Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
BULAWAYO-based Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble have dedicated their impressive second-place finish at this year’s Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals to the people of Matabeleland, saying the achievement belongs to the region that has supported them throughout their artistic journey.
The ensemble walked away with US$10 000 after finishing runners-up behind Harare’s Shingai Dance Group, who scooped the US$15 000 top prize. Manicaland’s Dapuraunanzva Arts Ensemble claimed third place and received US$7 500.
Held at Harare Gardens over the weekend, the festival brought together the country’s finest traditional dance groups in a celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage. Delta Corporation organised the event through its flagship Chibuku brand in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA).
Ezimnyama captivated both judges and audiences with a polished performance of the Tsutsube dance, a Khoi-San tradition associated with Botswana’s Tswana people. Unlike many traditional dances, Tsutsube is performed without drums, relying instead on whistles, rhythmic hand clapping and energetic footwork. Historically, the dance has been linked to celebrations, healing rituals and hunting ceremonies.
Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble founder Phibion Ncube said securing second place in such a competitive field was a proud moment for the group.
“We’re happy to have managed to take second position considering how stiff the competition was. All the participants came prepared and ready to take the title,” he said.
“We dedicate this win to the people of Matabeleland because of the support they have given us throughout our journey. This win is theirs.”
Ncube said the decision to present Tsutsube was deliberate, as the group wanted to stand out by showcasing a lesser-known cultural expression.
“In 2019, together with our friends from Gwanda, we worked on a production focused on the Tsutsube dance. As we prepared for this year’s competition, I told the team that if we wanted to be competitive, we had to choose a unique dance.
“The team combined its creativity, discipline and talent, and we’re delighted that our efforts paid off,” he said.
—@mthabisi_mthire
