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The 12-member group debuted at the just ended festival where they showcased their scintillating moves on the Coca-Cola Green stage. They performed Zambian traditional dances ranging from Nyakasanga, Linos and acrobatics among others.
Their drum beating technique caused a stir at Hifa while their attire resembling the Zambian national flag dazzled many.
Gift Chanza, a group member, said Zimbabwe was a blessed country.
“What a wonderful and successful festival it was! I congratulate and thank the organisers for a job well done. They gave us an opportunity to shine. Zimbabwe is a blessed country as the Government fully supports the arts sector. I understand Hifa is internationally known and the support you are getting is overwhelming,” he said.
Chanza said the it was a different case in their country as the arts sector was not fully recognised. He described art as life and called on people to take it seriously.
“Through art we can change the world. I urge all African governments to support the arts and hold festivals like Hifa so that we learn different cultures. Look at how sport is appreciated across Africa, so they should also do the same with the arts,” he said.
Chanza, who is a full-time dancer, said it takes a lot of hard work to be where they are.
“Practice makes perfect. We train everyday and some say dance doesn’t pay but believe you me it is all about passion. We work with children from the community voluntarily. I can say Zimbabwe is far much better than us when it comes to the arts,” he said.
Chanza said the arts sector in Zambia lacked funding as well as exposure.
“Yes, we are fully established but what about others who lack opportunity yet they are talented? We trained and choreographed many people but where does that talent go to, one wonders,” said Chanza.
Inspired by societal settings in Zambia, the group won the coveted Ngoma Awards last year. They have also toured South Africa, Tanzania and Europe.
Currently, they are working on a social media project where they shoot one-minute videos and post them on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and other social networks as a way to promote the arts across Africa.
Online Reporter