By Rangarirai Shanyurai
The 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival will run from May 10 to July 19, showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage. The Masvingo event is scheduled for June 7 at Masiza Nengere Bar in Chiredzi.
In a recent press statement, Delta Corporation announced that national winners will receive US$15,000, first runners-up will take home US$10,000, and second runners-up will earn US$7,500. At the provincial level, winners will receive US$2,500, with US$1,500 and US$1,000 awarded to second and third place, respectively.
This year’s festival theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane,” celebrates unity through dance. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the award-winning Chibuku Neshamwari Festival continues to captivate audiences through cultural expression and traditional dance.
Delta Corporation, in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), is leading this year’s edition.
“This year’s festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of our culture and heritage through traditional dance,”
“Aspiring participants must register their groups with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and ZNTDA.”
“Competitions will take place across all ten provinces, culminating in the national finals.
“In preparation, ten provincial finals will be held, leading to the national finals. Participants have the chance to win monetary prizes at both provincial and national levels,” reads part of the statement.
Last year’s national winners, from Mashonaland East, showcased the Mbende dance.
This year’s provincial competitions will be hosted in Gweru, Mutare, Hwange, Banket, Chiredzi, Mutoko, Beitbridge, Mabvuku, Bulawayo, and Shamva.
