Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
DZIMBABWE Nengoma Dance Group is making waves on the traditional dance scene in Mashonaland Central Province while pursuing a vision to take their craft to the global stage.
Although in its infancy, Dzimbahwe Nengoma Group has become a force to reckon with in traditional dance circles.
Formed this year, the group wasted no time in winning the coveted provincial trophy in the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival.
Dzimbahwe Nengoma Director Farai Meck who is also president of the National Dance Association of Zimbabwe says the group targets to keep young people away from drugs and substance abuse.
‘‘Dzimbahwe Nengoma compromises of young people school leavers. Our purpose is for those who have a talent to dance. School leavers should desist from drug and substance abuse but contribute to the building of our country through the arts,” he said.
Apart from winning prize money at the recent traditional dance festival, Dzimbahwe Nengoma has been performing at state functions of late, with members prioritising their craft as it is their source of income.
“We started traditional dance as young children at school and it is our passion. So, we just decided to continue with the craft and earn a living,” said one of the dancers, Trevor Kutsamura.
Another dancer, Winnet Chisamba said, “I love arts especially traditional dance as it is something that preserves our culture. Most young people have been hurt by drugs and destroyed their lives, so I decided to join the traditional dance. The money I get from traditional dance is what sustains me. When you see me here I have a family so people should not look down upon us.”
Some of the traditional dances the group specialises in comprise Chinyambera, Jerusarema, Muchongoyo, Dinhe and Amabhiza among others.
