Tshay’isigubhu mngane! Chibuku Neshamwari returns

Zimpapers Arts & Entertainment Hub

THE Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is preparing to return for the 2025 edition, reigniting the nation’s passion for traditional dance and cultural celebration.

Running from May 10 to July 19, 2025, the festival, hosted in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), promises a vibrant showcase of Zimbabwe’s rich heritage.

The event will be held under the theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’Isigubhu Mngane”, a call to unite through the beat of the drum and the rhythm of tradition.

A hallmark of Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar for over 60 years, the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival continues to celebrate and preserve traditional dance while bringing communities together. The festival also offers participants a platform to compete for monetary prizes at both provincial and national levels.

Ten provincial finals will precede the national event, with dance ensembles from across Zimbabwe showcasing diverse traditional styles as they compete for a place in the grand finale. The Midlands province will kick off the provincial rounds on May 10 at Mkoba 4 Beerhall in Gweru, followed by Manicaland on May 24 at Muchina Muhombe Bar in Mutare. Matabeleland North and Mashonaland West will host their finals on May 31, at Lwendulu Beerhall in Hwange and EMM Leisure Sports Bar in Banket, respectively.

Masvingo will take the stage on June 7 at Masiza Nengere Bar in Chiredzi, with Mashonaland East following on June 14 at Padhana Sports Bar in Mutoko. Matabeleland South will hold its final at Malaxo Beerhall in Beitbridge on the same day.

The festival heads to Harare on June 21 at Hurudza Bar in Mabvuku, while Bulawayo will host its round on June 28 at the Manor Hotel. The provincial finals will wrap up on July 5, with Mashonaland Central hosting its event at Tipaz Night Club in Shamva.

These provincial rounds will serve as cultural melting pots where age-old dance forms are brought to life with infectious energy.

In 2024, Nyaungwe Arts Ensemble from Mashonaland East claimed top honours with a stirring performance of the Mbende dance, securing victory at the national finals held at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo. Their display stood out for its authenticity and mastery of choreography, earning them national acclaim.