Tendai Gukutikwa
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
A TRAGIC accident claimed the lives of three members of the Sekusile Traditional Dance group, who had just participated in the Chibuku Neshamwari National Dance competition at Mutare Showgrounds on Saturday.
The group, hailing from How Mine in Matabeleland South, met with disaster approximately 20 kilometres from Bulawayo on Sunday, when their vehicle overturned after the driver lost control on a sharp curve.
Sekusile had wowed audiences with their captivating Isitshikitsha dance performance.
The accident also left several other group members injured, and they are currently receiving medical attention.
“The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), together with Zimbabwe Traditional Dancers Association and Delta Beverages wish to inform the public of an accident that has claimed lives of three arts practitioners. On 20 July 2025, the Sekusile Sitshikitsha Dance Droup, representing Matabeleland South Province at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival in Showgrounds, was involved in a road accident on the Gweru-Bulawayo Highway.
“The group, comprised of dedicated performers employed by How Mine in Mzingwane District, was travelling home when the accident occurred. Sadly, three members lost their lives – S Mpofu, IT Mike and L Mazara. Other group members sustained various injuries and are currently receiving medical care outside hospital. The NACZ, ZNTDA and Delta Beverages, would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Mpofu, Mike, and Mazara families.
“The loss leaves an irreplaceable void in our artistic community. We also stand in solidarity members of Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group as they deal with the aftermath of this ordeal. As the tripartite partners of Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival, we are committed to giving support to the families of the deceased and to keep the public informed on the status of the injured and bereaved,” read part of the joint statement issued by NACZ, Delta Beverages and ZNTDA.
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