NYAWU cultural pride was on full display in Chinhoyi on Saturday as Pisa Pisa Nyawu was crowned winner at the Mashonaland West Chibuku neShamwari provincial finals.
The group's captivating performance earned it the top prize and the sole ticket to represent the province at the national finals on July 11.
The victory capped a day of vibrant traditional dance, pulsating drums and fierce competition as groups from across the province battled for the coveted provincial title.
Pisa Pisa mesmerised judges and spectators with a polished Malawi nyawu performance that blended authenticity with showmanship. Dressed in elaborate regalia complete with masks, the group delivered intricate footwork, synchronised choreography and storytelling that traced the roots of the Nyawu tradition.
Its precision and stage presence set it apart in a field of strong contenders, ultimately convincing adjudicators that they deserved top honours.
The battle for second place was equally intense. Chabvondoka Zambia Nyawu from Sanyati claimed the runner-up spot with an energetic Zambia nyawu performance that brought a distinct regional flavour and drew loud cheers from the crowd.
Third place went to Achewa Malawi Nyawu from Chegutu district. Its podium finish handed Chegutu a double celebration, with the district producing two of the top three groups at the provincial showcase.
Speaking after the event, Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA) vice-secretary and Mashonaland West representative Jeffrey Chikonzo commended the high standards of competition.
“I was impressed by all the competitors who gave their best on stage. The passion and discipline shown today prove that our traditional dance heritage is in safe hands,” Chikonzo said.
He congratulated the winners.
“Pisa Pisa Nyawu deserves this victory. We are proud of them and confident they will represent the province well when we go to the national finals in July,” he said.
The Chinhoyi finals attracted groups from across Mashonaland West, vying for a place on the national stage.
Chibuku neShamwari, run in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association, remains one of the country's most important platforms for preserving and promoting traditional dance.
Beyond the competition, the event fosters cultural exchange, community pride and provides an opportunity for performers to earn income through art.
With the provincial crown secured and the backing of ZNTDA leadership, Pisa Pisa Nyawu will now shift its focus to the national finals on July 11, where it will face winning groups from Zimbabwe's other provinces.