Online Reporter
Trust Khosa Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Music superstar, Jah Prayzah, has been unveiled as the headline act of the forthcoming 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals, capping what promises to be a spectacular celebration of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage at Harare Gardens on August 1.
Sharing the stage with Jah Prayzah will be his former bandmate Braveman “Baba Harare” Chizvino, fast-rising singer Nisha Ts, and the Chillspot Records duo of Levels and DJ Fantan, ensuring a diverse musical feast once the traditional dance competition concludes.
The after-party has become one of the festival’s biggest attractions, giving participants and thousands of fans the chance to celebrate alongside some of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated contemporary artistes.
Running under the theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari/Tshay’sgubhu Mngane”, the festival is expected to attract thousands of culture lovers from across the country.
The festival is organised by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) in partnership with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA) and Delta Beverages through its Chibuku brand.
NACZ spokesperson Agga Nyabinde said preparations for the after-party were at an advanced stage, while reminding attendees that it will be strictly for adults.
“Preparations for the after-party are well on course, but it will be strictly a no-under-18 event. As has become the norm, the competitions will end around 5pm, but we also want our participants to stay a little longer and learn from artistes who have made a breakthrough in the industry.
“Variety is guaranteed, from traditional music and mbira to Zimdancehall, Jiti and Afro-fusion. We want our participants to fully embrace the experience.”
Nyabinde encouraged Zimbabweans to attend in their numbers, describing the event as more than just a competition.
“It’s a special occasion that goes beyond competition. It’s a celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural diversity. Our guests will be treated to a diverse entertainment line-up featuring equally talented performers, while, during the afternoon, traditional dance groups will be battling for top honours.
“There’s every reason for us to celebrate this milestone.”
The national finals will see the country’s 10 provincial champions competing for the coveted title and a US$15 000 grand prize, sponsored by Delta Beverages. The runners-up will receive US$10 000, while the third-placed group will walk away with US$7 500.
The road to the finals began with provincial competitions on May 9, with each province set to send its champion to Harare. Bulawayo will be represented by Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble, performing the Tsutsube dance, while Musa Group from Masvingo will showcase Bira reVadzimu. Mashonaland Central’s Dzimbahwe Nengoma will present Chinyambera, while hosts
Harare will be represented by Shingai Dance Troupe performing Mbakumba.
Matabeleland North’s Amakhosikazi Cultural Ensemble will perform Isitshikitsha, Mashonaland West’s Pisa Pisa Nyau Malawi will showcase Gule Wamkulu, while Manicaland’s Dapuraunanzva Dance Ensemble will also perform Mbakumba. Midlands will be represented by Chipolopolo Zambia Nyau, performing the Zambia Nyau dance, Matabeleland South by Bolamba
Culture Birds with Tsutsube, and Mashonaland East by Marondera Gure Arts Group, performing Gule Wamkulu.
The competition’s defending champions are Green Stars of Harare, whose captivating Chinyambera performance earned them victory at the 2025 national finals held in Mutare.
