Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge
The stage is set for this year’s Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival, with 10 groups set to battle for top honours in the country’s premier traditional dance competition at Harare Gardens this Saturday.
Organisers have also announced Jah Prayzah as the headline act for the after-party.
The superstar is billed to share the stage with Nisha Ts and Chillspot Records duo DJ Fantan and Levels.
The event is free of charge and is open only to adults aged 18 and above.
“Since 9 May, the festival has captivated audiences across the country, with provinces staging highly competitive provincial finals to select the best traditional dance groups to represent them at the national level.
“The national finalists have now been confirmed, and the groups will compete for the national title in a winner-takes-all contest at Harare Gardens.
“The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of identity, heritage and unity. It continues to preserve and promote Zimbabwe’s diverse traditional dances while bringing communities together on one national stage.
“Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the heartbeat of the nation live in Harare,” said Delta Corporation General Manager for Corporate Affairs, Patricia Murambinda.
The event is organised by Delta Corporation, through its flagship Chibuku brand, in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA).
The winning group will receive US$15,000, while the second- and third-placed groups will pocket US$10,000 and US$7,500 respectively.
Hosts Harare will be hoping to retain the title after Green Stars, a Chinyambera outfit, won the 2025 edition in Mutare with a captivating performance.
This year, Shingai Dance Troupe will represent the capital with the Mbakumba dance.
Bulawayo will be represented by Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble, which will showcase the Tsutsube dance, while Masvingo’s Musa Group will perform Bira reVadzimu in pursuit of the top prize.
Amakhosikazi Cultural Ensemble from Matabeleland North will perform Isitshikitsha, while Mashonaland West’s Pisa Pisa Nyau Malawi will present the Gule Wamkulu dance.
Other groups that have reached the national finals include Dzimbahwe Nengoma (Mashonaland Central), which will showcase Chinyambera; former winners Dapuraunanzva Dance Ensemble (Manicaland), performing Mbakumba; Chipolopolo Zambia Nyau (Midlands); Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South); and Marondera Gure Arts Group (Mashonaland East).
This year’s competition is being held under the theme: “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari!”
The event is expected to attract thousands of cultural enthusiasts from across the country in celebration of Zimbabwe’s heritage and diverse traditions.
