A call for preservation and cultural identity in the tourism industry in Zimbabwe

Charles Mavhunga

Introduction

Preserving and safeguarding heritage sites in Zimbabwe and Africa is crucial for maintaining the cultural identity and historical significance of indigenous communities. Articles 11 and 26 of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples emphasise the importance of upholding cultural traditions, including the protection of archaeological sites and traditional ceremonies. This article delves into the colonialist transgressions in Zimbabwe, specifically concerning indigenous heritage sites such as the Great Zimbabwe ruins, Victoria Falls (Mosi oa Tunya), and Prince of Wales View in Nyanga, shedding light on the loss of identity experienced by the country’s tourism sector as a result.

1. Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Throughout the colonial era in Zimbabwe, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 11th century, endured significant violations of cultural and historical rights. Colonialists engaged in the looting of artefacts from the ruins and other archaeological sites, stripping them of their intrinsic cultural and historical value. This plunder not only diminished the sites’ significance but also contributed to the erasure of indigenous people’s heritage. Furthermore, inadequate preservation efforts by colonial authorities led to further deterioration and loss of valuable cultural heritage. This neglect marginalised indigenous people’s ties to their ancestral lands and history, perpetuating the suppression of their cultural identity and rights. These actions during the colonial period underscore a disregard for cultural and historical rights, undermining the dignity and heritage of indigenous populations residing near the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.

2. Prince of Wales View in Nyanga

The Nyanga chiefdoms were ignored by colonialists who named the viewpoint in Nyanga, Zimbabwe, as the Prince of Wales in honour of the British Monarchy without consulting or respecting the indigenous communities who had historical connections to those places. The Nyanga chiefdoms consisting of Chief Saunyama, Chief Tangwena, Chief Katere and Chief Mupatsi, represent distinct indigenous communities with their own cultural identities and traditions. Chief Saunyama’s people, the Vaunyama or Vatokwana tribe, have Shato as their totem and speak Chimanyika. Chief Tangwen’s community identifies as Wanewa or Wanyanga tribe, with Ingwe as their totem and Nhewa as their chidau. Chief Katere’s people belong to the Hwesa tribe, with Mbeva as their totem and also speak Chimanyika. Chief Mupatsi’s community is of Shumba Tembo (Mbizi) totem and Manyika tribe. When colonialists named the Prince of Wales View in Nyanga in honour of King Edward VIII, who was the Prince of Wales, they disregarded the cultural significance and traditional names associated with the Nyanga Chiefdoms. This act could be seen as a violation of Article 11 of the UNDRIP, which recognises the right of indigenous peoples to practice and revitalise their cultural traditions and customs. The name reflects the historical context of the colonial era when Zimbabwe was known as Rhodesia and was under British rule. The viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Nyanga National Park and the Eastern Highlands.

3. Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)

In addition, David Livingstone, a British explorer and missionary, violated Article 26 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) during his exploration of Victoria Falls in the mid-19th century. Livingstone’s actions disregarded the rights of the indigenous peoples who lived in the area and had traditional connections to the land. By claiming the discovery of Victoria Falls and naming it after Queen Victoria without the free, prior, and informed consent of the local indigenous communities, Livingstone failed to respect their right to own, use, and control their lands and territories according to their traditional customs. Furthermore, Livingstone’s actions contributed to the colonisation and exploitation of the region by European powers, leading to the displacement and marginalisation of indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands. This violation of indigenous peoples’ rights to their cultural heritage and traditional territories exemplifies the historical injustices and disregard for indigenous rights that have characterised colonial encounters throughout history. The enduring legacy of colonialism in Zimbabwe continues to impact indigenous communities today, as they strive to reclaim and preserve their cultural heritage amidst ongoing challenges related to land rights, language revitalisation, and cultural preservation.

The Way Forward

The way forward for Zimbabwe involves continued efforts to recognise and rectify the impacts of colonialism on indigenous cultures. This includes promoting respect for the rights of indigenous peoples to protect and preserve their cultural heritage. In this light, Dr. Auxilia Mnangagwa, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, in her capacity as the ZANU PF Secretary for Environment and Tourism, has played a significant role in promoting cultural sustenance and rebranding Zimbabwe through her various initiatives and projects. Dr. Auxilia Mnangagwa’s work in supporting the preservation and revitalisation of indigenous cultures and traditions in Zimbabwe is a positive step in this direction. The advocacy to recognise and protect indigenous heritage sites, promoting cultural education and awareness and supporting indigenous communities in reclaiming their traditional territories is contributing to the promotion of cultural sustenance and the rebranding of Zimbabwe as a country that values and respects its diverse cultural heritage.

It is crucial for Zimbabwe to continue these efforts and work towards empowering indigenous communities to regain control over their cultural resources and promote sustainable development based on their traditional values. It is through acknowledging the historical injustices and addressing the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous peoples, that Zimbabwe can move towards a more inclusive and respectful society that honours and preserves the cultural heritage of all its citizens.

*Charles Mavhunga co-authored textbooks in Business Enterprising Skills and is currently studying for a Ph.D. in Management at Bindura University. He can be contacted at [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> .Cell:0772989816