By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
MUSA, a traditional dance group from Masvingo will represent the province at the national finals of Chibuku Neshamwari Dance Competition in July 2026.
The Bira Revadzimu Dance group emerged favourites ahead of Africa Musical Arts Village, a Mbakumba group and Dzimbadzamabwe Traditional Dance group which performs Jukwa in second and third position.
Under the vibrant theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane” (Let the drum roar, friend, and strike the gubhu, comrade), Delta Corporation’s Marketing Director, Irimayi Muzorewa, fired up the nation with a rallying cry that’s already echoing through towns and villages:
“Yorira ngoma shamwari, siyakhal’ is’gubhu mngane!” (Let the drum sound, friend — we’re calling the beat, comrade!)
From 9 May to 11 July 2026, the festival will sweep across all 10 provinces, turning every corner of Zimbabwe into a stage for tradition, talent, and togetherness.
Provincial finals will feed into the ultimate showdown — the National Final — where the country’s best traditional dance groups will battle for glory, pride, and life-changing cash.
And the stakes? Massive.
Provincial Finals:
1st Prize: USD 2,500
2nd Prize: USD 1,500
3rd Prize: USD 1,000
National Finals:
1st Prize: USD 15,000
2nd Prize: USD 10,000
3rd Prize: USD 7,500
But it’s not just about the money. Partnering with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), the festival is a love letter to heritage — a celebration of the moves, stories, and rhythms that make Zimbabwean culture unstoppable.
Aspiring groups must register with NACZ and ZNTDA. So warm up those dancing feet, rally your crew, and answer the drum. Chibuku is calling.
Yorira ngoma shamwari — siyakhal’ is’gubhu mngane!
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