Hip-hop is regarded as one of the country’s most followed and listened-to genres, especially by the youth, or what many refer to as Ama2K.

They showcase their celebration and loyalty to the genre through their fashion style, as well as the dialect they use when communicating.

When the second edition of Kwela Fest, an event co-founded by Asaph Afrika and aimed at showcasing the essence of hip-hop culture, was held on the 5th of September at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo,a number of hiphop followers attended the event.

Among the artists who headlined the event was Kereng, a hip-hop artist based in Bulawayo.
In an exclusive interview with My Kasi Magazine, Kereng said the event created a different atmosphere, as the audience was able to relax and forget their problems while listening to music.

He further informed My Kasi Magazine, that the event plays a major role in the City of Kings and Queens, as it acts as a platform where hip-hop artists are given an opportunity to showcase their talent to their fans.

“People enjoyed good vibes, a space where they forgot about their problems and enjoyed life and music.

“The event is important to me and the hip-hop culture because, as Bulawayo, we are trying so hard to make sure the community gets to know their local music. This is a platform where people can actually interact with their local artists, and of course, not forgetting that these are the platforms that build an industry.”

The guest performing artist , who made his fans stand up from their seats and sing along to his songs, was the legendary hip-hop artist, POY.

Kereng started doing music in 2020 and, since then, he has managed to work along award-winning artists such as Asaph, BlackPearl, Banshee and others.
In 2021, he featured in a film that won an award in New York and at Bulawayo’s BAAs (Bulawayo Arts Awards).
In 2024, he was part of the Next Level programme conducted by the United States, which included award-winning American artist Dee-1, who mentored him.