By Tatiana Mhararira
Masvingo’s renowned traditional dance group, Jeketera Renyaningwe from Chivi is gearing up to represent the province at the highly anticipated Chibuku Neshamwari national tournament set for July 19, 2025 at Mutare Showgrounds in Manicaland Province.
The group known for their captivating Bira dance performances has been making waves in the traditional dance scene and is eager to showcase their skills on a national platform.
In a statement, Delta Corporation said the partners were ready for the finals and five provinces had already crowned champions.
“This year’s festival, hosted in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), has brought communities together in a shared celebration of traditional dance.
“Five provinces have already crowned their champions, Midlands’ Undi Gure with the Zambia Nyau type of dance, Manicaland’s Semvumba group with Dinhe dance, Mashonaland West’s Katawa traditional dance with Mhande type of dance and Masvingo’s Jeketera Renyaungwe with Bira dance while Harare, Bulawayo, Matebeleland South, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central prepare to show their finest,” read part of the press release.
The National Final prizes for the first, second and third prizes are US$15 000, US$10 000 and US$7 500 respectively. Entrance is free and attendance are promised a full day of entertainment starting from 1000 hours till late.
This year’s festival promises to be an electrifying celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage, with exceptional dance groups from across the country set to compete for the top prize.
Previously at the 2024 national finals held in Masvingo, Nyaungwe Arts Ensemble from Mashonaland East took the first prize and won US$15 000 for their Mbende dance performance. Culture Warriors from Harare secured second place and Dapurahunzva Arts Ensemble from Manicaland came in third and won US$10 000 and US$7 500 respectively.
