Cultural Workshops
Hands-on drumming and arts sessions that connect people across cultures.
Community Events
Festivals and gatherings that promote unity through creative expression.
Arts Advocacy
Shifting narratives about Zimbabwe through rhythm, pride, and storytelling.
About us
Rooted in rhythm and tradition, Drums of Peace unites communities and cultures through the transformative power of the arts.
It all started with a single kids workshop in 1996 and the arts relationship continued – carrying a hope that “One Day Something Great will Happen”
Drums of Peace was founded in 2009 for the purpose of nurturing and developing the artistic talents inherent in the peoples of Zimbabwe for the purposes of training and
educating adults and children through the use of drumming and the arts to improve their lives, build a sense of community and social structure for the individual and to empower musicians and artists through increasing their sustainable financial resources, self worth, respect of
family, and employment opportunities.
Kholisa!
“Kholisa” is a Zulu word meaning “enjoy” or “take delight.”
As a motto for Drums of Peace, Kholisa speaks to more than just fun it’s an invitation to feel joy through rhythm, to connect with your spirit, and to celebrate culture with open arms. Whether it’s a child discovering their first beat or a community moving in sync, Kholisa reminds us that healing, harmony, and unity begin with joy.
A few things we’re great at
From drumming workshops to cultural performances, we make every beat count.
Empowering Artists
Through hands-on workshops, we equip musicians and creatives with leadership skills and cultural wisdom preparing them to become ambassadors for unity and positive change.
Community Service Outreach
Our drumming programs in schools, orphanages, and youth centers foster connection, confidence, and purpose helping participants discover their voice and value.
Cultural Visibility & Change
From sports stadiums to national events, our performances spark pride and awareness redefining how Zimbabwe is seen and celebrated, both at home and abroad.
OUR MAJOR PROJECTS
Santa Comes to Makokoba
Santa Comes to Makokoba is a heartfelt, non-profit initiative by Drums of Peace, registered with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe. Launched in 2017 as a simple Christmas party for 40 underprivileged children, the programme has since grown into a broader community support effort. It now reaches over 300 children, including those with disabilities, providing joy, care, and opportunities for growth in Makokoba and surrounding communities.
The programme’s core mission is to give back to the community whenever donations and sponsorships are available, offering support to disadvantaged children, particularly those participating in Drums of Peace activities at Thabiso Youth Centre. Over the years, the initiative has continued operations even during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic, partnering with well-wishers and local supporters to ensure families and children remain supported.
Programme Highlights:
2017: Launched with a Christmas party for 40 children.
2018–2019: Expanded to support up to 60 children annually.
Ongoing: Provides continuous support, benefiting over 300 children to date, including children with disabilities and elderly community members.
The programme also focuses on holistic development, providing a safe and nurturing environment that shields children from abuse and neglect, while fostering self-esteem, confidence, and resilience. Children gain access to educational and artistic opportunities, empowering them with skills, knowledge, and personal growth. Beyond the children themselves, the programme actively engages local communities, raising awareness about the challenges faced by vulnerable children and promoting collective action to support their well-being.
Through Santa Comes to Makokoba, Drums of Peace continues to transform lives, taking children off the streets and into safe, creative, and empowering spaces. By combining cultural expression, mentorship, and community care, the programme inspires hope, joy, and opportunity for the youth of Makokoba.
Marvelous Makokoba Tour
Makokoba is Bulawayo’s oldest high density suburb, bursting with colourful life mingled with a deep history. This unique walking tour, run in collaboration with Drums of Peace, takes the visitor into the heart of this fascinating suburb, combining culture, history and daily life. Explore the local markets, indulge in traditional food and drink and experience a simulating and interactive drumming session. Part proceeds from the tour are used to assist with the refurbishment and redevelopment of the Thabiso Youth Centre.
Tour Details:
Min 3, Max 10 people.
Single Travellers please do ask about joining a group departure or arranging your own personalised tour.
Tour lasts approx 2 to 3 hours of walking with rest stops along the way (but this is flexible).
Casual dress recommended; no high-heels or flip-flops allowed. Hats and sunscreen recommended.
No large cameras or wads of cash allowed.
Some refreshments including drinking water, soft drinks and a light snack (African traditional) will be provided.
EXPERIENCE & HIGHLIGHTS
Bulawayo Dance Expo (BuDE): Celebrating Women in the Arts
Uniting drummers, musicians, visual artists, and cultural influencers to showcase creativity, amplify women’s voices, and inspire future generations of dancers and musicians.
Spearheaded by Drums of Peace and Ulemu Arts, BuDE is bringing together a dynamic community of women—drummers, visual artists, acoustic performers, and cultural influencers—to co-create a unified artistic experience.
This year, the Expo is centering the theme “Celebrating Sisters in Arts: Future Dancers and Musicians,” and is inviting 30 women across creative sectors to showcase their voices, rhythms, and stories at Thabiso Youth Centre. As visual artists sketch live performances and musicians blend mbira, drums, and voice, BuDE is amplifying the visibility of women in the arts while nurturing unity through cultural expression.
Why Choose Us
At Drums of Peace, we are more than just a cultural organization we are a community driven movement that empowers individuals through the arts. By combining traditional drumming, dance, and theatre with innovative educational programs, we create meaningful experiences that inspire creativity, self-confidence, and personal growth.
Expertise
Decades of experience in performing arts, workshops, and community engagement.
Inclusivity
A welcoming environment where every participant feels valued and supported.
Cultural Preservation
Commitment to promoting Zimbabwean heritage and cross-cultural understanding.
PERFORMANCE & WORSHOPS
Bringing Rhythm and Culture to Every Occasion
Festivals
Bringing vibrant drumming, dance, and cultural performances to local and national festivals.
THEATRES
Showcasing theatrical and musical talent on professional stages for diverse audiences.
Lobola
Creating memorable cultural experiences for traditional ceremonies and celebrations.
Weddings
Adding rhythm, dance, and entertainment to make weddings lively and unforgettable.
Our Work in Action
At Drums of Peace, we run innovative and impactful projects that engage communities, celebrate culture, and empower youth through the arts. Our projects are designed to provide learning opportunities, showcase talent, and foster social cohesion.
Empowering Communities Through the Rhythm of Culture
Discover the transformative power of drumming, dance, and the arts. Join us in celebrating Zimbabwean heritage, nurturing talent, and building vibrant communities.
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