Chibuku Neshamwari finals on tomorrow

THIS year’s edition of the Chibuku Neshamwari traditional dance provincial competitions roars to life tomorrow (Saturday) at Dzonzayi Complex in Chipinge with 10 groups expected to battle for top honours

National Arts Council of Zimbabwe Mutare region, acting provincial manager, Alexander Tunzi, revealed that this year’s winners will walk away with $300, while the second and third- placed groups will receive $200 and $150 respectively.

The groups are Dhumatasangana who will be showcasing Mbende dance, Redwing Mine (Nyau dance), Nyanyadzi Vocational Training Centre (Muchongoyo dance), Wadyemhembwe (Jaka dance) Chiwaraidze (Muchongoyo dance), Maungwe Traditional Dance Group ( Zhana dance), Maka Sensation (Muchongoyo dance), Charurwa (Muchongoyo dance) and Holland Nyaututwa (Muchongoyo dance). The event starts at 10am.

“We are ready to host yet another edition of the competitions. All 10 groups have confirmed participation and we are expecting another potentially- intriguing event. Besides the winners, we will give the seven losing finalists a consolation fee of $100,” said Tunzi.

The festival which has been running since 1963 is a partnership of Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association, Delta Beverages and National Arts Council of Zimbabwe.

Last year, Redwing Mine’s Ben Arinoti won the provincial finals held in Rusape before the 18- member group went on to win the national finals held at White City Stadium in Bulawayo.

They will perform as a guest group.