BY SUE NYIRENDA
What began as a women-centred entertainment concept in 2019, has grown into an annual lifestyle festival built around music, friendship and sisterhood, with Girlfest Zimbabwe preparing for its latest edition in Harare on September 19.
The festival returns to Old Hararians Sports Club, under the “Rosa Riviera” theme, continuing its positioning as a space created by women for women.
While the event is anchored by a strong entertainment programme, the organisers have consistently presented Girlfest above just a concert.
The festival’s stated purpose includes creating a space where women can unwind, enjoy good food and music, meet new people, network and celebrate their individuality.
This year’s programme brings together musicians, DJs, food outlets and media personalities, reflecting the festival’s broader lifestyle approach.
The host will be KVG, while Takura, Saintfloew, Enzo Ishall and Atenda Chinx are scheduled to perform, and MadeHerBelieve, Samuel Cosmic and KingHer will provide DJ sets.
Girlfest is a women-only, women-organised event that has been held annually since 2019, with the objective of providing a relaxed and supportive environment for women to socialise and enjoy themselves.
That positioning has become increasingly significant in Zimbabwe’s entertainment landscape, where women are not only consumers of cultural events but are also playing a growing role as event organisers, artists, DJs, entrepreneurs, content creators and fashion influencers.
Girlfest provides a platform that brings many of those interests together in one setting.
The festival’s social media messaging has continued to emphasise friendship and sisterhood, encouraging women to attend with their friends and experience the event collectively.
The 2026 edition also introduces a new visual identity through the Rosa Riviera concept, drawing inspiration from the French Riviera and its association with summer, colour, leisure and feminine freedom.
Entertainment will be complemented by a food village featuring outlets including RocoMamas, Chicken Hut, Jollof Junxion, Subs & Mo, Chicken Basket, Leekays Kitchen and Chicken House.
Brutal Fruit returns as a festival partner, while Star FM is expected to broadcast from the venue.
The event is scheduled to begin with gates opening at noon on September 19, with current ticket listings showing general admission from US$15 and VIP tickets between US$60 and US$80.
As preparations enter their final stages, Girlfest is once again seeking to demonstrate that women-centred entertainment can create more than a night of music.
For its organisers and loyal audience, the festival has become a recurring meeting point where women can celebrate friendship, fashion, creativity and the freedom to simply enjoy themselves together.
