Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ), through its Cultural Equity Programme, has completed a second museum dedicated to a minority ethnic group, this time in honour of the Nambya people in Hwange.
This milestone follows the inauguration of the Batonga Museum in 2004, marking yet another significant step in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe’s marginalised communities.
Zimbabwe, a nation known for its cultural diversity, is home to a wide range of ethnic groups, many of whose histories have long remained underrepresented in mainstream narratives.
As the country commemorates 45 years of independence, this latest initiative seeks to acknowledge, celebrate, and preserve the cultural contributions of all its peoples.
“This museum, as the Nambya people, helps us trace our roots. It tells us how we settled in Hwange District, the routes we took, and other crucial historical details,” a Nambyan local said.
“It is also beneficial for other tribes in Zimbabwe to learn about the values, history, and culture of the Nambya people,” a community member said.
Next on the agenda are similar museums for the Kalanga and Venda in Matabeleland South, and the Ndau in Manicaland.
“These groups are often located at the margins or borders of our country. Many are cross-border cultures the Batonga across the Zambezi, the Venda across the Limpopo, the Kalanga across Botswana, and the Ndau across Mozambique.
“These communities have historically been underrepresented in our national museums. So far, we have successfully established the Batonga Museum, and now, the Nambya Museum in Hwange is ready for launch.
“The Nambya Museum is particularly significant as it comprehensively traces the history of the Nambya people,” the Acting Deputy Executive Director for the National Museums and Monuments, Mr Kundishora Chipunza said.
As Zimbabwe celebrates 45 years of independence under the theme: “Zim@45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030, this initiative resonates deeply, highlighting how the celebration of minority identities can build a more inclusive and unified national future.
