Chibuku Neshamwari 2023 Winners: Sekunjalo MaAfrica take the grand prize
Harare Gardens reverberated with emotion last Saturday as the traditional dance ensemble, Sekunjalo MaAfrica, was announced as the national victor of the prestigious Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival.
Tears of joy flowed freely as the group was awarded the grand prize of US$15,000 for their mesmerizing performance of the Umzansi dance.
The jubilation backstage was palpable as some of the female dancers were spotted wiping away tears of disbelief after the momentous win.
“I feel proud of our director because our hard work has paid off,” said Nonhlanhla Moyo, a dancer with Sekunjalo MaAfrica.
“We really deserve this considering the sleepless nights that we had. We did all-night rehearsals and would resume in the mornings regularly, so we honestly deserve this.”
Sisasenkosi Mpofu, another dancer with the group, echoed the sentiment of perseverance and determination, chanting what appeared to be the group’s motto: “Kancane kancance, siyafika (slowly but surely, we’ll get there/conquer).”
The group’s director, Arnold Ndebele, beamed with contentment, describing the win as a dream come true for the ensemble. “Winning Chibuku Neshamwari and becoming number one in the country means a lot to us. It means people appreciate the craft that we do, and this excites us,” he shared.
Ndebele further expressed his aspirations for the group, stating that the victory would open doors for them to showcase their talents internationally.
After three years of participation in the Chibuku Neshamwari competition, Ndebele declared that this would be their last entry, as they now wish to offer other groups a chance to shine on the national stage.
In second place was Yarira Ngoma Arts, a group from Glen View 1 in Harare, celebrated for their captivating hunting dance, the Chinyambera. Having formed in 2019, the group expressed their pride in achieving second place and winning a cash prize of US$10,000.
Makarekare from Mashonaland East secured the third position with their captivating performance of the Mbende Jerusarema dance, winning a prize of $7,500.
Their spokesperson, Mattersettled Nyikadzino, graciously acknowledged the competition’s unpredictable nature, emphasizing the judges’ role in determining the outcomes.
The event, celebrating its 60th anniversary, proved to be a resounding success, attracting hundreds of spectators.
The theme “Bira Remadhanzi, 60 Years Sithokozisa Ngezomgido!” underscored the festival’s commitment to preserving Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
Delta Corporation’s General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Patricia Murambinda, expressed excitement over the festival’s success and Delta Beverages’ dedication to supporting arts and culture.
Murambinda urged the winners to utilize their prize money wisely to further develop traditional dance in Zimbabwe.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival demonstrated not only the artistry and talent of the participating groups but also the deep cultural significance of Zimbabwean traditions.
The event’s triumphs undoubtedly mark a new chapter in celebrating the nation’s diverse and vibrant cultural heritage. – 263Culture/Herald
Chibuku Neshamwari 2023 Winners: Sekunjalo MaAfrica take the grand prize
