Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A unique dress crafted from a hand broom (umthanyelo/mutsvairo) turned heads at the Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe Masvingo provincial pageant this past weekend. The standout design was worn by the pageant’s founder, Sipho Mazibuko.
A fusion of cultural symbolism and innovation, the dress was created by designer Nyashadzaishe Rushwaya, who hails from Masvingo Province. She said the inspiration stemmed from a desire to merge Zimbabwean heritage with contemporary fashion.
“The Umthanyelo dress was inspired by the beauty and richness of our Zimbabwean and African culture. By incorporating elements of traditional Ndebele and Shona designs — such as geometric patterns and vibrant colours—I aimed to create a striking piece that celebrates our heritage.
“Zimbabwe is known for its hand-printed 100 percent fabric, the Samanyika print, which originates from areas like Great Zimbabwe. Traditionally, we use mutsvairo (hand brooms) when working on Samanyika prints to give them flair. That’s how the idea came to life.
“The dress was made from a mix of traditional prints and grass. I wanted to use materials that hold cultural significance while supporting local artisans. This project was about transforming simple, everyday items into something that speaks to our identity,” said Rushwaya.
She said she worked closely with Mazibuko to ensure the dress reflected her personality.
“Sipho’s confident and dynamic character shaped the overall aesthetic of the dress. We wanted something bold and eye-catching, yet deeply rooted in her cultural background. At first, I thought she was joking when she suggested the idea, but her persistence inspired me to gather resources and push the boundaries of my creativity,” Rushwaya said.
Rushwaya explained that the hand broom is more than just a household tool — it carries deep cultural meaning.
“The Umthanyelo dress reflects Ndebele culture through its geometric patterns and use of natural materials like grass, symbolising resilience and vibrancy. In Shona culture, mutsvairo is not only used for cleaning but also in traditional cleansing ceremonies. Through this dress, we wanted to send a message of pride in our heritage and inspire others to celebrate their cultural roots,” she said.
