Chibuku Neshamwari Kicks Off in May

Witness Runodada- Zim Now Reporter

The heartbeat of Zimbabwean culture is set to echo once more across the nation as the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival makes its much-anticipated return for 2025. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the iconic event is more than just a dance competition—it's a celebration of identity, rhythm, and community.

This year’s theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari! Tshay’sgubhu Mngane!” is a spirited call to Zimbabweans to come together in dance and tradition, celebrating the stories passed down through generations.

“This is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of who we are – a gathering of communities brought together by culture and rhythm,” said Irimayi Muzorewa, Marketing Director of Delta Corporation, the festival’s main sponsor.

The festival kicks off on May 10 and will travel across the country through ten provincial finals, culminating in a national showdown on July 19. From Gweru to Bulawayo and Shamva, stages will come alive with the footwork, flair, and fire of traditional dance troupes, each vying to make their province proud.

“Last year’s champions, representing Mashonaland East, captivated the judges with the iconic Mbende dance,” Muzorewa recalled. “We expect the same magic this year, if not more.”

There’s serious incentive to bring the heat. Provincial winners will walk away with US$2 500, while second and third places will take home US$1 500 and US$1 000 respectively. The national finals up the ante with US$15 000 for the champions, US$10,000 for second place, and US$7 500 for third.

Dance groups ready to dazzle are encouraged to register with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe or the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association.

“We’re calling on all cultural dance groups to come forward and show Zimbabwe their moves,” said Muzorewa.

Organised in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association, and proudly sponsored by Delta Corporation, the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival is more than an event—it’s a rhythmic tribute to Zimbabwean roots.