Shingai Dance Troupe Wins Fourth Chibuku Neshamwari National Title

By Southerton Business Times | Harare

Shingai Dance Troupe of Harare has claimed its fourth Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national championship after delivering a captivating Mbakumba performance at the 2026 finals held at Harare Gardens on Saturday. The Mufakose-based ensemble walked away with the US$15,000 grand prize and a Chibuku brand ambassadorship, impressing judges with its choreography, authentic costumes and polished stage presentation before an estimated crowd of more than 12,000 spectators.

Bulawayo's Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble finished second after performing the traditional Tsutsube dance, earning US$10,000, while Manicaland's Dapura Hunanzva Dance Troupe secured third place with another Mbakumba performance to receive US$7,500 and a Chibuku brand ambassador award. Held under the theme "Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari!" (Let the Drums Play, My Friend), Zimbabwe's premier traditional dance competition featured provincial champions representing all 10 provinces.

Founded in 1995, Shingai Dance Troupe added another chapter to its distinguished history by securing its fourth national Chibuku Neshamwari title. Founder and artistic director Musa Lejala credited the victory to years of dedication, teamwork and community support.

"We have invested heavily in preserving our traditional dances while mentoring young performers through schools and community programmes. This victory belongs to everyone who has supported the troupe over the years," Lejala said.

He said the prize money would be used to strengthen the troupe's operations, purchase costumes and instruments, and invest in training the next generation of traditional dancers.

The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) said this year's competition demonstrated the continued growth of traditional performing arts across the country. NACZ chief executive officer Napoleon Nyanhi said nearly 100 dance groups participated in provincial competitions before the top 10 qualified for the national finals.

"The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival remains one of Zimbabwe's most important platforms for preserving indigenous cultural heritage while creating opportunities for artists to showcase their talent," Nyanhi said.

He commended the long-standing partnership between the NACZ, the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association and Delta Beverages, whose Chibuku brand has sponsored the festival for more than six decades. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), safeguarding intangible cultural heritage—including traditional music, dance and oral traditions—is essential for preserving cultural diversity and strengthening community identity.

Dapura Hunanzva Dance Troupe leader Kevin Simomondo described the third-place finish as a significant milestone for Mutare and Manicaland Province.

"Competing against Zimbabwe's best traditional dance groups and finishing on the podium is a proud moment for us. We hope this achievement inspires more young people to embrace and preserve our cultural heritage," he said.

The festival also featured performances by popular musicians Nisha TS, Ba Harare and Jah Prayzah, while Chillspot DJs entertained crowds during the post-event celebrations. Organisers delivered one of the festival's most professionally produced editions, with modern stage design, giant LED screens, high-quality lighting and sound systems creating a world-class cultural showcase. The annual Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival continues to serve as Zimbabwe's flagship platform for celebrating indigenous dance traditions while promoting cultural tourism, youth participation and the preservation of the country's rich artistic heritage.

Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival