The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), Zimbabwe Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), and Delta Beverages have confirmed a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha Dance Group.
The fatal crash occurred on 20 July 2025 along the Gweru–Bulawayo highway as the group was returning home after representing Matabeleland South Province at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival, held at the Mutare Agriculture Show Grounds.
The deceased have been identified as Ms. S. Mpofu, Ms. I.T. Mike, and Mr. L. Mazara—renowned traditional performers employed by How Mine in Mzingwane District. Several other group members sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention outside hospital facilities.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the NACZ, ZNTDA, and Delta Beverages expressed profound sorrow at the loss, describing it as “an irreplaceable void in our artistic community.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Mpofu, Mike, and Mazara families. This tragedy affects the entire arts sector, especially those involved in preserving Zimbabwe’s rich traditional dance heritage,” the statement read.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is a long-standing platform that celebrates Zimbabwe’s cultural expression through dance, with participants from across the country. Sekusile Sitshikitsha had been among the standout performers at this year’s provincial showcase.
Organizers say they remain committed to supporting the bereaved families and injured dancers, and have pledged to keep the public informed on developments as they unfold.
For further details or to arrange interviews, the public is advised to contact the festival’s information desk via +263 712 442 137 or +263 773 475 491.
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