The 2007 Zwashu Indigenous and Cultural Dance Organization competitions kicked off with a mighty sound at Khakhu Secondary School on Saturday.

Tshikona, Malende and Tshigombela dancers fought for supremacy during the tightly contested elimination round.

Zwashu marketing manager Norman Khakhu says the competition lived up to the organization’s expectations. "Judging by the huge turnout of the spectators and the commitment of the participators, it was clear that everyone is taking this competition seriously. Our organization was only established last year in February but we have already made an impact on the revival of culture through traditional dances."

Phophi said the top four Tshikona groups in the preliminary competitions include Khakhu Thondoni (80%), Khakhu Makuleni (76%), Sheshe (69%) and Tshiavha (62%). "In the Tshogombela dance we had Makuleni (69%), Tshiheni (63,3%), Tshixwadza (63%), Tshiavha (62%), Sheshe (58%) and Gogogo (57%). In the Malende dance we had Tshixwadza (82%), Gogogo (78%), Tshiheni (72%), Makuleni (66% and Sheshe (60%)."

Phophi said the pleminary competitions will proceed to Makonde on 30 June, with different groups participating. "The 10 best groups from each category will compete later this year."

For more information about Zwashu, Phophi can be contacted at 076 386 7048.