Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
MASVINGO province continues to play its part in preserving culture and heritage through dance as on Thursday it hosted the belated International Dance Day celebrations.
The International Dance Day (also known as World Dance Day) is celebrated globally every year on April 29th. Established in 1982 by the International Theatre Institute’s Dance Committee (a UNESCO partner), the day promotes cultural exchange, artistic expression, and unity across borders through the universal language of movement.
The event hosted at Maringire Primary School in Chivi and held under the theme “Dancing for Generations”, saw 14 chiefs from Masvingo, Chiredzi, Chivi and Gutu districts attending.
These included guest of honour Senator Chief Serima, Chief Nemauzhe the host and chiefs Nemanwa, Zimuto, Gezani, Neromwe, Shindi, Nyajena, Mugabe, Ndanga, Makamure, Makovere, Chivi and representative of Chief Nhema from Midlands.
Senator Chief Serima said the programme helps us understand who we are and teaches us to be proud of our culture while safeguarding it for future generations.
“Our theme reminds us that Zimbabwean culture is a living heritage that must be passed from elders to younger generations. Through dancing, singing, and our cultural practices, we strengthen the spirit of Ubuntu, which teaches that a person is a person through others. Let us continue supporting the Nhanga/Gota programme, which teaches our children culture, good values, respect, and proper conduct. This programme is vital in building a generation with strong cultural values that respects its heritage.
“Today, we also celebrate our culture and traditions, our food, our traditional games and dances, our beliefs that must be preserved. Furthermore, let us demonstrate this pride by wearing our national fabric. Wearing it is not merely a fashion statement but a symbol of our roots, our unity, and our love for our country,” said Senator Chief Serima.
Senator Chief Serima said they welcome and appreciate the Heritage-Based Curriculum 5.0, which integrates education with our culture and traditions.
“This programme helps our children learn from their cultural background, appreciate the nation’s heritage, and use their talents and skills to build a productive and prosperous future. Here in Zimbabwe, we have thirteen languages that carry our history and culture. If we fail to preserve them, we stand to lose a great deal. That is why the government is working together with chiefs, village heads, and other stakeholders to safeguard our culture and traditions, supported by the National Arts, Culture and Heritage Policy and the UNESCO 2003 Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage.
“Let us use culture as a tool for unity, development, and nation-building. Let us speak our indigenous languages, eat our traditional foods, and develop our talents through dance and music. We also encourage other districts to take steps to recognise and promote celebrations such as International Dance Day so that our culture and traditions can spread throughout the country and our artistic talents can provide us with sustainable livelihoods through dance,” said Senator Chief Serima.
Senator Chief Serima said chiefs and community leaders are the bridge that connects the past with the future.
“To the young people, you are the custodians of this heritage tomorrow. Let us unite, dance, wear our traditional attire, eat and drink together, and preserve our culture not only today but forever. In this way, our children will learn from us. We welcome efforts that help our youth to know, appreciate, and live according to the heritage passed down to them, truly embracing the spirit of “Dancing for Generations.”
Indeed, another important step is required: we must document our traditional dances and cultural practices so that they are not lost or forgotten. We thank our Chiefs and traditional leaders for successfully bringing together your communities and preserving our tangible heritage. We also thank the head of this school and all those who have contributed to making this event possible. Let us celebrate together in unity. Culture belongs to all of us,” said Senator Chief Serima.
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