Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
IMPRESSIVE!
This aptly sums up the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance finals held at Mutare Showgrounds last weekend.
Alick Macheso and Jah Prayzah demonstrated how it’s done by delivering yet another pulsating show in the Eastern Highlands.
First to appear on stage was Jah Prayzah, who warmed up the audience for Macheso.
Jah Prayzah was at his best, showcasing all his artistic flair with finesse.
He made it easier for the crowd to engage by performing sing-along tracks such as “Necessary,” “Chiremererera,” and “Ruzhowa.”
Macheso added a touch of elegance to this year’s edition with a vintage performance that will remain etched in the minds of many for years to come. He was in red-hot form, playing crowd-favourite songs.
In an interview, Macheso expressed his delight at being embraced by fans:
“I enjoy it when people show up in numbers and embrace us. I thoroughly enjoyed this show. I will always give my best to ensure that fans are well catered for. As a band of the people, this means a lot to us. Being appreciated like this is significant. I will always remain humbled by this appreciation.”
Enzo Ishall also performed at the event.
Turning to the competition, Green Stars triumphed at the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional finals, securing a prize of US$15 000.
The second-placed Goromonzi Arts Ensemble earned US$10 000, while the hosts, Semvumba Arts Ensemble, finished third, winning US$7 500 in prize money.
Other participating groups included Guruve Marimba Stars from Mashonaland Central, Sekunjalo MaAfrica from Bulawayo, Jeketera Renyaungwe from Masvingo, Imvimbi Arts from Matabeleland North, Katawa Dance Group from Mashonaland West, Undi Gure from the Midlands, and Sekusile Dance Group from Matabeleland South. It was a marvel to watch as they heavily invested in the competition.
A spokesperson for Green Stars promised to take the Chinyambera dance to another level.
“We will always cherish this moment. As a group, we are committed to putting this money to good use. We did our best to win this. We made history.”
This year’s competition also featured returning finalists who failed to impress judges.
Among the returning groups was Guruve Arts Ensemble (Mash Central), Goromonzi Marimba Arts (Mash East), and Sekunjalo MaAfrica (Bulawayo).
Sponsors, Delta Corporation, expressed their gratitude for an entertaining and well-attended showcase.
“Congratulations to Harare for winning the grand prize, we pride ourselves in this competition that has lived for many years.
“Our consumers have also been supportive throughout the campaign, and we look forward to another exciting edition next year,” said Delta Corporation marketing director Irimayi Muzorewa.
According to the organisers, the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival serves as a crucial platform for grooming and promoting Zimbabwean traditional dance talent. It provides aspiring dance groups with exposure, training and financial incentives, ultimately contributing to the preservation and development of Zimbabwean culture.
