The cultural and social divide of Harare, and to a greater extent Zimbabwe, has often been viewed through the lens of which side of Samora Machel Avenue. The road has often been seen as dissecting the city of Harare into two sides, the haves and the have nots. This year Zimbabwe’s longest running festival of urban culture takes on the task of uniting the two sides of Harare’s urban culture, through their 2024 theme: Both Sides Of Samora.
Our theme #BothSidesOfSamora shines a light on the road that has historically separated different social classes. Different genres and cultures have often been divided by Samora Machel Avenue. #Shoko2024 will be happening on both sides of Samora – from the Avenues to Chitungwiza! We will be building a platform that showcases the bubbling urban culture from up town and downtown, from the suburbs to the hood!
Shoko Festival has long been the ultimate people’s party where everyone, from every background, tribe, or class, can come together and vibe out! Hosting both rising and established talent, the platform has invited international acts to show off their craft.
Set to be hosted from the 26th to the 28th of September this year, the festival is inviting creatives to be a part of this incredible showcase of Zimbabwe’s vibrant cultural scene. Applications are now open to be part of the magic that is Shoko Festival 2024, and the application deadline is midnight on the 31st May 2024.
Are you a wordsmith, a comedic genius, or a musical maestro? Do you have music with a message, art that challenges, or a voice for change? Then Shoko Festival is your platform and it craves your artistry. Showcase your talent – poets, comedians, musicians, dancers – all are welcome! From poetry slams to electrifying dance performances, Shoko embraces every form of artistic expression.
You can find the application form here.
