Terence Kwenda Unveils Animated Video for “Mwana WaRameki,” Bringing Traditional Chinyambera Dance to a Global Audience

Renowned music teacher and performer Terence Kwenda has officially released an animated musical video for his single “Mwana WaRameki,” capturing the essence of Zimbabwe’s vibrant chinyambera dance. The animated video, which brings together youthful energy and tradition, is already making waves, appealing to audiences of all ages with its dynamic visuals and fast-paced music.

Kwenda, widely known for choreographing chinyambera dance at graduation ceremonies and events at the Zimbabwe College of Music, opted for an innovative approach in this project. The video features cartoon representations of the talented artists who contributed to the song, including Kwenda as the composer and lead vocalist, Diana Samkange as co-lead vocalist, Deborah Nzombe and Paida Madiye providing backing vocals, Nkosana Hamandishe on drums, Ronald Mhundwa on bass, Norman Masamba on guitars, and Spenser Masango handling brass and keys.

Chinyambera dance, originating from Masvingo, is traditionally performed to welcome hunters home from their expeditions. Known for its energetic beats and powerful movements, it often accompanies songs like “Nhoro Pamuromo PeShumba” and “Gava Jena.” Kwenda’s “Mwana WaRameki” draws inspiration from this rich cultural tradition, weaving it into a wedding-themed song that carries a satirical twist. The recurring hook of the song, “Tomuperekedza” (Shona for “we are officially accompanying the bride”), highlights the festive nature of the wedding while poking fun at the bride’s supposed shortcomings in a humorous and lighthearted manner.

In the song, Kwenda humorously portrays a bride who defies the odds, despite being described as lazy and unattractive. The song’s playful lyrics also build anticipation, as the community eagerly awaits the identity of the groom, knowing that weddings are reserved for the “chosen ones.”

Kwenda said that the animated video serves a broader purpose, appealing to both younger and older generations. He explained, “The Mwana WaRameki animated video was done by PS Cartoon TV and is already available on the Terence Kwenda YouTube channel. I followed global trends, aiming to produce a video that entertains and brings people together.”

By incorporating Diana Samkange, known for her unique blend of Zimbabwean traditional and cultural music, Kwenda added an extra layer of appeal to the project. He praised his band members, who are not only seasoned musicians but also educators of traditional Zimbabwean music, for their immense talent and contribution to the project.

“Mwana WaRameki is a dance song we should all look forward to,” Kwenda added. “The song was recorded at high dynamic levels to get the audience moving to the rhythm, while incorporating elements of the mahiya, jeketera, and other prominent variations of chinyambera dance.”

The video simplifies many of the intricate movements found in the traditional dance, sparking a curiosity among viewers to experience the real-life performances of chinyambera dancers. In fact, chinyambera dance has been selected as the 2025 competition set piece for the Delta Beverages-sponsored Jikinya Dance Festival, as announced by the National Association of Primary School Heads. The festival has long served as a platform for children to showcase Zimbabwe’s diverse traditional dances, and with chinyambera now part of the competition, it is expected to create greater recognition for the cultural art form.

Kwenda’s “Mwana WaRameki” stands as a prime example of how traditional music and dance can be integrated into contemporary settings. By modernizing chinyambera dance for today’s audience, he is not only keeping the tradition alive but also making it accessible and engaging for a global audience.

Through his music, Kwenda is bridging the gap between generations, showing how well-arranged traditional recordings can promote inclusivity, while pushing Zimbabwean cultural expressions into the contemporary dance floors.