adminTrust Khosa
BULAWAYO’S cultural ensemble Sekunjalo MaAfrica left Harare US$15 000 richer after coming tops at the 60th Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival on Saturday.
The group impressed the judges at the packed Harare Gardens after a well-choreographed act.
It was evident they really needed the top prize as they simply nailed it on an afternoon of traditional dances.
Harare’s representatives, Yarira Ngoma, came second and took US$10 000.
Third place outfit, Makarekare from Goromonzi, pocketed US$7 500.
Other groups, which won consolation prizes, include Jeketera Renyaningwe from Masvingo, Swerengoma Arts (Mashonaland Central), Imvimbi Dance Group (Matabeleland North) and Mbada Dance Group (Midlands).
Dubbed ‘Bira Remadhanzi, 60 Years Sithokhozisa Ngezomgido,’ this year was special as Chibuku celebrated 60 years of running the competition.
Various stakeholders, including the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe chiefs, Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) and cultural activities, added colour to the event.
Dances, which were showcased, included Muchongoyo, Mbakumba, Jerusarema, Chihodha, Gule/Nyau and Amahiza.
Nutty O and Selmor Mtukudzi provided the after party entertainment.
Meanwhile, the Kadoma July Festival took place at the weekend.
Zimbabweans are fast embracing the culture of festivals.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter