By Bybit Chigumbura

More plaudits continue to pour for record breaking film producer and director Moses Matanda whose blockbuster film Chinhoyi 7 recently scooped four awards at the Rivers International Film Festival in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

The festival which also saw President Mnangagwa being awarded the Global, Socio-Cultural President of the year gong, saw the veteran cinema guru Matanda’s film which he did in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Defence Forces taking home the Best story, editing, international film as well as best producer for his part.

International film critique Professor Femi Okiremuette of SHAKA University in Port Harcourt River State described Chinhoyi 7 as the actual rendition of the true African story which reminds the imperialists that although the continent has managed to forgive and move on, it cannot forget its colonial bondage past.

“Chinhoyi Seven is an award-winning movie anywhere, anytime and I was not surprised that Canadian Funding Agencies refused to fund the production, I actually would have been surprised if they had opted to finance it because it best describes how their forefathers ill-treated us, the Africans, “ he said.

The soft spoken Matanda who has had a stint in the Canadian and American film industry said beyond the economic impact, the film industry is a conduit for creative innovation.

“The fusion of different cultural perspectives leads to innovative story telling and access to a global talent pool enriches the creative process”, he said.

Matanda said coupled with President Mnangagwa’s award at the festival, the moment honours the country’s heritage.

Zimbabwe’s representative, Lyshanda Moyas, has officially kicked off her journey at the 74th Miss Universe Pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, joining over 100 contestants from across the globe in the race for the prestigious crown.

According to a statement released by the Miss Universe Organisation on Monday, the Thai capital has been transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, fashion, and international camaraderie as delegates settle in and begin preparations for the competition.

The initial days of the pageant have been packed with registration, fittings, and official photo sessions, offering contestants a chance to showcase their individuality while immersing themselves in Bangkok’s rich traditions. The organisers described the city as a “melting pot of talent and culture,” underscoring the global significance of the event beyond its beauty pageant roots.

This year, the Miss Universe competition carries the theme, “The Power of Love,” which the organisers say reflects the event’s broader mission of celebrating not only physical beauty but also values such as unity, compassion, and the strength found in diversity.

Zimbabwe’s participation marks a continuation of the country’s presence on the international pageant stage, with Moyas set to represent her nation’s culture, values, and aspirations in a contest watched by millions worldwide. The weeks ahead will see contestants engage in interviews, preliminary competitions, and cultural showcases leading up to the grand finale, where one will be crowned Miss Universe.

With a global audience keenly observing every step of the journey, Moyas’ performance in Bangkok will be closely followed at home, as Zimbabwean fans rally behind their representative in a pageant that blends glamour, diplomacy, and cultural representation.

The Heritage Village in Harare is expected to burst into life this Saturday evening as Zimbabwe hosts the highly anticipated Anti-Sanctions Music Gala, a major highlight of the 2025 SADC Anti-Sanctions Day commemorations.

The star studded event will feature some of the country’s top musical talents, with performances lined up from Andy Muridzo, Agatha Murudzwa, Chief Hwenje, Shantel Sithole, Sasha Madube, Cello Culture, Jah Master, Clemence Magwaza, Jah Signal, Simon Mutambi, Sandra Ndebele, Cynthia Mare, Iyasa, Khonan’ale, the ZRP Band, and the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, among others.

This year’s commemorations run under the theme: “Inclusive Development through Heritage-based Innovation and Industrialisation, in a Multilateral World.” The gala is expected to draw thousands of Zimbabweans from across the country, with organisers saying the event aims to celebrate national resilience and unity in the face of enduring economic challenges.

Since 2001, Zimbabwe has been under what the government describes as illegal economic sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, among others. Authorities maintain that these restrictive measures have had far reaching effects on the economy, contributing to hardships for ordinary citizens.

In solidarity with Zimbabwe, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) declared October 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day in 2019, urging regional and international partners to support the call for the unconditional removal of sanctions.

Government officials say this year’s commemorations will not only focus on denouncing sanctions but also on promoting innovation, industrialisation, and cultural pride as key drivers for inclusive national development.

The musical gala is set to blend political significance with cultural celebration, offering both entertainment and reflection on the country’s two-decade-long push against economic restrictions.

As preparations gather momentum, excitement continues to build among fans eager to witness a night of music, dance, and solidarity at one of Harare’s most vibrant cultural venues.