Speaking at the Imiklomelo ka Dakamela 2026 Cultural Festival in Nkayi on Saturday, Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya praised the traditional leader for creating a platform that celebrates cultural excellence while fostering regional unity. Jesaya said Chief Dakamela’s initiatives had positioned Nkayi as a hub for cultural diplomacy, drawing representatives from different kingdoms across Southern Africa. She said the government had partnered with the chief to support efforts to revive and safeguard cultural practices at risk of being lost.
The deputy minister said culture plays a critical role in national development, describing it as a driver of social cohesion, economic opportunity and inclusive growth. She added that initiatives such as the Imiklomelo ka Dakamela Cultural Festival contribute to the country’s broader goal of attaining upper middle-income status by 2030. Jesaya also stressed the importance of cultural exchange, saying interaction among different cultural groups at the festival would enhance mutual understanding and strengthen regional ties.
She called on communities across Zimbabwe to safeguard their cultural heritage and urged stakeholders, including private sector players and institutions, to invest in cultural programmes and infrastructure. Addressing young people in Nkayi, Jesaya encouraged them to draw inspiration from those honoured at the festival and to pursue excellence with discipline and integrity.
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