Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The stage is set for the start of this year’s Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival provincial finals, with Bulawayo hosting the opening competition tomorrow at Manor Hotel.
Running under the vibrant theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane”, this year’s edition promises another colourful celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and traditional expression.
Organisers say preparations for the Bulawayo provincial finals are complete, with up to 10 dance groups expected to battle for top honours.
The competing groups will be unveiled on Saturday.
The competition carries lucrative prizes, with provincial winners set to walk away with US$2,500 for first place, US$1,500 for second place, and US$1,000 for third place. The stakes will be even higher at the national finals, scheduled for July 11 at a venue yet to be announced. National champions will receive a grand prize of US$15 000, while second and third place winners will pocket US$10,000 and US$7,500 respectively.
Following the Bulawayo contest, the festival caravan will move to Mt Darwin, Gutu, Gwanda, Murehwa, Harare, Chinhoyi, Victoria Falls, Nyanga, and Kwekwe as excitement builds towards the grand finale.
Aspiring dance groups have been encouraged to register through NACZ and ZNTDA, while members of the public are being urged to attend in large numbers and experience the rhythm, energy, and cultural diversity that have made the festival a household name.
Harare-based Green Stars emerged victorious at the 2025 national finals held at Mutare Showgrounds, claiming the US$15 000 top prize. Goromonzi Arts Ensemble finished second, while Semvumba Arts Ensemble secured third place.
Sponsored by Delta Corporation in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association, the long-running festival has become one of the country’s most important cultural showcases.
Over the years, it has played a key role in reviving endangered traditional dance styles while empowering rural artistes through exposure and prize money.
