derick.khumalo
Mthabisi Tshuma in HARARE
HOST city representatives Shingai Dance Group has created a jubilation atmosphere at Harare Gardens after coming tops at the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival competition held on Saturday afternoon.
The group walked away US$15 000 richer ans was followed by Bulawayo’s finest dance outfit Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble who bagged US$10 000 while third position went to Manicaland’s Dapuraunanzva Arts Ensemble taking home US$7 500.
Position one and three groups performed the Mbakumba dance, a lively Karanga harvest dance that originated in Masvingo and has become popular at celebrations across the country.
Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble showcased the distinctive Tsutsube dance, a Khoi-San tradition linked to Botswana’s Tswana people. Performed without drums, the dance relies on whistles, rhythmic hand clapping and vibrant movement, and has traditionally been associated with celebrations, healing and hunting ceremonies.
The event, organised by Delta Corporation through its flagship Chibuku brand in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the ZNTDA, will conclude with an after-party headlined by Jah Prayzah, alongside Baba Harare, Nisha Ts and Chillspot Records duo DJ Fantan and Levels.
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