Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
TEN dance outfits from Midlands province will on Saturday battle it out for the top spot at the Chibuku Neshamwari provincial finals that will be held at Patsime Tavern at Mbizo suburb in Kwekwe.
As the hosts, Kwekwe will be represented by Chipolopolo, Zikuvave Gare, Beni Arinoti and Mbada Ensemble. Mhukahuru TD and Whawha School of Arts will participate coming from Gweru.
Zvishavane will be represented by Chipangano Gure, Rangarira Pasichigare and Maglas Chimutali while Maparanyanga will stand in to represent Mberengwa.
The group to be crowned this year’s winner will join other groups that have already booked places at the national finals which include Shingai Dance Group (Harare), Amakhosikazi (Matebeleland North) and Pisa Pisa Nyau (Mashonaland West).
Others are Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South), Marondera Gure Art Group (Mashonaland East), Musa (Masvingo), Dzimbahwe (Mashonaland Central) and Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble (Bulawayo).
Harare-based Chinyambera outfit Green Stars are the defending champions after winning the 2025 edition held in Mutare with a polished and captivating performance.
As has become the norm, participating groups are leaving nothing to chance, with the lucrative US$15 000 grand prize providing extra motivation.
From elaborate costumes to well-rehearsed
choreography, competitors are investing significant effort as they seek to impress judges and secure victory.
Over the years, the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s premier cultural events, celebrating heritage while promoting unity and friendship among communities.
Provincial competitions began on May 9 and will conclude on July 11, paving the way for the national finals.
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