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Richard Muponde Gwanda Correspondent
HOW MINE traditional dance groups on Saturday dominated the Matabeleland South Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional dance provincial finals, bagging the top three positions with the mine’s Ben Arinote dance group scooping the first prize. For winning, Ben Arinote walked away with $500 while How Mine Chihoda which took second position was presented with $300. How Mine Chimutare received $200 for taking third position.
The three groups dominated in a fierce fight for honours in the contest pitting 10 groups from the province. Others were Blanket Mine Arinote, Blanket Mine Chihoda, Zonda Mthakathi, Inqama Yophondo, Isinsinzwa Zomhlaka, Isitshikisha Sokusile and How Mine Chigure.
How Mine groups mesmerised the audiences with scintillating performances which were well-choreographed. However, the mine’s Ben Arinote was outstanding with their dances which were punctuated with gyrating and military-like drills, well supported by the drum beats.
To say other groups did not rise to the occasion will be an understatement as all performances were up to standard leaving judges with a torrid time to choose the best. How Mine Ben Arinote team manager, Asimani Chibwana said he was pleased that they clinched first position as they had prepared well for the competition.
He said they were now preparing for the finals in Bulawayo later this month where they will be competing for a $7,000 cheque. The group which will take second position at the finals will walk away with $5,000 with $3,000 set aside for the third group. “We want to come out tops at the national finals as we believe we have what it takes,” said Chibwana.
Jahunda Community Arts, last year’s Matabeleland South Chibuku Neshamwari winners also graced the occasion and showed the Gwanda community why they were crowned.
Online Reporter