Online Reporter
Trust Khosa and Mathew Masinge
FIVE times they tried, five times they failed and then, on the sixth occasion, Shingai Dance Troupe of Mufakose struck gold at the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival.
Their success meant that Harare defended its crown as the curtain came down on the festival at Harare Gardens on Saturday.
Shingai Dance Troupe artistic director, Musa Lejala, said the victory was another major milestone for the group.
“This is one of the proudest moments we have shared as a group, and we are delighted to be crowned the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national champions.
“This was our sixth attempt at winning the title and we have finally claimed the top prize.
“I would like to thank everyone who played a part in our success. We achieved this as a team.
“We are also grateful to the organisers, Delta Corporation, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) for providing us with this platform to showcase our talent.”
Lejala attributed the victory to teamwork and discipline.
“Everyone played their part. Judging by the quality of the other contestants, we knew the competition was always going to be closely contested.
“We stuck to our plan, remained disciplined in our routine, and executed the Mbakumba dance to the judges’ satisfaction.
“We encourage Zimbabweans to continue preserving our traditional dances and platforms such as the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival play a vital role in promoting our cultural heritage,” he said.
The 15-member ensemble walked away with the US$15,000 top prize following a captivating Mbakumba dance performance.
Bulawayo’s Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble, who performed the Tsutsube dance, finished second to pocket US$10,000, while Dapurahunanzva, who won the title four years ago, came third.
The Mutare-based outfit received US$7,500.
Last year, it was Green Stars from Mabvuku, Harare, who pocketed the whopping US$15,000 top prize in Mutare.
The group impressed the judges with its Chinyambera dance routines.
Shingai deserved the victory as the group delivered a vintage performance.
From the impeccable lighting and crystal-clear sound to the well-designed stage and seamless organisation, the NACZ, in partnership with the ZNTDA, delivered a world-class production that exceeded expectations.
Beyond the fiercely contested traditional dance competition, the festival catered for audiences of all ages.
Families enjoyed the daytime programme before the atmosphere shifted into high gear for an electrifying after-party that showcased some of Zimbabwe’s finest musical talents.
If the daytime programme celebrated Zimbabwe’s cultural diversity, the after-party elevated the excitement to another level with glamour, class and infectious energy as every artist on the line-up delivered a memorable performance.
Much of the credit goes to Chillspot Records hypeman DJ Fantan, whose commanding stage presence kept revellers entertained throughout the night.
Fresh from a performance at the 2026 ZimFest in the United Kingdom, DJ Fantan brought the same infectious energy to the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival.
He also made it clear that the after-party was strictly for adults, requesting all under-18s to leave the venue.
“As you know, this is not an under-18 affair, so we don’t want to see youngsters here,” he announced before introducing Zimdancehall artist Madedido.
“It’s now an adults-only affair. Thank you for heeding the call.
“Let’s have fun and drink responsibly.”
Baba Harare also showed why he is one of Zimbabwe’s finest live performers.
Dressed elegantly for the occasion, Baba Harare thrilled fans with his trademark jiti dance routines and an impressive catalogue of hit songs.
Then came Jah Prayzah.
The 39-year-old superstar once again demonstrated why he remains one of Zimbabwe’s biggest musical exports, delivering a polished set that left many fans in awe.
Delta Corporation General Manager for Corporate Affairs, Patricia Murambinda, praised the high standard of competition among the finalists.
“This was another well-executed Chibuku event and we would like to thank all the finalists for bringing their A-game to the stage, as well as our loyal consumers for their continued support and for helping the event run smoothly.
“All the finalists demonstrated that our culture and heritage will continue to be passed down from one generation to the next.
“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,” said Murambinda.
