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Walter Mswazie recently in Chiredzi
THE third edition of the annual Great Limpopo Cultural Fair held over the weekend at Chiredzi’s Chishamiso Stadium lived up to its billing with Takashinga Cultural group from Chief Gudo’s area providing top-drawer performances.

The exhilarating act enthused guest of honour, Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko.

“President Robert Mugabe has set a Ministry responsible for the preservation of culture. It’s our responsibility to make sure that no culture becomes extinct,” said VP Mphoko.

The three-day event which kicked off on Thursday was held under the theme: “Improving Rural Livelihoods through Cultural Entrepreneurship”. It attracted delegates from Mozambique, South Africa and Swaziland who showcased their cultural wares which ranged from Shangani books, traditional foods, fruits and artefacts.

But, it was Takashinga cultural dance group who kept dignitaries on their feet as the group showcased a flawless display which earned them a lot of admiration. Their nimble-footedness was a marvel to watch, justifying their Zimbabwe International Carnival best cultural dance group award.

During the official opening, VP Mphoko engaged children in a racing competition, after which he presented the top three winners with cash prizes.

He also launched a national anthem competition for primary schools in Chiredzi with winners expected to walk away with a $1,000 prize money and a floating trophy.

“I’m impressed with the way children from Chiredzi Government High School sang the national anthem. I’m introducing a national anthem competition in Shangani and IsiNdebele.

“I want the MP for this constituency, Cde Darlington Chiwa to come to my office to collect the trophy and money for the competition,” said VP Mphoko, much to the children’s applause.

Organisers of the fair, Gaza Trust said this year’s edition was bigger as it was graced by high-ranking government officials.

“We’ve come of age and the fact that the event was graced by the Vice President means a lot in our endeavour to take the fair to another level,” said Gaza Trust co-ordinator, Herbert Pikela.

He hailed chiefs for participating saying their presence added value to the event.