Zimdancehall heavyweight Wallace Chirumiko, popularly known as Winky D, is set to make history at the Castle Lager Braai Day Festival, cementing his position as the event’s most regular headline performer.
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Read E-PaperThe award-winning musician, affectionately known as Gafa, is expected to headline the annual festival for the sixth time when it returns to Glamis Arena next week, further strengthening his association with one of Zimbabwe’s biggest entertainment events.
Winky D has headlined the festival in 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, making him a central figure in the event’s evolution as it enters its 11th edition.
His repeated appearances reflect his enduring popularity and ability to draw large crowds, with his energetic stage performances making him one of the most anticipated acts on the festival’s line-up.
The musician’s continued presence at the event also highlights the commercial appeal of established local stars, as organisers seek to maintain audience interest and deliver performances that resonate with Zimbabwean music fans.
This year, Winky D will share the stage with urban grooves veteran Ex Q and Zimdancehall performer Enzo Ishall. They will be joined by Jnr Spragga, Atenda Chinx and DJ Loz in a line-up that brings together established musicians and emerging talent.
In a statement, festival organisers said the selection reflects Castle Lager’s commitment to promoting Zimbabwean music and providing a platform for local artistes.
The organisers also announced nationwide promotional activities ahead of the main event, with consumers set to participate in activations at popular braai venues.
“Event tickets, chilled Castle Lager and a range of other prizes will be available to be won as excitement builds towards the main event,” the statement said.
The latest edition continues a shift towards a predominantly local line-up, following the absence of South African performers from the past two editions.
South African acts have previously featured prominently at the festival. Amapiano dancer and performer Kamo Mphela appeared at the 2024 edition, while DJ Tira and Heavy K performed in 2025.
The decision to focus on Zimbabwean artistes places the spotlight firmly on the country’s music industry, although it also marks a departure from previous editions that incorporated regional performers.
For Winky D, the upcoming performance offers another opportunity to reinforce his standing in Zimbabwean popular music while extending a remarkable run at an event that has become a fixture on the country’s entertainment calendar.
Tickets for the festival have been pegged at US$15.
As anticipation builds towards the Glamis Arena gathering, the spotlight will once again fall on Gafa, whose repeated headline appearances have made him synonymous with the Castle Lager Braai Day Festival.
