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1900

Traditional dance makes major come-backs

Traditional dance makes major come-backs

Date: 2014-02-07
KwaDukuza Mayor Ricardo Mthembu is clear about raising the standard of the Mpondomise traditional dance, Imfene - following concerns that have been raised by the public that this type of dance was being neglected.

"This type of dance was once taken very lightly but now that is starting to change, the people and government are now working together to restore dignity on traditions, this is a cause for pride and celebration,' said Mthembu.

He was speaking during the energy packed traditional dance competition in Shayamoya (Ward 23), KwaDukuza on Sunday; telling the community that this type of dance has survived the danger of extinction.

There have been fears that this traditional dance could suffer extinction if strong action is not taken.

Named after the ape, Imfene was once in the verge of extinction in KwaDukuza but as from last year, activities evolving around the dance have seen on a steady rise and it is now gaining significant recovery through support from government.

Imfene dance originates from the Amampondo people, which is an ethnic group in the Eastern Cape. This traditional dance is often associated with twerking.

Government is working towards restoring dignity to the Mpondomise culture and continues to heighten public awareness and participation around it.

Mayor Mthembu has even said that he will continue to support these groups despite the challenges they have been experiencing in the past.

This is part of fulfilling government's long standing commitments said the KZN MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation Ntombikayise Sibhidla-Saphetha whilst reporting on the latest developments in Shayamoya.

"A lot has happened here; the last time we came here, we unveiled the outdoor gym. People now here enjoy decent human settlements, free electricity, water and sanitation".

Performers were given prize money over the value R15, 000.00 by the Department of Arts and Culture.

"Our ward based intervention programme that was initiated by my office will help traditional dancers with funding" she said.