Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari provincial finals have progressed to round nine, ahead of the national finals scheduled for July 19 at Mutare Showgrounds.
Event organisers — the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, in partnership with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) — have been praised for their diligence in the selection process, ensuring that winners are honoured based on merit.
Last weekend, Sekunjalo MaAfrica from Bulawayo emerged provincial winners, with Isizwe Sabatha and Bambanani Dance Group coming second and third, respectively.
On July 5, the 10th and final round of provincial finals will take place in Shamva at Tippaz Night Club, where the winners from the Mashonaland Central province will be announced.
Bulawayo’s representatives, Sekunjalo MaAfrica, will join other provincial winners, including Chinyambera dance ensemble Green Stars, who were crowned champions two weeks ago.
Other groups that have qualified for the national finals are Jeketera Renyaungwe from Masvingo, Imvimbi Arts from Matabeleland North, Katawa Dance Group from Mashonaland West, Undi Gure from Midlands, Semvumba Arts Ensemble from Manicaland, Sekusile Dance Group from Matabeleland South, and Goromonzi Arts Ensemble from Mashonaland East.
Nyau dancers have continued to dominate the competition, winning the admiration of the NACZ.
Proud of their culture, Nyau dancers regularly showcase their routines in many ghettos and are also popular in mining and farming communities throughout Zimbabwe.
In a recent interview, Agga Nyabinde, the council’s communications and public relations officer, expressed appreciation for the Nyau dancers and their evident pride in their heritage.
“The dominance of Nyau dancers in this competition demonstrates how deeply proud these dancers are of their culture,” Nyabinde said.
“If you observe closely, it is clear that this is their way of life, something they embody every day. Dancing has truly become their lifestyle.”
Nyabinde urged other traditional dance groups to draw inspiration from the Nyau dancers.
“As an association representing artists, we are proud of them because they are genuinely pursuing their passion,” he said.
“I wish other traditional groups could emulate them. Unfortunately, some only come together for competitions.
“You wouldn’t even recognise them as dancers if you met them on the streets. However, with the Gure dancers, it’s easy to identify them because they are so distinct.”
It is important to note that the prize money has heightened the level of competition, with most groups now investing heavily to win the hearts of adjudicators.
At the provincial level, winners receive US$2 500, while second and third places will receive US$1 500 and US$1 000 respectively.
At the national level, the overall winners will take home US$15 000, with the second and third place finalists receiving US$10 000 and US$7 500, respectively.
This year’s festival has witnessed stiff competition due to the substantial prize money at stake.
In keeping with this year’s theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane,” the provincial finals have progressed smoothly, with all participants leaving with prizes.
For over 60 years, the festival has served as a beacon of traditional arts, revitalising indigenous dance forms and empowering local communities.
As the festival progresses, each province will showcase its unique cultural identity through dance, with competitions held at various venues.
Last year’s champions, Nyaungwe Arts Ensemble from Mashonaland East, captivated audiences with their breathtaking performance of the Mbende dance, clinching the national title at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo.
It was a tough contest in Masvingo last year, considering that all finalists are now investing significant effort into this competition, which has shaped many careers.
Consolation prizes will be awarded to all participating groups, with the top three receiving substantial rewards.
Their victory not only highlights their dedication and skill in traditional dance but also sets the stage for an exciting national competition.
As they prepare for the finals, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent and cultural heritage.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival not only provides a platform for cultural expression and preservation but also offers significant economic opportunities for participating groups.
By valuing and promoting traditional dance, the festival contributes to the appreciation and safeguarding of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage for generations to come.
It is encouraging to see traditional dances being valued for their role in promoting and preserving these traditions.
