Tragedy strikes Chibuku Neshamwari Festival, three dancers die in road accident
n By Dumisani Ndlovu n nn n HARARE, ZIMBABWE – A pall of grief has descended upon Zimbabwe's arts community following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group. The incident occu
anostrofy By Dumisani Ndlovu
HARARE, ZIMBABWE – A pall of grief has descended upon Zimbabwe's arts community following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group.
The incident occurred, July 20, 2025, on the Gweru-Bulawayo highway, as the group was returning home after showcasing their talent at the prestigious Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival in Mutare.
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), in conjunction with the Zimbabwe Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA) and Delta Beverages, issued a joint statement today confirming the fatalities and expressing profound sorrow.
The deceased have been identified as Ms S. Mpofu, Ms I.T. Mike, and Mr L. Mazara. Several other group members sustained various injuries and are currently receiving medical attention outside hospital.
Sekusile Sitshikitsha, a celebrated dance ensemble employed by How Mine in Mzingwane District, had represented Matabeleland South Province with distinction at the festival held at Mutare Agriculture Show Grounds.
In their statement, the tripartite partners of the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival extended their deepest condolences to the Mpofu, Mike, and Mazara families.
"The loss leaves an irreplaceable void in our artistic community," read the statement, which also expressed solidarity with the surviving members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group as they navigate this difficult period.
The organizers affirmed their commitment to providing support to the bereaved families and pledged to keep the public informed on the condition of the injured.
