Martin Muleya
The highly anticipated Chibuku Neshamwari festival is back, promising an exciting celebration of culture, dance and heritage.

This year’s theme ‘Ngoma ngairire shamwari/Tshay’sgubhu Mngane’ encapsulates the spirit of the festival, which aims to bring people together through the universal language of music and dance.
The festival will kick off its provincial finals on May 10th, with the competitions running until July 19th 2025. Teams from different provinces will showcase their unique cultural expressions, traditional dances and vibrant performances, all vying for the top spot.
Last year’s winners, hailing from Mashonaland East province wowed the judges with their impressive Mbende dance performance. This year’s competition promises to be just as thrilling, with teams eager to follow in their footsteps.
The Chibuku Neshamwari festival is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. By promoting traditional music, dance and customs, the festival provides a platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with their communities.