Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The arts community is in deep mourning following the tragic death of three members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha Dance Group.
They were involved in a road accident on Sunday along the Gweru-Bulawayo highway while returning from Mutare, where they participated in the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance finals held over the weekend.
In a joint statement, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), and Delta Beverages expressed their shock at the loss of the talented dancers.
“The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), together with the Zimbabwe Traditional Dancers Association and Delta Beverages, wishes to inform the public of an accident that has claimed the lives of three arts practitioners.
On 20 July 2025, the Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group, representing Matabeleland South Province at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival at Mutare Agriculture Show Grounds, was involved in a road accident on the Gweru–Bulawayo highway.
The group comprised of performers employed by How Mine in Mzingwane District, and was travelling home when the accident occurred.
Three members only identified as Ms S Mpofu, Ms IT Mike and Mr L Mazara lost their lives.
“Other group members sustained various injuries and are currently receiving medical care outside of the hospital,” reads the statement.
NACZ, ZNTDA, and Delta Beverages extended their deepest condolences to the Mpofu, Mike, and Mazara families.
“The loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the arts community. We also stand in solidarity with the members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group as they deal with the aftermath of this ordeal.”
