If Doek and Slay had applied for a Guinness World Record for hosting one of the largest women-only concerts, the organisers would have had a strong case. Glamis Arena was stretched to its limits as more than 30 000 women thronged the venue for the final Doek and Slay show of 2025, hosted by DJ Butterphly and Lexxy.
From early hours, the atmosphere signalled that this was not just another ordinary concert, but a cultural movement celebrating womanhood, freedom and unity.
True to the dress code, the sea of ladies turned Glamis Arena into a runway of earthy elegance. Shades of brown, off-white and khaki dominated, complemented by stylish doeks and sunglasses. The coordinated look created a visual harmony and it boosted local fashion businesses, with boutiques and designers enjoying brisk sales ahead of the event. The crowd proved that fashion, identity and economic empowerment can coexist beautifully.
While some critics and members of the opposite sex continue to question or dismiss the concept of a women-only gathering, the attendees see it differently. For women juggling careers, families, relationships and community responsibilities, Doek and Slay offers a rare pause and a space to unwind, recharge and prioritize mental wellness through music and sisterhood.
“I salute my dear husband for allowing me to attend this peaceful event,” said Lucy Chikumi, who travelled from Rusape with her seven friends. “We gather as women to loosen up and have fun. There is no fighting, no fear of pickpockets, and we even network, make new friends and enjoy live performances from our local superstars.”
Another lady echoed the sentiment, saying, “Being a wife, mother and aunt to a big family is demanding. I always look forward to this one special day to just be me. Those few hours are incredibly refreshing.”
Moving the event to a larger venue proved to be a wise decision. Despite the massive turnout, the organisers demonstrated professionalism, particularly at entry points where queues flowed smoothly. Security and logistics were handled efficiently, ensuring a relaxed experience for everyone.
The entertainment lineup was nothing short of outstanding. Nisha Ts stood out as the only female musician on the bill, earning a great response from the audience with a captivating performance.
Intotal Band stirred nostalgia with timeless classics, while Jah Signal injected a high-octane energy, turning the arena into a dance floor with sing-alongs and adrenaline filled moves.
Baba Harare’s appearance felt like a homecoming moment, pushing the crowd to dance relentlessly to the Jiti songs. Even complaints of back pain and aching legs could not slow the momentum. A brief afternoon shower around 3pm was embraced as a blessing rather than a disruption, with women dancing joyfully in the rain.
Jah Prayzah followed with a flawless set, delivering hit after hit alongside his well-coordinated band. Time seemed to vanish as the audience sang every word and drowned into his performance.
The Sungura icon Alick Macheso, who’s still mourning his mentor Madzibaba Nicholas Zacharia, closed the show with grace and authority, proving once again that age is merely a number. He was the best choice to close the 2025 Doek and Slay event as he left an unforgettable mark.
The NAMA award-winning Event Hulks continue to raise the bar with Doek and Slay, a celebration that grows bigger each year, drawing women of all ages and leaving lasting memories well beyond the final note of 2025.
