
Mathew Masinge
THE annual Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival has started off with provincial finals set to start this weekend.
Dubbed “Tamba Tione, Gida Sibone!” the competition will run from May 11 to July 27.
Gwanda in will host the first edition of the provincial finals at Collen Bar this Saturday.
Organisers Delta Corporation, through their Chibuku brand, have indicated that the top prize will be US$15 000 while the runners-up will pocket US$10 000 and US$7 500.
“The Chibuku brand looks forward to an exciting festival this year as it connects with its consumers through culture, dance, and heritage.
“Preliminary rounds will start this Saturday in Matebelaland South at Collen Bawn Bar in Gwanda,” said Delta Corporation corporate affairs manager Patricia Murambinda.
All participants have been urged to register their groups with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, and Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association, for them to be able to participate.
Provincial winners will also get US$2 500, the runners-up will get US$1 500, and the second runners-up will get US$1 000.
The main event will be held next month.
Only one participant per province will make it to the national finals.
Last year, the Chibuku brand marked its 60th anniversary and was awarded the Diamond Winner for Best Corporate Event of the Year at the National Exceptional Marketing Awards hosted by MAZ.