Jamaican stars Christopher Martin and Busy Signal touched down in Zimbabwe this week ahead of the much-anticipated Kadoma Music Festival 2025, which takes place on 11 October at The Odyssey in Kadoma.
Their arrival has set the stage for what is expected to be one of the country’s biggest music events of the year.
The two headline acts, who have both performed in Zimbabwe before, were greeted by an excited crowd of fans at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Chris Martin expressed his joy at returning to the country, saying he considers Zimbabwe “like home” and promising fans “a powerful reggae experience”.
Busy Signal also urged revellers to arrive early on show day, promising an unforgettable night of live performances.
Joining them on the international line-up is US-based Zimbabwean singer Julian King, who returned home this week to be part of the festival.
He described performing in Zimbabwe as “a special moment” and pledged to deliver a lively set for local audiences.
Powerful line-up of local and international acts
This year’s Kadoma Music Festival features a dynamic mix of international and home-grown talent.
Alongside the Jamaican contingent, the stage will be lit up by some of Zimbabwe’s biggest stars, including Winky D, Freeman HKD, Alick Macheso, Feli Nandi and Kurai Makore.
The festival has become a major entertainment fixture on the national calendar, known for blending global acts with local talent.
Past editions have attracted massive crowds, and organisers expect this year’s turnout to be even larger.
Boost for tourism and the local economy
The festival is also expected to give a significant boost to tourism and the local economy.
With visitors travelling from across the country and neighbouring regions, hotels and lodges in Kadoma are already experiencing high demand.
Local businesses, including restaurants and transport operators, are preparing for an influx of customers during the festival weekend.
Speaking to 263Culture event organiser Tich Mharadze said this was going to be the biggest music event this year.
“If you miss the Kadoma Music Festival, you would have missed the biggest music event of the year,” said Mharadze.
“We have many people who are flying in from neighbouring countries just for this event, so we are expecting an exciting spectacle.
“Most of the hotels and lodges in the area are already fully booked, but we have also arranged tented accommodation for those who want to camp on site.”
Preperations are already at an advanced stage with organisers putting in the final touches to ensure that everything goes according to plan.
Festival excitement builds
With just a day to go, excitement is building among music lovers, especially after the arrival of Christopher Martin and Busy Signal.
Social media has been abuzz with multiple videos of the headliners conducting interviews at various radio stations as well as linking up with local artists.
The Kadoma Music Festival has evolved into more than just a concert — it is now a pivotal moment on Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar.
With international stars sharing the stage with some of the country’s most beloved artists, the event promises to be a celebration of music, culture and community.
