Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
On February 9, 2009, ambitious creative Phibion Ncube took matters into his own hands to advance Bulawayo’s dance scene by founding his own troupe.
He launched Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble with the vision of showcasing Zimbabwean culture through dance. Joined by co-founders Josam Mwanza and Juliet Dube, who remain with the group, Ezimnyama has grown over 17 years into one of Zimbabwe’s most talented, innovative, and widely travelled dance companies.
Travelling to countries like Botswana, South Africa, Switzerland, France, and Spain has become routine for Ezimnyama who have been winning awards over the years.
The group’s male members include Josam Mwanza, Passmore Maseko, Julius Hlabangana, Kelvin Moyo, Mzingaye Ncube, Samson Mandongwe, Kevin Moyo, and Prince Moyo. The female members are Juliet Dube, Natalie Ncube, Faith Moyo, Sakhile Moyo, Belinda Nkhulungo and Nelisiwe Mpofu.
On February 9, 2026, Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble celebrated its 17th anniversary. Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub reporter Mthabisi Tshuma (MT) caught up with Phibion Ncube (PN), the group’s director, who reflected on their journey.
MT: What does turning 17 mean for the group?
PN: It’s unbelievable, especially for me as the founding director, to see how far we have come. From where we started, reaching this milestone feels like a dream come true. The support from people who believe in our creative work and value our culture gives us the strength to keep going.
MT: How will you celebrate this milestone?
PN: We’ll première our newest music and dance production in Bulawayo and across Zimbabwe. This milestone is important, as it gives the younger generation a chance to learn from our work and understand the pride in who we are.
MT: How has the group managed to stay relevant and thrive in Zimbabwe’s competitive dance industry for nearly two decades?
PN: It hasn’t been easy, especially compared to earlier times when there were fewer dance groups. What has kept us going is the quality we bring to every performance, our discipline on and off stage, and our creativity. These qualities have made us a sought-after group and a trusted name in the industry.
MT: Of all your overseas performances, which has been the most memorable, and how have these experiences shaped the group?
PN: The experiences have been challenging, but incredibly educational. We’ve learnt the importance of originality and high-quality performance to stand out in international markets. Adapting to different ways of working overseas has improved our artistry, and our members have benefited immensely from sharing stages and experiences with international performers.
MT: What’s next for the group, upcoming performances, projects, or collaborations?
PN: This year, we will première our new production in Bulawayo and across Zimbabwe. Afterwards, we plan to take it overseas and collaborate with our friends from Switzerland, who will be visiting soon. The partnership aims to connect cultures and celebrate unity through dance.
MT: What are the group’s future goals, and how do you see it evolving in the coming years?
PN: In the coming years, we aim to take Ezimnyama to every corner of the world, showcasing Zimbabwean culture and creating platforms for the next generation of artists. We also plan to expand cultural exchange programmes, inviting international artists to learn about and engage with our heritage.
MT: Which performance do you consider the most memorable or valuable for the group?
PN: The group’s most valuable performance was in 2024 when we performed for His Excellency President Mnangagwa and President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya in Bulawayo.
MT: What challenges has the group faced over the years?
PN: One of our biggest challenges has been securing financial support from businesses and Government institutions for international travel. Our mission is to showcase Zimbabwean culture to the world and position the country as a top cultural destination. We encourage both the private sector and Government to invest more in the creative industry.
MT: What advice do you have for aspiring dance groups to stay competitive and relevant?
PN: I would encourage them to work hard, stay disciplined, and invest in high-quality productions, because excellence always pays off.
MT: Any final words or parting message for your fans and supporters?
PN: We want to thank Bulawayo and all of Zimbabwe for their support – without you, reaching our 17-year milestone wouldn’t have been possible. Siyabonga! – Follow on X @mthabisi_mthire
