The air is thick with anticipation as the Chibuku Road to Fame competition barrels toward its national grand finale, with fresh victors emerging from Mashonaland East, Manicaland, and Masvingo. This year’s contest, marking a major milestone with its 25th anniversary, has witnessed a surge in Afro-fusion acts, though more traditional genres have proven that they are still very much alive and commanding respect.
In Mashonaland East, the Wedza-based Jungle Foxes rose above a pool of ten talented acts to claim the provincial crown. Their mastery of Sungura struck the right chord with the judges, securing first place ahead of Groove Fusion from Goromonzi and the Tapi Tapi Boys from Marondera, who finished second and third respectively. The result highlighted how traditional genres remain formidable contenders even in a rapidly evolving music scene.
Manicaland brought an upset that few anticipated, with Mnenga Band clinching the top spot in a show of Afro-fusion’s growing dominance. Their performance captivated audiences and judges alike, edging out Watsomba Stars, a Sungura outfit that settled for second place, while the traditional ASG Band took third. The victory underscored the national trend: Afro-fusion is no longer an underdog but a movement reshaping Zimbabwe’s musical identity.
Masvingo added further momentum to the genre’s rise as Afro Pulse stormed into first place. They were trailed closely by Afro Beatz in second, while the Doctors Band, who fused Rhumba with Afro-fusion, secured third. The sweep signaled Afro-fusion’s commanding presence across provinces and its mounting influence in the competition.
These new champions now join a vibrant lineup of eight finalists who will battle it out at the national grand finale on October 4, 2025. Alongside the provincial winners are seasoned Afro-fusion names such as Simuniziva, Core Vibes, All in One, and Da Band. Adding to the diversity is Bolamba Culture Birds of Matabeleland South, who will bring their distinctive traditional contemporary sound to the stage.
As the countdown to the finale begins, all eyes are on whether the Afro-fusion genre will maintain its winning streak on the national stage. With 25 years of unearthing raw talent and shaping careers, Chibuku Road to Fame is a competition that is a celebration of Zimbabwe’s evolving soundscape of frienships, where legacy meets innovation and the next big stars are born.
