The Herts Showground in St Albans vibrated with the rhythms of Zimbabwean pride this past Saturday, July 26th, for ZimFest UK 2025. While the festival itself was a dazzling spectacle of music, art, and culture, it was a deeply poignant moment from the “Gaffa,” Winky D, that truly etched this year’s event into the hearts of attendees.
As a seasoned observer of the entertainment landscape, I’ve witnessed countless performances, but Winky D’s set on the Zimfest Stage was remarkable not just for its electrifying energy, but for its profound emotional core. Clocking in at an impressive 59 minutes and 41 seconds, his full performance was a masterclass in stage presence and audience connection. Yet, what made the show particularly poignant and undeniably the key highlight was his sincere and moving tribute to the victims of the Chitungwiza accidents. This heartfelt gesture deepened the emotional connection between the artist and the Zimbabwean community present, transforming a high-energy concert into a moment of shared reflection and solidarity.
Winky D delivered a well-curated setlist blending fan favorites and newer hits, demonstrating his mastery of Zimdancehall and cultural storytelling. It was a dynamic journey through his popular discography, with seamless transitions and infectious energy. Fans were treated to key crowd-pleasers such as “Propaganda,” “Iyeye,” “Gaffa Futi,” “Superstar,” and “Happy Again.” His versatility shone through as he balanced high-energy dancehall rhythms with moments of heartfelt social commentary, including tracks like “Siya,” “Machikichori,” “Ngoma Futi,” “Bhoo Yangu,” and “Finhu Finhu,” creating a rich and varied musical experience infused with pride and cultural resonance. The entire experience was both an exhilarating spectacle and a deeply emotional journey.
Beyond Winky D’s impactful set, ZimFest UK 2025 was a testament to the rich tapestry of African talent. The festival truly offered something for everyone across its two dynamic stages:
On the Zimfest Stage, alongside Winky D, the audience was treated to phenomenal acts like Saintfloew, the soulful Oriyano, the captivating Nisha TS (making her much-anticipated first UK performance), and the ever-popular Jah Signal. This lineup ensured a constant flow of diverse Zimbabwean sounds, from Zimdancehall to Afro-fusion.
Meanwhile, the Amapiano Stage, powered by @pianorepublik, was a non-stop dance party, spearheaded by South African heavyweights DJ Maphorisa and Young Stunna. Their sets delivered the infectious rhythms and deep house vibes that have taken the continent, and indeed the world, by storm.
The atmosphere throughout the day was nothing short of electric. ZimFest UK 2025 truly lived up to its promise of being a significant reunion for the Zimbabwean diaspora, fostering a high-energy fusion of live music, dance, and cross-continental performances. The air was thick with pride, joy, and the aroma of authentic Zimbabwean cuisine from the various food stalls.
Such a grand celebration would not be possible without the visionary support of its sponsors, whose commitment reflects the growing significance of this festival as a commercial and cultural hub. Major international sponsors included World Remit, Remitly, Ecocash, and Mukuru, alongside key partners like Nyaradzo Life Insurance, Diaspora Insurance, Ngoto, Masau Gin, Wiremit, Home Link, Clear Mobitel Connect, My Hippo Store, Kumusha, and Hello Paisa. Their continued backing is crucial in bringing such a vital event to fruition.
In sum, ZimFest UK 2025 was a resounding success. Winky D’s ability to command the stage with a powerful mix of dancefloor anthems and socially conscious messages, notably his profound tribute, solidified his position as the festival’s standout headliner. This vibrant, well-executed festival not only entertained but also solidified a sense of shared identity and heritage, demonstrating that the future of Zimbabwean cultural events in the diaspora looks incredibly bright.
