Martin Muleya
HARARE-The stage is set.
The drums are calling.
Across Zimbabwe, anticipation is reaching fever pitch as the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival has reached the grand finale, promising an unforgettable celebration of culture, heritage and national pride.
On 1 August 2026, all roads will lead to Harare Gardens, where the country’s finest traditional dance ensembles will gather for the National Finals of Zimbabwe’s premier traditional dance festival. Hosted in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association, this year’s edition will once again unite communities through the vibrant rhythms, colours and traditions that define Zimbabwe’s rich cultural identity.
Since the 2026 edition of the festival kicked off on 9 May, audiences across the nation have been treated to electrifying performances as provincial competitions showcased exceptional talent and fierce competition. From village squares to urban centres, dancers have celebrated the unique traditions of their communities while competing for the honour of representing their provinces on the national stage.
Ten provincial champions have earned their place in the National Finals and will battle for the coveted national title.
They are Enzimnyama Arts Ensemble from Bulawayo performing the Tsutsube dance; Musa from Masvingo presenting the Bira revadzimu dance; Dzimbahwe Nengoma from Mashonaland Central performing Chinyambera; Shingai Dance Troupe from Harare showcasing Mbakumba; Amakhosikazi from Matabeleland North performing Isitshikitsha; Pisa Pisa Nyau from Mashonaland West presenting the Malawi Gulewankulu dance; Dapuraunanzva Dance Ensemble from Manicaland performing Mbakumba; Chipolopolo Zambia Nyau from Midlands showcasing the Zambia Nyau dance; Bolamba Culture Birds from Matabeleland South performing Tsutsube; and Marondera Gure Arts Group from Mashonaland East presenting the Chewa Gulewankulu dance.
Each group carries the hopes and pride of its province, bringing to the stage generations of tradition expressed through powerful choreography, captivating drumbeats, colourful regalia and compelling storytelling.
Beyond the prestige of being crowned national champions, the finalists will compete for substantial prize money.
The winning group will walk away with USD15,000, while the first runners-up will receive USD10,000 and the third-placed group will earn USD7,500.
Yet, the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is about far more than prizes and trophies. It is a living celebration of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage—a platform that safeguards traditional dances, honours ancestral customs and inspires younger generations to embrace their roots. It is where diversity becomes strength and where communities from every corner of the country come together as one through the universal language of music and dance.
As the countdown to the national finals continues, excitement is building. The stage is ready, the performers are prepared, and the heartbeat of Zimbabwe will echo through Harare Gardens on 1 August. When the drums begin to beat and the dancers take to the stage, the nation will once again witness a spectacular showcase of unity, heritage and the enduring spirit of Zimbabwean tradition.
Harare-based Green Stars Dance Troupe won the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance national finals, which were held at the Mutare Showgrounds. They took home the grand prize of US$15,000 for their energetic rendition of the Chinyambera dance.
