Three members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha traditional dance group have died following a tragic road accident that occurred on 20 July 2025 along the Gweru–Bulawayo highway.
The group, which was representing Matabeleland South Province at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival held at the Mutare Agriculture Show Grounds, was travelling back home when the accident happened.
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), Zimbabwe Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA), and Delta Beverages confirmed the incident in a joint statement released Monday.
The deceased have been identified as Ms. S. Mpofu, Ms. I.T. Mike, and Mr. L. Mazara. Several other performers sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention outside of hospital, according to the statement.
“The loss of these talented and dedicated artists leaves an irreplaceable void in our artistic community,” read part of the statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to the Mpofu, Mike, and Mazara families, and stand in solidarity with all members of the Sekusile Sitshikitsha dance group during this difficult time.”
The dancers were employed by How Mine in Mzingwane District and had just completed their performance in the national cultural festival, which celebrates traditional dance across Zimbabwe’s provinces.
Organizers of the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival have pledged continued support to the affected families and promised to provide updates on the condition of the injured performers.
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