Zimbabwe: Saintfloew, Voltz JT to Headline Shoko Festival Mash Up Night

What the report says

Zimbabwean hip-hop artists Saintfloew and Voltz JT will headline Shoko Festival’s Mash Up Night at Harare Gardens on 25 September, according to a 263Chat report distributed by AllAfrica. The event is part of the 16th edition of Shoko Festival, which is organised by Magamba Network and focuses on alternative youth culture, creative expression and freedom of expression.

The lineup also includes Mugaratia, Xiba, Bulawayo-based artist Bhila and DJ MadeHerBelieve. Organisers said the night is intended to highlight the range of Zimbabwean hip-hop, while the performers will be supported by a full live band. The festival will also include the third Mashoko Tapes residency, where selected artists collaborate on an original album scheduled for release before the event.

The report says Saintfloew will make his first appearance at the festival, while Voltz JT returns after a prior performance. It also notes that Mugaratia is coming back after appearing in the 2024 edition in Chitungwiza, and Xiba will make her debut. Bhila is expected to bring a blend of Afro-soul and Mbaqanga influences.

The announcement matters because Shoko Festival is a visible platform for Zimbabwe’s urban music scene and a meeting point for established and emerging acts. More broadly, the festival has long been associated with youth-led cultural expression in Zimbabwe.