Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
TEN of Zimbabwe’s finest traditional dance troupes will tomorrow battle for national glory at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals, set for Harare Gardens, with Manicaland representa-tives Dapurahunanzva determined to reclaim the championship they last won in 2022.
The prestigious cultural showcase will bring together provincial winners from all 10 provinces, each hoping to impress the judges with authentic performances that celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Dapurahunanzva returns to the national stage carrying fond memories of Harare Gardens, where on a beautiful Saturday afternoon in 2022 the group made history by walking away with the coveted title and the US$15 000 grand prize.
On that occasion, they defeated Budiriro Arts and Dedza Chitandizo, who finished second and third respectively.
The group’s artistic director, Keavan Simomondo, told Weekender Entertainment that while competition would be fierce, he was confident his team was ready to rise to the occasion.
“Returning to Harare Gardens brings back special memories for us because this is where we achieved one of the biggest milestones in our journey as Dapurahunanzva. Winning in 2022 inspired us to keep improving, but we know every competition is different and nothing is guaranteed.
We respect every group that qualified because each one is a provincial champion with something unique to of-fer. We have prepared thoroughly, remained true to our traditions and will give our best performance. Our goal is not only to compete for the title but also to celebrate our culture and make Manicaland proud once again,” he said.
The national finals promise a colourful display of traditional dances representing different communities and cultures from across Zimbabwe.
Representing the Midlands is Chipolopolo Zambia, who will perform the Nyau dance, while Mashonaland West will be represented by Pisa, also performing Nyau.
Matabeleland North’s hopes rest on Amakhosikazi from Victoria Falls, while Masvingo will be represented by Mutimurefu School of Arts (MUSA), who earned their place after winning the provincial finals held at Madondo Hotel in Gutu with an impressive Bira reVadzimu performance.
Mashonaland East champions Marondera Gure Arts Group secured their place with the Chewa Gulewankulu dance, while Bulawayo will be represented by Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble, who will showcase the Tsutsube dance.
Harare’s representatives are Shingai Dance Troupe, whose Mbakumba dance earned them the provincial title. Mashonaland Central will be represented by Dzimbahwe Nengoma, performing the Chinyambera dance.
Matabeleland South will field Bolamba Culture Birds, also known as the Tsutsube Dance Outfit, following their provincial victory.
Joining the line-up are Manicaland champions Dapurahunanzva, completing a strong field of performers expected to entertain thousands of spectators.
Running from May 9 to July 11, 2026, the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival has once again been held under the partnership between the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA).
The collaboration has ensured that the festival continues to promote Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage while providing a professionally coordinated platform for traditional dance groups from across the country.
Beyond being a competition, the festival has grown into a national celebration of identity, unity and cultural diversity, bringing communities together through the power of music, dance and storytelling.
This year’s edition is being held under the theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane”, which highlights the spirit of friendship, togetherness and cultural exchange.
The theme encourages communities from different regions to celebrate their shared heritage while appreciating the uniqueness of each other’s traditions.
Through colourful costumes, rhythmic drumbeats and energetic choreography, participating groups will tell stories that have been passed down through generations, preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural identity for future generations.
A statement from beverages giant Delta Beverages, sponsors of the long-running festival, said this year’s competition continues to strengthen cultural preservation while promoting unity through traditional dance. Apart from national pride, the competing groups will also battle for attractive prize money.
The overall winners will walk away with US$15 000, while the first runners-up will receive US$10 000. The second runners-up will pocket US$7 500.
With every province represented by its best traditional dance ensemble, tomorrow’s finals are expected to produce fierce competition as performers showcase Zimbabwe’s rich cultural diversity before judges and dance enthusiasts.
