<P> Dancing in Zimbabwe is an important aspect of the Zimbabwean culture, tradition, spirituality and history . There are many dances that reflect the culture of the people, although the dances may have changed throughout the years . Ethnic diversity is also a key factor in influencing the dances of the Zimbabwean culture . These dances are self - reflective, for the entire community because all music and dance are communal events . Dance to Zimbabweans is a very spiritual, powerful tool that carries on traditions, and chronicles the important events of their history and culture . </P> <P> The Republic of Zimbabwe has a population that is about 15.8 million people; the majority, about 76%, live in rural areas . This is a very important detail in light of how many crops are produced by Zimbabwe: coffee, corn, wheat, sugar, tea, and cotton . This agricultural aspect of life is apparent in many of the dances they perform The official language is English, although the Muslim, Hindu, Bahá'í, and traditional ethnic religions are also practiced . There are at least 20 ethnic groups in Zimbabwe, the majority being Shona (about 5 million people) and Ndebele (about 2 million people). There is some division between these groups due to battles between the Shona and Ndebele people in the previous century . Each group has its own history, subculture, and political significance, yet they share many religious and cultural beliefs as well . Every aspect of their culture influences the dances in which they perform . </P>

Traditional dances of ethnic groups found in zimbabwe