Thando Siziba
Arts and Entertainment Reporter
BULAWAYO – In a pioneering move to address safety gaps in Zimbabwe’s creative sector, theatre practitioner Bhekumuzi “Ronaldo” Khumalo has established Khumalo Elihle Arts Security – a specialised protection service designed by artists for the arts community.
Bridging the Security Gap
Founded in 2023, the company emerged from Khumalo’s firsthand experiences with inadequate security at cultural events. The actor-director-musician recognised that traditional security providers often lacked insight into the unique dynamics of entertainment venues.
“I saw a gap in the security of the arts and entertainment industry,” Khumalo told Zim GBC News.
“Most security personnel hired for events didn’t understand this sector. I decided to create a security company for the arts, by arts people.”
Industry-Tailored Solutions
The firm distinguishes itself through:
- Gender-inclusive teams ensuring audience members are searched by personnel of their preferred gender
- Specialised intoxication management, including designated “custody safe rooms” for disruptive patrons
- Artist protection services covering events and personal security
Khumalo’s unit has already secured high-profile events like the Bulawayo Arts Festival, Sunday Chollars, and Eziko productions, while expanding operations nationwide.
Safety as an Artistic Priority
The CEO emphasised his team’s dual focus on safety and preserving event ambience: *”We don’t just guard – we create environments where creativity thrives without security disruptions.”
With alcohol-related incidents being a sector-wide challenge, the company has implemented protocols to discreetly handle intoxicated attendees while maintaining event flow.
Future Vision
As Zimbabwe’s arts scene grows post-pandemic, Khumalo envisions setting new standards for cultural event safety:
“When artists and audiences feel protected, the industry can truly flourish.”
The venture represents an innovative fusion of Khumalo’s artistic background and security entrepreneurship – a model that could redefine safety norms across Africa’s creative economy.
About the Founder:
Bhekumuzi “Ronaldo” Khumalo is an award-winning theatre practitioner with 12 years’ industry experience spanning acting, directing and music composition. His security venture merges artistic insight with professional protection services.
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