Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
VICTORIA Falls-based Imvimbi Arts are the latest ensemble to book their spot at the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals.
The group emerged victorious at their provincial competitions held over the weekend.
The Imvimbi Arts troupe wowed adjudicators with a gripping performance of the Umzansi dance at Lendulu Bar in Hwange, earning them the top spot in Matabeleland North.
Fellow Victoria Falls-based performers Amakhosikazi Dance Group clinched second place with their vibrant Isitshikitsha routines.
Ingugama Dancers from Tsholotsho settled for third place, completing a fiercely contested top three.
Speaking after the Matabeleland North showcase, Agga Nyabinde, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) communications and marketing manager, hailed the high level of commitment and artistry displayed by all the groups.
“The level of competition in this contest has become evident, reflecting the commitment we have observed over the past few years.
“Groups are now taking this contest seriously, engaging in thorough rehearsals and investing heavily in traditional attire, which is crucial in keeping cultural practices alive,” Nyabinde said.
He said the prize money was driving excellence among participants.
“The US$15,000 prize has increased competition levels significantly, which is what we have longed for over the years.”
However, Nyabinde acknowledged the need for training and workshops to refine performances.
“This is an area we are focusing on to ensure we groom them in various aspects,” he added.
Themed “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane,” this year’s edition continues to celebrate diversity in traditional dance.
At the provincial level, winners walk away with US$2 500, second place earns US$1 500, and third gets US$1 000.
National winners will bag US$15 000, with US$10 000 and US$7 500 going to second and third place, respectively.
The provincial contests continue on June 7 in Masvingo at Masiza Nengere Beerhall in Chiredzi. Mashonaland East will hold its final on June 14 at Padhana Sports Bar in Mutoko, alongside Matabeleland South’s event at Malaxo Beerhall in Beitbridge.
On June 24, Harare will host its competition at Hurudza Beer Hall in Mabvuku while Bulawayo will crown its champion at the Manor Hotel. Mashonaland Central will wrap up the provincial rounds on July 5 at Tipaz Night Club in Shamva.
Mathew Masinge