Africa-Press – Tanzania. MWANZA is set to host the Chief Hangaya Cultural Festival on April 19 and 20 at the Furahisha Grounds in Mwanza. The event is expected to draw more than 10,000 participants.
The two-day festival, organised by Cheza Kidansi Entertainment, aims to promote cultural heritage, tourism and local enterprise in the Lake Zone.
According to Festival Coordinator Bernard James, this year’s edition is expected to double last year’s attendance, which was around 5,000.
The programme will feature a wide range of traditional activities, including indigenous games, short-distance races, acrobatics and dance competitions representing various ethnic groups.
Organisers have also planned exhibitions of traditional attire and cultural performances celebrating the diversity of communities across the country. James said the festival would provide an open platform for both the public and stakeholders, noting that entry would be free of charge.
He encouraged residents and visitors alike to attend in large numbers. Businesses, sponsors and entrepreneurs have also been invited to take part, with opportunities to showcase products and services to a large audience expected at the venue.
“This festival is not just about entertainment; it is a strategic platform to promote Mwanza as a centre for cultural tourism and to create economic opportunities for local communities,” Mr James said.
Organisers say the Chief Hangaya Cultural Festival is steadily establishing itself as a key cultural event in the Lake Zone, bringing together elements of tradition, tourism and grassroots economic activity.
