Shoko Festival 2026 — Nigel the Slick Pastor, Nisha Ts lead star-studded line-up
Zimbabwe’s Shoko Festival has returned for its 16th edition with a packed programme of music, comedy and digital conversations.
The festival runs from September 23 to 26 across venues in Harare and Chitungwiza.
This year’s edition carries the theme “Unmuted” and highlights Zimbabwean creativity alongside regional and international talent.
The celebrations began on Wednesday with a Sofar Sounds pop-up at Harare Gardens.
Cingi, Vicky Soulful, Bhanshee and Kuda Rice performed during the opening event.
The festival moves into its comedy programme tonight at Harare Gardens.
Zimbabwean comedian Nigel Maritinyu, better known as Nigel the Slick Pastor, leads the comedy line-up.
South African comedian Vafa Naraghi will also make his Shoko Festival debut.
Meanwhile, Neville Nyoni, popularly known as Neville Bird, will join the performers.
Glad Syre Chipenzi will also feature during the showcase.
Sharon Chideu, popularly known as Magi, will take charge as the host.
The entertainment continues on Thursday with Mash Up Night at Harare Gardens.
Saintfloew, Voltz JT, OneDa from the United Kingdom, Mugaratia and Xiba headline the music showcase.
Artists from the Mashoko Tapes platform will also take the stage.
The line-up includes Bhila, Supermuno, Millz Million, Easy Ice, Luigi Badgenna and Hooksmith.
Their appearance follows the release of Mashoko Tapes Volume 3.
Shoko Festival Coordinator Natasha Sipanera said the programme balances established names with emerging performers.
“This year’s edition lineup is a testament to Shoko Festival’s commitment to celebrating local stars and providing a platform to unheralded talent, in tandem with this year’s theme, Unmuted. Expect fireworks during the three-day event with Comedy Night, Mash Up Night and Peace In The Hood in Chitungwiza on Saturday.”
The festival concludes on September 26 with Peace In The Hood in Chitungwiza’s Unit L.
Nisha Ts, whose real name is Anisha Tashinga Shonhiwa, will headline the closing concert.
She will share the stage with Hwinza, Yadis, Tanto Wavie and Young Gemini.
The performance comes as Nisha Ts continues promoting her second album, Tsigamugobo.
She described her involvement as an important moment because of Shoko’s cultural focus.
“Shoko Festival is a very special platform for me because it celebrates Zimbabwean culture, creativity and the voices of young people. Being part of a festival that continues to bring people together through music and art is an honour. I’m looking forward to connecting with the audience, sharing my music and being part of another memorable Shoko experience.”
However, music and comedy are only part of this year’s festival programme.
The Hub Unconference runs from September 24 to 25 alongside the entertainment events.
It will explore digital media, civic technology and opportunities within Africa’s creative economy.
The programme includes panel discussions, masterclasses, debates, live podcasts and interactive creative showcases.
Speakers include Angela Kilisungu and Nkumi Mtingwa from Tanzania.
Antonio Kisembo and Samuel Eibu will represent Uganda during the discussions.
Malawi’s Willson Chivhanga will also participate alongside Zimbabwean speakers.
The Zimbabwean speakers include Darlington Chugumbu, Linda Mujuru and Joice Svitwa.
The conference will also feature the Green Cities Expo.
Discussions will examine clean energy and climate change across Africa.
Shoko Festival is a Magamba Network project.
Comedy Night tickets cost US$20 at the gate.
Meanwhile, tickets for Mash Up Night cost US$15. *_-iHarare_*
