Phalaphala FM station manager Mr Freddy Sadiki applauded the large number of community members who turned up to support the finals of Phala Phala FM and Matsila Development Trust's traditional dance competition at Makhuvha Stadium on Saturday.

Sadiki commended the radio station and Chief Livhuwani Matsila of the Matsila Development Trust for their joint effort "to preserve culture and to promote African traditional norms". He said culture was one of the main human tools that should not be left behind during the process of transformation.

Chief Livhuwani Matsila said the youth must convert their energy into the fight against crime, the prevention of HIV, teenage pregnancies, ethnicity, tribalism, disrespect for elders "and all other social ills" that continued to divide them from the realities of life.

He said the traditional leaders were serious about restoring culture and indigenous knowledge. He added that there was a need to teach young children about the value of culture and the importance of restoring it. "Culture and tradition are the foundation on which the prosperity of each nation starts. It is important to continue with initiatives of this nature for the sake of our children. A nation that does not respect its culture, is doomed and does not have any direction."

The winners of the different categories are:

Muchongolo: Hlanganani group; Xibelani: Nyanyuka Magurwani; Maxaxasi: Mudzhadzhani; Visa: Mukondeni; Malende: Tshilungwi; Chicaichai: Mackboys; Tshigombela: Vhurivhuri Ngwenanai and Mubvumoni (tie); Tshikona: Vhutavhatsindi. About R100 000 was distributed among the winning teams.