Zimbabwe’s Shoko Festival Brings Regional Innovators to Harare for Digital Media and Civic Tech Advancement

The 10th edition of the Hub UnConference, a prominent event focusing on digital media, civic technology, and the creative economy, will take place in Harare from September 24 to 25. This conference is an integral part of Zimbabwe’s urban culture showcase, the Shoko Festival. The theme for this year’s event is "Level Up," which encourages young people to stay current with emerging trends and technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Hub UnConference is known for bringing together media practitioners, young innovators, and creative professionals to discuss the intersection of technology and their respective fields. This year’s gathering will feature an impressive lineup of keynote speakers from across Africa, including:

A renowned Kenyan comic who is expected to bring a unique perspective on digital media and its role in entertainment. A celebrated Senegalese musician known for his activism through music. -Millie Phiri: An influential figure from South Africa whose work spans the realms of art and technology. Antonio Kisemboi:A Ugandan expert with insights into technology’s impact on civic engagement. Steve Horn: Another key South African speaker, contributing to discussions on the creative economy. Nkosinathi Mcetywa: An African tech advocate and influencer. Professor Nehemiah Chivandikwa: A Zimbabwean academic who will provide valuable insights into the use of technology in education and research.

Takudzwa Masakasa, the Hub UnConference coordinator, highlighted the event’s commitment to exploring how digital media can elevate the voices of marginalized communities. This year’s focus will be on how technology can address global issues such as misinformation, environmental crises, and conflicts. The conference will examine how digital media, civic technology, and artistic activism can be harnessed to create impactful solutions and foster dialogue that benefits youth, women, and other marginalized groups.

In addition to the main conference, the event will feature the Open Africa Data Summit, which will bring together some of the brightest minds from across the continent. This summit will delve into the crucial role of data in promoting governance, transparency, and civic engagement.

The Hub UnConference has previously hosted notable figures like Lindiwe Zulu, a prominent member of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC). This year’s event is set to continue the tradition of engaging discussions and high-profile speakers.

Following the Hub UnConference, the Shoko Festival will continue the celebration of Zimbabwe’s vibrant urban culture from September 26 to 28. This annual festival, which spans Harare and Chitungwiza, is a dynamic showcase of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary arts scene. The festival will feature an eclectic mix of activities, including live music performances, dance showcases, art exhibitions, and interactive workshops.

Attendees can expect to experience a diverse range of artistic expressions, from traditional Zimbabwean music and dance to cutting-edge contemporary art. The festival serves as a platform for both established and emerging artists, providing opportunities for local talent to gain exposure and engage with audiences.

In addition to artistic performances, the Shoko Festival will also include panels and discussions on various cultural and social topics, reinforcing its role as a hub for creative exchange and community engagement. The festival aims to foster a deeper appreciation for Zimbabwe’s cultural contributions while also celebrating the innovative spirit of its artists and creators. Through its vibrant programming and community involvement, the Shoko Festival continues to be a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape.