Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge
CROWD favourites, Chipolopolo Zambian Nyau Dance Group, have stormed into the national finals of the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival set for next month.
All the ten finalists for the national finals are now known.
The successful conclusion of the preliminary rounds sets the stage for a fiercely-contested national finals, where the country’s best traditional dance groups will battle for top honours while celebrating Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
Kwekwe-based Chipolopolo Zambian Nyau Dance Group were crowned Midlands provincial champions during the finals held at Patsime Tavern in Mbizo 7, Kwekwe.
Gweru-based Mhukahufu Dance Group finished second, while Zikuvave Gure from Kwekwe settled for third place.
Organised in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), this year’s edition is running under the theme: “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane.”
Over the years, the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s premier cultural events, celebrating heritage while promoting unity and friendship among communities.
This year’s national winners will pocket US$15,000 while the second and third-placed groups will take home US$10,000 and US$7,500 respectively.
Dapuraunanzva will represent Manicaland after emerging victorious in their province with a captivating display of cultural artistry and traditional rhythms at the weekend.
Organisers have hailed the festival for continuing to preserve and promote traditional dance, providing communities with a platform to showcase their cultural identity and talent.
“We are impressed with the level of competition showcased during the provincial finals and looking forward to an exciting national final on July 11.
“Our sponsors Delta Corporation have changed the shape and level of competition among these cultural dance groups,” said Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association president Kennedy Kachuruka.
Mufakose based ensemble, Shingayi Dance Group, carry the hopes of Harare to win the title after booking a record sixth time as finalists. Bulawayo will be represented by Ezemnyama Arts Ensemble while MUSA will carry the hopes for Masvingo province.
Other groups include Dzimbahwe Nengoma (Mashonaland Central), Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South), Marondera Gure (Mashonaland East), Amakhosikazi (Matabeleland North) and Pisa Pisa Nyau (Mashonaland West).
