HARARE — The Shoko Festival, Zimbabwe’s longest-running festival of urban culture, is set to celebrate its landmark 15th edition with a highly anticipated Comedy Night on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Harare Gardens. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable showcase of local and international comedic brilliance, headlined by the internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean comedian King Kandoro.
King Kandoro, whose real name is Mukudzei Majoni, has become a powerhouse in the Zimbabwean comedy scene. He made history by being the first Zimbabwean comedian to sell out Reps Theatre in 2019, a feat he surpassed by selling out 7 Arts Theatre with his “Prodigal Son Tour” in 2021. Most recently, in December 2024, he sold out the massive 3,500-seater Celebration Centre, adding an extra 400 seats to meet the overwhelming demand. His return to the Shoko Festival is a homecoming that fans have eagerly awaited, as he brings his internationally acclaimed tour back to his home country during his birthday month.
The 2025 Shoko Comedy Night lineup is a testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse and exceptional talent. Joining King Kandoro on stage is Kenya’s very own Justine Wanda. A satirist and creator of the satirical show “Fake Woke With Justine,” Wanda is known for her sharp social commentary and dark humor, tackling a wide range of topics from election misinformation to African macroeconomics. With an impressive touring history across the continent, her performance will add a unique, continental perspective to the night’s proceedings.
Zimbabwe’s comedic scene will be well-represented by some of its finest. Munyaradzi “Mike” Chipere will deliver his distinct blend of sharp wit and relatable storytelling, seamlessly mixing Shona, English, and street lingo. Also on the bill is the multi-talented performance artist Munya, known for her mischievous observations and biting satire. She brings a wealth of experience, having performed in countries like Eswatini, Kenya, and Vietnam. The Bulawayo-based comedian Mbongeni Ignatius Ndlovu, a 2023 Bulawayo Arts Award winner and 2025 NAMA nominee, will round out the comedic acts with his rib-cracking, theatrical style. Keeping the energy high between sets will be the award-winning DJ and entertainment personality, DJ Iroq.
Shoko Festival Director, Samm Farai Monro, popularly known as Comrade Fatso, emphasizes that the lineup reflects the festival’s long-standing legacy. “King Kandoro is an example of that legacy as he grew his comedy career through platforms created by Magamba TV and Shoko,” he said. “He returns triumphantly to Shoko as a headliner, and this shows our commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists in Zimbabwe who speak truth to power.”
This year’s Comedy Night highlights Shoko’s continuous mission to provide a platform for diverse voices and foster creative collaboration, cementing its place as Zimbabwe’s premier hub for urban culture and alternative art.
Tickets for this must-see event are now available. Advance tickets for Comedy Night are priced at $15 (vs. $20 at the gate), while Mash Up Nights tickets are $10 (vs. $15 at the door). You can purchase tickets online at flippintickets or at the Moto Republik box office located at 3 Allan Wilson Avenue, Harare.
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