Shingai Dance Troupe wins fourth Chibuku Neshamwari national title
Shingai Dance Troupe won their fourth Chibuku Neshamwari national title in Harare, taking home the $15,000 top prize. The festival, which celebrates traditional Zimbabwean dance, featured groups from all 10 provinces.
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Highlights the preservation of cultural heritage and the role of corporate sponsorship in supporting traditional arts in Zimbabwe.
HARARE, Aug. 2 (NewsDay Live) - Shingai Dance Troupe of Harare claimed its fourth Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national title on Saturday after a captivating Mbakumba performance at the 2026 national finals held at Harare Gardens.
The Mufakose-based ensemble walked away with the US$15,000 top prize and the Chibuku brand ambassadorship after impressing judges with its choreography, authentic costumes and disciplined stage performance before a crowd of more than 12,000 spectators.
Bulawayo's Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble finished second with a Tsutsube performance to earn US$10,000, while Manicaland's Dapura Hunanzva Dance Troupe placed third with another Mbakumba performance, receiving US$7,500 and brand ambassador recognition.
Held under the theme "Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari!" (Let the Drums Play, My Friend), the festival brought together provincial champions from all 10 provinces in Zimbabwe's premier traditional dance competition.
Founded in 1995, Shingai Dance Troupe celebrated its fourth national Chibuku Neshamwari crown.
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