HARARE – Zimbabwe’s longest-running festival of urban culture, Shoko Festival, has announced the return of Shoko Comedy Night, set to take place on 24 September 2026 at Harare Gardens.
The highly anticipated comedy showcase, which has become Shoko Festival’s crown jewel, will this year be headlined by Nigel Maritinyu, popularly known as Nigel Tha Slick Pastor.
In line with this year’s Shoko Festival’s theme, Unmuted, a celebration of artistic creativity and free expression, Nigel Tha Slick Pastor is expected to light up Comedy Night with his unique blend of humour.
Interestingly, the event will arrive just as the comedian wraps up a tour of the United Kingdom, presenting a perfect homecoming for the comedian.
“I am so excited to be this year’s headliner at Shoko, such a big festival and prestigious stage. This will also be my first time performing live in Harare this year so all my fans can look forward to a very special experience and memorable night. There is absolutely no reason to miss out on this, I urge everyone to come through and have a good time,” shared Nigel.
South Africa’s Vafa Naraghi will be joining Nigel on stage, making it 2 years running that Shoko Comedy Night has had a continental perspective. The 3 time Comics Choice Award winner will be bringing his blend of sharp observational humour and heartfelt storytelling that has made him a household name down south.
Joining Nigel and Vafa on stage will be two of the New School Comedy Club’s brightest talents in the irreverent Chipenzi and the hilarious Neville The Entertainer, alongside actress and comic Magi, who has prominently featured on Bustop TV.
“This year’s line-up for the Shoko Comedy Night 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,” stated Festival Co-ordinator Natasha Sipanera.
The brainchild of Magamba Network, Africa’s trailblazing creative and digital media organisation, Shoko Festival is set for its 16th edition.
Tickets for Shoko Comedy Night are priced at US$15 for Early Bird (US$20 at the gate) and can be purchased online via the Shoko Festival website or in person from the Moto Republik offices, situated at 3 Allan Wilson Avenue, Harare.
