The national finals of the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival competitions took place over the past weekend at Harare Gardens. Three provincial champion groups emerged victorious at the national finals: Shingai Dance Group, Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble, and Dapuraunanzva Arts Ensemble.

Mufakose-based Shingai Dance Group claimed the top prize of US$15,000. Bulawayo's Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble finished in second place and received US$10,000, while Manicaland's Dapuraunanzva Arts Ensemble secured third position, taking home US$7,500.

The national finals showcased a high standard of traditional dance, reflecting months of preparation by the participating groups and highlighting the depth of Zimbabwe's cultural talent.

Held under the theme "Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay' Isgubhu Mngane," the festival brought together dance ensembles representing all provinces in a celebration of Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage through traditional music and dance.

The event was organised by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) in partnership with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), with support from Delta Beverages' Chibuku brand. Organisers delivered a professionally staged production featuring quality lighting, sound, and stage management, drawing large crowds to Harare Gardens.

The daytime programme focused on traditional dance performances. Following the competition, the festival transitioned into an evening entertainment programme featuring some of the country's leading musicians, including DJ Fantan and the Chillspot Family artists, Baba Harare, Jah Prayzah, and Nisha Ts.

The annual Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival remains one of Zimbabwe's longest-running cultural events, promoting the preservation of traditional dance while providing a national platform for cultural exchange and artistic excellence throughout Zimbabwe.