Story by Patience Nyagato
THE Zimbabwe Staff College has hosted an International Cultural Day bringing together military officers from 12 countries in a colourful celebration of cultural heritage, unity and international cooperation as Zimbabwe concludes its Culture Month commemorations.
The event featured traditional music, dance, cuisine and attire from participating nations, showcasing Africa’s rich cultural diversity while reinforcing the role of heritage in fostering mutual understanding and stronger relations among countries.
Through cultural exhibitions, performances and culinary displays, participants highlighted the shared values and traditions that continue to unite African nations despite geographical and national boundaries.
Commandant of the Zimbabwe Staff College, Brigadier General Christopher Sibanda said culture remains central to identity, values and social cohesion.
“Culture gives us our identity and dignity as a people. It provides the moral compass that guides our lives and shapes our values,” he said.
“My message to the youth is that they should be proud of their cultures, speak their languages and understand their traditions. If we lose touch with our culture, we risk losing direction as communities and as a nation.”
Brigadier General Sibanda warned that while globalisation and social media have created new opportunities, they also pose challenges to preserving cultural values.
“Globalisation and social media are powerful forces influencing societies across the world. While they bring many opportunities, they can also contribute to the erosion of cultural values if we are not careful. Events such as this are important because they remind us of who we are and encourage us to celebrate our heritage,” he said.
Participants said the event demonstrated that Africa’s cultural diversity remains one of its greatest strengths, with many traditions, foods and customs sharing common roots despite differing local expressions.
South African representative Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Tshabalala said preserving culture is essential for future generations.
“A nation that does not honour its heritage will struggle to chart its future. We are committed to instilling in the younger generation the importance of respecting and preserving our cultures,” he said.
“While we come from different countries, our history and heritage are deeply connected.”
Kenyan representative Mrs Naomi Munaa Machengete said the event highlighted the spirit of Ubuntu and the similarities that exist across African societies.
“When you walk around and look at the food on display, you see many similarities. What may be called by a different name in one country is often the same dish enjoyed elsewhere,” she said.
“It gives people who may never have travelled the opportunity to experience other cultures and realise just how connected we are as Africans.”
Nigerian representative Lieutenant Commander Okafor Chinedu said the showcase reflected the shared heritage that continues to bind Africans together.
“If you walk around the different stands, you quickly notice the similarities in our cultures, traditions and way of life,” he said.
“While colonial borders may have given us different national identities, our heritage, values and cultural practices remain deeply connected. At the end of the day, we are one African family.”
From traditional dances and attire to shared meals and cultural storytelling, the event underscored the importance of preserving heritage as a tool for promoting unity, mutual respect and cooperation across Africa and beyond.
As Culture Month draws to a close, organisers and participants said safeguarding cultural heritage remains critical to strengthening social cohesion and deepening understanding among nations.
