A New Era for Jazz in Zimbabwe
Josphat “Josh” Hozheri, known affectionately as “Big Josh” in Zimbabwe’s jazz community, is making a remarkable return. With the upcoming launch of The Moving Jazz Café, Hozheri is working to reinvigorate a genre that has faced challenges over the years. This initiative aims to bring high-quality jazz concerts to different parts of the country, from Bulawayo to Harare.
Hozheri first gained recognition in 1999 when he opened Jazz 105 at 105 Robert Mugabe Way in the capital city. This venue quickly became a hub for jazz enthusiasts and hosted major events like the Winter Jazz Festival. Over the years, it brought renowned artists such as Hugh Masekela, Jimmy Dludlu, Louis Mhlanga, and Dorothy Masuka to Zimbabwean audiences. Through inclusive programs like Ladies in Jazz and school outreach, Jazz 105 helped nurture a generation of local talent.
However, after closing Jazz 105 in 2015 and shutting down his Harare venue, Time & Jazz Café, Hozheri stepped back from the public eye. This withdrawal came especially after the passing of his long-time partner, Thompson Dondo, three years ago. Now, with renewed energy, Hozheri is launching The Moving Jazz Café, a bold two-city festival that aims to bring jazz to different regions across the country.
“For the past 10 years, there hasn’t been a dedicated venue like the former Jazz 105,” Hozheri explained. “So we will take jazz to different parts of the country. I am happy to announce that Jazz 105 Promotions is back, and we will be doing jazz and more jazz.”
Hozheri emphasized his commitment to promoting jazz and ensuring the genre does not fade into obscurity. He believes The Moving Jazz Café will not only be confined to Bulawayo and Harare but will also extend to other towns such as Zvishavane, Mutare, Chiredzi, and other mining communities. These areas have a growing demand for jazz music, and Hozheri is determined to meet that need.
The festival will kick off with a show at The Kings Kraal in Bradfield, Bulawayo, on August 8. Performers include Bekezela, veteran Hudson, Vuyo Brown, and international jazz maestro Louis Mhlanga. The following day, Harare will host the event at Centurion, where Louis Mhlanga will be supported by local acts such as Sub-Sahara Tribe, Jabavu Drive, Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, and Victor Kunonga.
Hozheri noted that the concept addresses a gap left by the neglect of jazz. The elderly and mature audience, who once frequented jazz venues, have had few options as genres like sungura and Zimdancehall dominated the industry. He expressed happiness about the support he has received from various individuals.
One notable supporter is Honourable Phillip Chiyangwa, who has been a strong advocate for jazz music. Chiyangwa was the guest of honor at several Winter Jazz Festivals and even donated four residential stands to musicians. He has since returned to support Hozheri’s vision.
“It will be a pleasure to associate myself with such a brilliant extravaganza in terms of music promotion,” Chiyangwa said. “I have heard a lot about Louis Mhlanga, whom I regard as an international jazz maestro and specialist. For those in Bulawayo, come on August 8 at The Kings Kraal in your hundreds and support jazz music. For those in Harare on August 9, come to Centurion where I will also be part of the audience.”
In addition to his efforts, Hozheri has enlisted the help of youthful promoters such as Roy Zuka, Mehluli “Taz” Moyo, and his brother Taka Hozheri. Their involvement ensures the continuity of jazz through mentorship and collaboration.
Looking ahead, The Moving Jazz Café aims to be more than just a nostalgic reunion. It is envisioned as a premium, curated experience that combines musical revival with spatial mobility. Hozheri acknowledges that the initiative currently relies mainly on ticket sales revenue and expects to secure sponsorships in the future.
After years of silence following the loss of Dondo and the closure of jazz venues, The Moving Jazz Café marks a significant reevaluation of Hozheri’s legacy. He is not only reviving jazz but also redefining how it is presented. According to Hozheri, the café is as much about bringing jazz back into the public consciousness as it is about musical revival, all done with style, mentorship, and artistic integrity.
