By Netshakhuma Muleya
THE second day of the Tshitaudze Heritage Festival came to an end on Saturday, September 26, with the final chapter set for September 27 at, Mpande, Beitbridge.
The day was dominated by traditional dances, including Tshikona, a dance performed by the elderly.
The Tshitaudze royal village was alive with cultural colours as the Vhavenda community wore traditional attire and celebrated their heritage.
Cultural groups from the Chief Mabidi clan, Chief Matibe clan and the host Tshitaudze clan took part in the celebrations.
Alternative groups which attended included the Tswana and Sotho Cultural groups from Kohomela,Ha Japi, Mpande village areas.
Schools also showcased Tshivenda cultural dances, including Malende, a traditional dance performed by young girls and boys.
Participating schools included Zezani High School, Kohomela Secondary School, Malala Primary School, Beitbridge Government Primary School, Tongwe High School, Chamnangana Secondary School and Masera Primary School.
Entertainment was provided by local artists and groups, including Master VZ, Krystal Wamrepa, Defeat de Vocalist, Tenny Kelly, Makhadzi Rina, King Hluza, Sdu Kayz, Tshivenda Gospel Music, Tshibilika Dance Group, Fhulu Mpambe and MC Happy.
Students from participating schools were among those who took part in the celebrations.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network, event organiser Dickens Mathe described the second day as a success.
“It was a brilliant day. I am so glad with how different communities from all corners of Matebeleland South turned out.”
He said, the festival had provided an opportunity to celebrate cultural heritage and said organisers were looking forward to the final day.
Entertainment coordinator Beock Nethengwe said the performers had delivered strong performances throughout the day.
“Twenty-five artists, poets and dramatists outdid themselves in splendid performances delivered from all the acts that attended the festival.”
He also said, the festival had provided an opportunity for Beitbridge talent to be showcased and appreciated as the programme continues into Day 3.
Musician Rofhiwa Ndou, known as DJ Afro Master, said artists appreciated the opportunity to participate in the festival.
“We really appreciate being part of the Tshivenda Heritage Festival, which is a great platform for most artists to gain exposure and build popularity as big stakeholders and Chief custodians attended the event.”
Ndou said musicians appreciated being part of the festival and looked forward to receiving an invitation to next year’s edition.
The festival, which began on September 25, also featured a soccer tournament involving eight local teams, including the Chief’s team.
The participating teams were Foromela FC, Mazibeli FC, Tshitaudze FC, Kohomela FC, Makhado FC, Mahupulo FC, Siyoka FC and Mabidi FC.
Foromela FC advanced to the final after defeating hosts Tshitaudze FC in the semi-final, while Makhado FC overcame Siyoka FC 4–2 on penalties.
In the final, Makhado FC defeated Foromela FC 2–0 to become champions of the Tshitaudze Heritage 2026 soccer tournament.