Harare’s Shingai Dance Troupe Wins Chibuku Neshamwari National Title

Harare’s Shingai Dance Troupe emerged as the 2026 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national champions on Saturday, claiming the coveted title and US$15,000 after a captivating display of the Mbakumba dance at Harare Gardens.

The victory crowned months of competition that began with provincial finals across Zimbabwe, bringing together the country’s finest traditional dance ensembles in a celebration of culture, heritage and artistic excellence.

Representing Harare Province, Shingai Dance Troupe outperformed nine provincial champions to lift Zimbabwe’s most prestigious traditional dance title.

Bulawayo’s Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble finished second with a spirited performance of the Tsutsube dance, earning US$10,000, while Dapurahunanzva from Manicaland claimed third place with another impressive Mbakumba performance to take home US$7,500.

Organised by Delta Beverages in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association, the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival has become one of the country’s longest-running cultural events, preserving indigenous dance traditions while providing performers with a national platform.

The 2026 edition featured provincial champions representing every corner of Zimbabwe, showcasing a rich tapestry of traditional dances, including Tsutsube, Mbakumba, Gulewankulu, Chinyambera, Isitshikitsha and Bira reVadzimu.

Beyond the competition, the festival once again demonstrated the enduring appeal of Zimbabwe’s traditional arts, drawing large crowds who witnessed performances rooted in generations of cultural storytelling, rhythm and community identity.

The celebrations extended well into the evening with a star-studded after-party featuring performances by Jah Prayzah, Baba Harare, Nisha Ts and the Chillspot Family, blending contemporary Zimbabwean music with the day’s cultural festivities.

The festival continues to play a significant role in safeguarding Zimbabwe’s intangible cultural heritage by encouraging communities to preserve traditional dances and pass them on to younger generations.