Peter Matika

Leisure Reporter

WITH the scarcity of leisure centres such as nightclubs, bars, grills in the countryside, a local businessman has made it his job to establish bars and clubs in the countryside to cater for countryfolk and tourists.

With this self-proclaimed mission, Jorum Moyo, the owner of Jabula Inn, situated along Esgodini Road, has set up a leisure centre — Jabula Sports bar — in the little dusty town of Kezi. Located just about 60 kilometres along the Kezi/Maphisa road Jabula Sports bar offers a touch of class both in catering and entertainment.

The newly established sports bar is arguably better than most city bars.

Upon arrival at the bar, an ambient smell of meat emanating from the barbeque area fills your lungs, accompanied by cheers from locals and contemporary jazz music.

Local folk gather at the bar and share smiles as they cheer at the entertainment.

Patrons are mostly middle-aged males and a few ladies.

In an interview, Moyo said he was taking his business to the countryside with the aim of developing small towns and growth points.

“Leisure and entertainment should not be limited to city folk, countryfolk should also have the chance to experience what happens in the city. This will also help in developing our country, as it promotes tourism and creates jobs,” he said.

Moyo said that would be a good getaway for people that are tired of city life.

“This is a good getaway for those who are tired of hanging out in the city. This is an experience that lets you enjoy what nature has to offer,” he said.

Although work on the leisure centre is still in progress, Jabula Sports bar promises to be one of the best outdoor getaways.

Jabula Sports bar was opened about a month ago after undergoing an extreme makeover, which involved high-class décor, wide bar area, new polished teak stools and tables, flat screen TVs, satellite channels, newly tiled floors and chandeliers. The outdoor sports bar boasts good security and offers the best traditional cuisine in the area.

“Every Friday and Saturday we offer free traditional snacks and T-shirts to widen our clientele,” he said.

Moyo added that they had engaged Khayisa dance group (which provided entertainment at the official opening last month) to be the resident dance group to provide traditional entertainment.

Some of the patrons said they were delighted that they had finally been offered the chance to feel city vibes in the countryside.

“This is one of the best things that has ever happened to our community, to have something that we only see in the city. Finally the city has come to us and not the other way round,” said Thamsanqa Dube.

Moyo said they would engage bigger musicians and artistes in future to perform at the bar.

“In the near future we plan on engaging other musicians to provide us with mind-blowing entertainment. Jabula sports bar will offer services that are different from the rest where we hope to have a close client and bar personnel relationship,” he said.

He also said all roads would lead to Jabula Inn in August for Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi’s performance.

“We are hosting Tuku on 25 August, he will be backed by Peter Moyo and Dereck Majaivana,” he said.