Celebrating Lives marks its tenth edition with a surprise tribute to four figures

In March 2026, the cultural initiative promoted by singer Elvira Viegas reaffirms its role in valuing the legacy and contribution of Mozambican personalities.

The cultural initiative Celebrating Lives returns in 2026 for its 10th edition, consolidating itself as a space for recognition, remembrance and celebration of personalities who contribute to the cultural, artistic and social development of Mozambique. The event is scheduled for March 28, 2026, starting at 1:00 PM, at Casa do Artista – Kutenga, in Tchumene I, Matola city.

Maintaining the tradition that characterizes its spirit, the event's promoter, singer Elvira Viegas, announced that four figures will be honored, whose names will only be revealed on the day itself, guaranteeing the element of surprise.

The Casa do Artista – Kutenga, the event's venue, has a history intertwined with the very community essence of "Celebrating Lives". Inaugurated in 2010 as an informal gathering space, its early days were marked by collective sharing meetings, where each participant contributed a packed lunch. In this embryonic phase, groups such as the Theatre of the Oppressed Group, directed by Alvim Cossa, and individuals such as Pacha Viegas, Ivone Viegas, members of the Elvira Band, and guitarist José Guimarães, among others, stood out.

The journey of "Celebrating Lives" reflects a conscious evolution. The first gatherings were dedicated to anonymous individuals from civil society, honoring silent but fundamental contributions. From 2017 onwards, with growth and a desire for greater impact, the event began to focus on honoring artists and prominent figures in Mozambican culture, celebrating both established legacies and trajectories under construction.

Since then, 29 personalities from various fields, such as music, literature, theater, visual arts, and academia, have been honored. Among the names are Dilon Ndjindje, Glória Muianga, Paulina Chiziane, Lília Momplé, Stewart Sukuma, the Ghorwane Band, and the ophthalmologist Ernesto Pechisso, demonstrating the breadth and diversity of the recognition.

More than a festive event, Celebrating Lives establishes itself as an act of valuing collective memory, recognizing those who are alive, and promoting respect for cultural creators. The initiative underscores the importance of celebrating people in the present, acknowledging their journeys and inspiring new generations.

 The 10th edition thus promises to keep this philosophy alive, once again transforming the Casa do Artista – Kutenga into a meeting point, a place for sharing, emotion, and a celebration of Mozambican life and contributions.