Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Harare defended its Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival title after Mufakose-based Shingai Dance Group delivered a commanding performance to win the 2026 national finals held at Harare Gardens on Saturday.
The victory follows last year’s triumph by Green Stars from Mabvuku, Harare. This year, Shingai Dance Group proved equally deserving of the crown, impressing judges with a polished and captivating performance that stood out in a fiercely contested competition.
Bulawayo’s Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble finished second to pocket US$10 000, while Manicaland’s Dapuraunanzva Arts Ensemble claimed third place and received US$7 500.
The standard of competition reflected the immense preparation and talent displayed by dance groups from across the country, reaffirming Chibuku Neshamwari’s status as Zimbabwe’s premier traditional dance festival.
From impeccable lighting and crystal-clear sound to a well-designed stage and seamless production, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), in partnership with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), delivered a festival that exceeded expectations.
Families enjoyed a vibrant daytime programme celebrating the country’s diverse traditional dances before the event seamlessly transformed into an electrifying after-party featuring some of
Zimbabwe’s biggest musical stars. Much of the evening’s energy came from Chillspot Records co-director and hypeman DJ Fantan (Arnold Kamudyariwa), whose lively stage presence kept revellers entertained throughout the night.
Fresh from a successful appearance at the 2026 ZimFest in the United Kingdom, DJ Fantan brought the same infectious energy to Harare Gardens while reminding patrons that the evening segment was reserved for adults.
Braveman “Baba Harare” Chizvino once again demonstrated why he remains one of Zimbabwe’s finest live performers. Elegantly dressed for the occasion, Baba Harare thrilled fans with his trademark jiti dance moves and a string of crowd favourites, leaving the audience singing and dancing throughout his set.
The excitement reached another level when Mukudzeyi “Jah Prayzah” Mukombe took to the stage. The award-winning musician delivered another polished performance that showcased why he continues to rank among Zimbabwe’s biggest musical exports.
Held under the theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’ Isgubhu Mngane,” the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival lived up to its promise of celebrating Zimbabwe’s cultural diversity through traditional music and dance while successfully blending heritage with contemporary entertainment.
