Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
TSUTSUBE dance troupe, Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble, was crowned winners last weekend during the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance contest held at Manor Hotel in Bulawayo.
For their performance, the group earned a ticket to represent the province at the national finals and pocketed US$2 500.
Second-placed was Mthwakazi Kandaba Arts, which showcased its Setaba dance, winning US$1 500, while Bambanani Tradition Dance Group took third place after thrilling the crowd with its Isitshikitsha dance, earning US$1 000.
Other groups that participated in the provincial contest included Thandanani, Iluba Lemvelo, Jaiva Arts, Hosana, Isizwe Sabatsha, and Amanxele Amahle.
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.”
Following their triumph, Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble is now expected to intensify preparation for the national finals.
With US$15 000 up for grabs at the national finals, participants have been determined to win the biggest gong. From wardrobe to choreography, groups are not taking the contest lightly — they are focused on the prize money.
At the national level, the second-placed group wins US$10 000, while the group that finishes below them pockets US$7 500.
Over the years, the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival has grown into a major national event, honouring tradition while fostering unity and friendship among people. It has also become one of the country’s biggest dance contests, where groups are rewarded based on merit.
As the search for the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari representative gets underway, a team of reputable adjudicators oversees the contest. Provincial competitions started May 9 and will end July 11, with 10 provincial finals held across the country ahead of the grand national final. After the provincial events, 10 groups will compete at national level.
Attendees should brace themselves for another rare experience in which traditional dance groups will showcase their distinct cultural identities. Competitors will not only battle it out for the prize money, but will also display their rich cultural heritage.
Groups wishing to take part are encouraged to register with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association.
Sponsored by Delta Corporation in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association, the festival continues to play an important role in preserving Zimbabwe’s traditional dances while empowering local artistes through exposure and prize money.
Green Stars Dance Troupe from Harare won the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance national finals at Mutare Showgrounds on July 19. They took home US$15 000 for their energetic rendition of the Chinyambera dance. Goromonzi Arts (Mashonaland East) came second, and Semvumba Arts (Manicaland) took third.
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 continues to grow for what promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent and cultural heritage. Delta Beverages, the main sponsor, has also been commended for continuously supporting the arts sector, which has the potential to create jobs.
Winners have also been advised to invest wisely for the continuity of their success.
