Hwange Colliery Club, Zimbabwe – November 2, 2025
The Kuzana Traditional Dance Competition brought together a vibrant tapestry of cultural expressions as dignitaries, community members, and talented dancers gathered to celebrate one of Zimbabwe’s most cherished traditions. The event was graced by the Guest Speaker, Ms Mokuthaba Sandra Moyo acting provincial arts manager in place of the President of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, who delivered a powerful speech emphasizing the importance of traditional dance in preserving cultural identity.
Heartbeat of Identity
In her address, the Guest Speaker described Kuzana as more than just dance; it embodies the heartbeat of Zimbabwean identity. “Today’s event is a living archive of our story,” she stated, highlighting how each drumbeat and movement connects present generations with their ancestors. She reminded attendees that traditional dance is an essential part of Zimbabwe’s narrative, serving as a medium for storytelling, healing, and cultural education.
Celebrating Diversity
The Guest Speaker praised the rich diversity of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage. He acknowledged various dance forms from different communities, including:
- Jerusarema/Mbende from Mashonaland
- Muchongoyo from the Ndau people
- Isitshikitsha from the Ndebele
- Amabhiza from the Kalanga
- Chinyambera and Toyi-Toyi
Each dance not only entertains but also conveys stories of unity, pride, and resilience. The President emphasized that traditional dances have been instrumental in fostering community awareness and appreciation.
A Call for Cultural Preservation
Addressing the immediacy of modern challenges, she urged attendees to recognize the interplay between cultural heritage and development. Hwange, she noted, is not just a mining town but a symbol of unity through diverse cultural expressions. The collaboration among people from various backgrounds serves as a testament to the power of traditional dance to break barriers and promote solidarity.
Inspiring Future Generations
The speech also recognized the efforts of local communities in nurturing cultural practices. “When a young boy learns to drum, and a young girl learns to dance, we are not just teaching skills; we are instilling identity and self-worth,” she said. She advocated for educational programs that emphasize traditional arts, promoting a sense of pride among the youth and fostering a greater connection to their heritage.
Conclusion: A Unified Vision
As the ceremony commenced, the President concluded his speech by officially declaring the Kuzana Traditional Dance Festival open. She expressed gratitude to the dancers for their contributions to Zimbabwean culture and to the Hwange Colliery Company for providing a platform to celebrate and promote traditional arts.
“Culture unites where politics divides,” she exclaimed, reminding all present of the power of dance to heal and connect. The Kuzana festival, she hoped, will continue to grow, inspiring pride across Zimbabwe and ensuring that the spirit of the nation remains vibrant for generations to come.
As attendees clapped and cheered, the stage was set for a day filled with rhythm, joy, and a deep celebration of cultural heritage.
