Maria Chiguvari, Zimpapers Arts & Entertainment Hub
THE organisers of Doek and Slay, Zimbabwe’s all-women party series, have redefined entertainment by consistently drawing record-breaking crowds, so much so that at their latest Harare edition, they couldn’t even keep count of attendees.
With last year’s event in the capital attracting over 23,000 women, Doek and Slay has evolved into the country’s largest musical showcase, expanding its reach across Zimbabwe and rapidly becoming a movement.
The Harare show featured standout performances from Iyasa, Feli Nandi and the trending InTotal Band, with dancehall superstar Winky D bringing the night to a thrilling close.
At the heart of Doek and Slay’s success lies more than just music, it’s about creating lasting impact. The organisers attribute their growth to careful planning, strategic partnerships and a strong focus on inclusivity.
Most importantly, they’ve created a rare, safe space where women can fully enjoy entertainment and express themselves freely, away from the male-dominated environments often seen at public events.
“This innovative concept was born from the realisation that many women feel unsafe or uncomfortable at mixed-gender events due to harassment and other risks,” said one organiser.
“Doek and Slay offers a sanctuary — a celebration of African culture, heritage, diversity, fashion, music and food in an environment where women can truly be themselves.”
The platform is not just about enjoyment; it’s empowering. Women use the space for social and business networking, wellness advocacy and mental health support. From vibrant dancing and self-care sessions to digital community-building, Doek and Slay is reshaping the narrative around women and entertainment in Zimbabwe.
By showcasing top-tier performers, who resonate with female audiences, the event continues to inspire and attract women from all walks of life. The organisers are now setting their sights on larger platforms, corporate partnerships, government support and expanding beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. Following the energetic Harare edition, the next stop is Bulawayo on April 27.
This September, the event will go international with its first Doek and Slay UK edition, marking a new chapter in its journey to empower women, one celebration at a time.
