masvingo for the church’s annual Rufaro celebrations.
Mandizha is also supporting a number of underprivileged children in his area by paying their school fees, extending his contribution beyond the commercial activities of his business.
The first anniversary celebrations therefore offered more than a day of music and entertainment. They served as a reflection of the plaza’s first year as a growing business, an employer and a community-oriented initiative seeking to create opportunities for people in Bindura.
As Mandizha Plaza enters its second year, its growing profile in the local entertainment sector, together with its employment and charitable initiatives, is positioning the venue as an increasingly important part of the community.