News & Updates

Save the Date: Gezani Day 2027 Set for 25 June

Following a well-attended 2026 commemoration, the next Gezani Day has been set for Friday, 25 June 2027 at the Chief Gezani Court Hall.

Planning committees will begin work in the coming months on the tournament, the dance programme and the exhibitions. The community, the diaspora, government stakeholders and our corporate partners are all invited — and sponsors who wish to support the day are welcome to make contact early.

Call for Partners: A Vocational Training Centre for Ward 13

Gezani youths have come to realise that they can use their skills and their rich heritage to earn a livelihood. Some now work a variety of indigenous trees into artifacts that range from office displays to household items.

Building on that, the community is seeking development partners to help establish and construct a Vocational Training Centre in Ward 13. The objectives are to equip young people with marketable skills — carpentry, welding, computer literacy, tailoring and agriculture; to reduce youth unemployment and the rampant illegal crossing into neighbouring South Africa; and to support community self-reliance and economic development in line with Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1.

Xibhelana Dance Lights Up Gezani Day 2026

The 2026 edition of the Gezani Day Xibhelana dance drew dancers of every age. The pleated skirts, the stamping and the drums held the arena for much of the afternoon, before a crowd seated many rows deep on every side.

What keeps the dance a living tradition rather than a display is that it is handed down: the youngest children stood at the edge of the circle clapping the rhythm while their elders danced, and visiting guests were pulled in to join rather than merely watch. It remains the clearest expression of our Xangani heritage.

Dhafi Primary Lift the Gezani Tournament Cup

Dhafi Primary School were crowned winners of the Gezani Tournament. At the prize-giving, Mr Maluleke handed the cup over to the victorious soccer team, alongside boxes of prizes distributed to the participating schools.

The schools tournament is one of the most keenly followed parts of Gezani Day, and it continues to grow — Bondela School entered the competition for the first time this year, while Dhafi arrived as reigning champions and left with the cup again.

Hardwood Artifacts — and a Belt That Bends

One of the day's most striking exhibitions was a table of artifacts, all worked from locally available hardwood by Gezani carvers: scorpions, men's trouser belts, caps, plates, the coat of arms, the Zimbabwe bird and fish. The pieces range from office display items to things used every day at home.

The piece that drew the most attention was the wooden flexible belt — cut from hardwood, yet worked so finely that it bends around the waist like leather. Some youths now use a variety of indigenous trees this way, turning a rich heritage into a livelihood.

Food Handouts for the Elderly and the Disabled

Alongside the dancing and the sport, Gezani Day 2026 carried a philanthropic programme. Food handouts — including 10kg bags of roller meal — were issued to elderly community members and to people living with disabilities.

The initiative was organised and funded by Gezani people to assist fellow Gezani people. It is the community's own answer to a hard season, and self-reliance put into practice rather than only spoken about.

Music, Performance and the Chief's Address

The musician Gazora performed at the Gezani Day 2026 event, part of a programme of music and performance that kept the arena full from morning until late afternoon.

Chief Gezani, the patron of the community, addressed the gathering. His stated aim is to empower Gezani people to build a resilient and prosperous future, emphasising the sustainable use of locally available resources so that they still benefit future generations.

Lumpy Skin Disease Affecting Cattle

Farmers are advised to be on high alert regarding Lumpy Skin Disease currently affecting cattle in the region. Please consult local veterinary services for immediate vaccination and isolation protocols.

Food Security Concerns After Heavy Rains

Following heavy rains in January and March, many farmers have faced crop losses and grain germinating before and after harvest. Community leaders are organizing food aid for affected families.

Responsible Mining Engagement Guidelines

The Mateke Community Development Trust (MCDT) has updated its guidelines for mining companies. All prospective miners must engage local leadership regarding environmental impact and community share benefits.

Bondela School Joins Gezani Day Tournament

Exciting news for the upcoming Gezani Day Schools Tournament as Bondela School officially joins the competition for the first time. The reigning champions, Dhafi School, are preparing to defend their title.