Chibuku Neshamwari finals on tomorrow

THE wait is over! Ten groups from across the country will battle it out in the Chibuku Neshamwari traditional dance national finals slated for Mutare Show-grounds tomorrow with Mutare representatives, Dhumatasanga hoping to pull a surprise and clinch top spot.

The winning group will pocket $7 000 and a trip to China courtesy of sponsors Delta Beverages through its Chibuku brand. Mashonaland East will be represented by Jerusarema-Mbende group Makarekare while Guruve Marimba group will represent Mashonaland Central.

Mashonaland West will be represented by Chabvondoka while Harare will be represented by Maramuro Mbaba Traditional Dance Group will represent Midlands province

The national winner will walk away with $7 000 as well as a ticket to travel to China. Dhumatasangana group leader Thulani Hombarume was upbeat of a victory saying they were hoping to pull a surprise.

“This is our first time to be in such a hyped contest. We know it will be a tough contest but we are really ready for it. We prepared hard for it and we are confident that we will be among the top. The whole team is confident and we are ready to pull a surprise,” he said.

Last year, Bulawayo-based Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble came out tops in the national finals which were held at White City Stadium in Bulawayo. Culture Warriors and How Mine Chioda were first and second runners up respectively.

National Arts Council Manicaland provincial administration officer Silibaziso Mguni said it was all systems go.

“We are proud to host the national finals. We would like to wish Manicaland winners Dhumatasangana the best as they face other provincial opponents. It is going to be an exciting contest and we urge people to come in numbers as the entrance will be free. They will be a lot of entertainment,” she said.