Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
POPULAR hypeman and Chillspot Family co-director DJ Fantan, born Arnold Kamudyariwa, says his inclusion in the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival after-party is a testament to hard work, focus, and resilience.
The energetic entertainer, who rose from humble beginnings in Mbare, Harare, will share the stage with Jah Prayzah, Baba Harare, and Nisha Ts after the main competition, which ends at 5pm on Saturday.
“It’s no doubt a dream come true for us to be included in this star-studded line-up.
“I never imagined that one day a corporation such as Delta and the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe would approach us for our services.
“By the way, it all started as a hobby 15 years ago when the movement began in Mbare.
“It’s like a miracle for us, having started from the bottom, to be where we are today.”
DJ Fantan, who will perform alongside his long-time partner Rodger “Levels” Kadzimwe, added: “Each time we take to the stage, I can guarantee fans an unforgettable experience.
“Fans know what we are capable of because we are committed to uplifting Zimdancehall and ensuring the genre continues to make a lasting impression.
“We have also been promoting young talent and discovering new gems during our performances, which is why many upcoming artistes speak highly of us.”
DJ Fantan, who performed at Zimfest over the weekend, said the Chillspot brand has grown beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
“It’s not easy to earn appreciation both overseas and back home.
“For us, this is a triumph on its own, and we can’t afford to take it lightly.
“We will bring the same energy to Chibuku Neshamwari on Saturday, and fans need to come out in their numbers.” The after-party will be strictly an “Adults Only” affair, with no persons under the age of 18 allowed. The stage is set for Zimbabwe’s biggest traditional dance showcase, where the country’s 10 finest cultural ensembles will battle for the US$15 000 grand prize.
Running under the theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari/Tshay’sgubhu Mngane,” the festival will culminate in a star-studded after-party headlined by superstar Jah Prayzah.
Besides the US$15 000 top prize, the runners-up will receive US$10 000, while the third-placed group will pocket US$7 500.
The road to the national finals began with provincial competitions on May 9, with each province selecting its champion to represent it in 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, and 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.
Defending champions Green Stars of Harare will be hoping to retain their title. They won last year’s edition in Mutare after delivering a captivating Chinyambera performance that impressed both judges and spectators. The festival promises to be a fitting celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural diversity through traditional music, dance, and entertainment.
By restricting the after-party to adults only, organisers say they are prioritising the safety and welfare of children.
