FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO-Mutimurefu School of Arts (MUSA) clinched the Chibuku Neshamwari Provincial Traditional Dance Competition held at Madondo Hotel in Gutu, Mpandawana on
May 16 2026.
The competition, organised by Delta Beverages in partnership with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association, attracted 10 traditional dance groups from Masvingo Province.
The group outperformed strong contenders including Mawomberaendanga and Dzimbabwe, to secure first prize of USD $2 500 with their Bira performance.
Bira is a Shona spiritual dance where participants communicate with their ancestors.
Formed in 2013, MUSA currently has 15 members, 14 inmates and one student.
This is not their first provincial success, the group also won first prize at the Masvingo provincial competitions in 2014.
Speaking to The Midweek Watch, Correctional Officer Grade 3 Tendai Lessley Chamaida Provincial Public Relations Officer for ZPCS Masvingo Province said the win highlights the impact of arts in rehabilitation.
“The competition reflected ongoing rehabilitation and reintegration programmes within the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, which use arts and cultural activities to promote discipline, teamwork and positive social interaction among inmates,” Chamaida said.
The event also featured a performance by inmate Pitel Dzvuke, who entertained spectators with a Zimbabwean dancehall song during the break.
MUSA will represent Masvingo Province at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival finals on July 11 2026.
The winners will walk away with US$15,000, US$10,000 for 2nd place and US$7,500 for 3rd place.
