Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
With a passion to revive pre-colonial cultural expressions, Zvimba North-based Katawa Arts Group is on a mission to preserve and promote traditional dance as a form of heritage communication.
The dynamic ensemble, formed just last year, has already made a mark by qualifying to represent Mashonaland West province at the upcoming Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals. Their standout
performance of the Mhande dance captivated audiences and judges alike this past weekend, earning them a spot among the nation’s best.
Founder Tatenda Tagarira said the group was established in 2024 with the vision of reconnecting Zimbabweans with their roots through dance.
“Katawa Arts Group now has 30 young, energetic, and talented members. Our main objective is to preserve culture while professionalising the arts sector so that traditional artists can earn a sustainable living,” said Tagarira.
Explaining their choice of Mhande, Tagarira said the dance is deeply rooted in ancestral traditions.
“Mhande is not just a dance, it’s a spiritual practice used by our ancestors to communicate with Zame (God) long before colonial influence. It speaks to who we are as a people.”
The group’s qualification has brought renewed hope and excitement to the local youth, inspiring belief in the viability of traditional dance as both a cultural expression and a career.
“Winning the preliminaries has been a huge motivation. We’re now preparing rigorously for the finals, conducting intensive training and deepening our research to ensure we bring the trophy home,” he added.
As the national finals approach, Katawa Arts Group shows that culture, when cared for and shared, is a strong way to express identity and bring people together. – @mthabisi_mthire
