The highly anticipated Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is back, promising a spectacular showcase of our rich heritage through the captivating art of traditional dance.
This year, in proud partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), the festival will unfold under the resonant theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane”, a call for the drums to sound and for friends to beat the rhythm together.
With an impressive legacy spanning over six decades, the award-winning Chibuku Neshamwari festival stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition. This year’s edition is set to be an electrifying experience, connecting communities through the passionate expression of culture, dance, and our shared heritage.
Mark your calendars! The journey begins on the 10th of May and culminates on the 19th of July 2025. The excitement will build through ten thrilling provincial finals, each a vibrant display of local talent, leading up to the grand National Finals.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Zimbabwean culture! “
The stakes are high, with significant monetary prizes awaiting the most outstanding dance groups at both the provincial and national levels. Recall the triumph of last year’s champions from Mashonaland East, who mesmerized audiences with the powerful Mbende Dance. This year, who will rise to claim the coveted titles?
Here’s a breakdown of the prizes on offer:
Provincial Finals:
* 1st Prize: USD 2,500
* 2nd Prize: USD 1,500
* 3rd Prize: USD 1,000
National Finals:
* 1st Prize: USD 15,000
* 2nd Prize: USD 10,000
* 3rd Prize: USD 7,500
For aspiring participants eager to share their cultural artistry, registration is now open through the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the ZNTDA. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a national celebration!
Here are the dates and venues for the provincial finals, your chance to witness the incredible talent across Zimbabwe:
PROVINCE | DATE | NAME OF VENUE | TOWN |
| Midlands | 10 May | Mkoba 4 beerhall | Gweru |
| Manicaland | 24 May | Muchina Muhombe Bar | Mutare |
| Mat North | 31 May | Lwendulu Beerhall | Hwange |
| Mash West | 31 May | EMM Leisure Sports Bar | Banket |
| Masvingo | 07 June | Masiza Nengere Bar | Chiredzi |
| Mash East | 14 June | Padhana Sports Bar | Mutoko |
| Mat South | 14 June | Malaxo Beerhall | Beitbridge |
| Harare | 21 June | Hurudza Mabvuku | Mabvuku |
| Bulawayo | 28 June | Manor Hotel | Bulawayo |
| Mash Central | 05 July | Tipaz Night Club | Shamva |
| National Finals | TBA | TBA | TBA |

Get ready to celebrate the rhythm, the artistry, and the heart of Zimbabwe with Chibuku Neshamwari! Come and Taste the Goodness of our vibrant culture.
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Content Manager at earGROUND AFRICA and creative brands strategist. Combining captivating storytelling with digital savvy, shaping earGROUND's online presence to amplifying the voices of African artists.


