The 2026 edition of the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival continued over the weekend with vibrant provincial competitions held in Matabeleland North and Mashonaland West, showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dance performances inspired by regional and cross-border traditions.
The provincial festivals, held on June 13, attracted dance groups from various communities who competed for top honors and the opportunity to advance to the next stages of the country’s premier traditional dance competition.
In Matabeleland North, Victoria Falls-based group Amakhosikazi emerged as provincial champions after delivering an impressive performance of the Isitshikitsha dance. The group captivated judges and spectators with their energetic routines, synchronized movements and colorful traditional attire, securing first place in a highly competitive field.
Taking second position was Gulewankulu Hwange, whose performance of the Gure Zambia** dance earned praise for its authenticity and cultural significance. The dance troupe demonstrated the strong cultural ties that exist between communities in Zimbabwe and neighboring Zambia.
Third place went to Amafolosi Amahle, who showcased the popular Indlamu dance, a traditional dance style with roots in South Africa. Their spirited performance highlighted the diversity of cultural influences that continue to enrich Zimbabwe’s traditional arts landscape.
Meanwhile, in Mashonaland West Province, Pisa Pisa Nyau claimed the provincial title with a commanding presentation of the Malawi Gulewankulu dance. The group’s performance stood out for its precision, creativity and adherence to traditional cultural practices associated with the revered Nyau tradition.
The second-place award was presented to Chabvondoka, whose rendition of the Nsenga Zambia Nyau dance impressed adjudicators with its rhythm and storytelling elements. The performance reflected the enduring cultural exchanges that have shaped communities across Southern Africa for generations.
Completing the top three was **Norton Achewa, which secured third place after performing the Achewa Gulewankulu dance. The group demonstrated strong choreography and cultural expression, earning recognition among the province’s leading traditional dance ensembles.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival remains one of Zimbabwe’s longest-running cultural events, providing a platform for communities to preserve, celebrate and promote indigenous dance traditions. The festival also serves as an important avenue for cultural education, bringing together performers and audiences from diverse backgrounds.
As provincial competitions continue across the country, attention now turns to the next stages of the festival where winning groups will compete for national honors. Organizers have praised participants for maintaining high standards of performance and for helping to safeguard traditional dances that form an integral part of Zimbabwe’s cultural identity.
The festival continues to reinforce the importance of preserving cultural heritage while fostering unity through the celebration of traditional music, dance and community traditions.
