The stage is set, the drums are calling, and the excitement is building as the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival reaches its grand finale.
Since May 10, this extraordinary celebration of Zimbabwe’s culture and heritage has captivated audiences across the provinces, and now, all eyes turn to Mutare Showgrounds for the National Finals on July 19, 2025.
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, while Harare, Bulawayo, Matabeleland South, Mashonaland East, and Mashonaland Central prepare to showcase their finest. The Finale will showcase ten groups as they battle it out for the top prize.
“Best of all, entry is absolutely free all people will need to do is to bring their friends to enjoy a full day of entertainment starting from 10 AM until late,” said a representative from Chibuku.
The following groups have made it to the National Final Competitions so far:
| Province | Group | Type of Dance |
| —————— | ———————— | ————- |
| Midlands | Undi Gure Zambia | Nyau |
| Manicaland | Semvumba | Dinhe |
| Mashonaland West | Katawa Traditional Dance | Mhande |
| Matabeleland North | Imvimbi Arts | Umzansi |
| Masvingo | Jeketera Renyaungwe | Bira |
The National Final prizes are as follows:
1st Prize: USD15,000
2nd Prize: USD10,000
3rd Prize: USD7,500
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is a competition and a celebration of the Zimbabwean culture which has helped escalate several talented dance groups to the nation’s main spotlight.