Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
IN an era of globalisation, social media and rapidly changing lifestyles, Zimbabweans are being challenged to hold firmly onto their cultural roots, amid growing concerns over cultural erosion.
The message took centre stage at Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Manicaland Province’s Culture Day celebrations at Jubilee Gardens last Friday, where culture was celebrated, not only as a symbol of identity, but also as a tool for rehabilitation, unity and nation-building.
Traditional leaders, correctional officers, learners, rehabilitation experts, corporate partners and inmates used the occasion to call for the preservation of indigenous knowledge, customs and values, warning that cultural heritage remains under threat in an increasingly globalised world.
Held under the national Culture Month theme: “Cultural Diversity: Advancing Vision 2030,” the event highlighted the critical role culture plays in shaping national identity, promoting social cohesion and guiding future generations.
Traditional healer and cultural advocate, Shingirai Mukotsanjera, who was one of the main speakers, said Zimbabweans must remain vigilant in protecting their cultural identity.
“Our culture teaches us who we are, where we come from and the values that guide our communities. We must cherish our traditions and ensure that future generations inherit this rich heritage.
“While there is nothing wrong with embracing development and modern technology, we should never abandon our customs and values in favour of foreign practices that weaken our identity.
“The knowledge passed down by our ancestors has sustained communities for generations and continues to offer solutions to many of today’s social challenges,” he said, adding that culture remains one of the strongest pillars of nationhood and social stability.
“When people lose touch with their culture, they also lose a sense of belonging and direction. Our traditions promote unity, discipline, respect, responsibility and social cohesion.
“These are values that help build stronger families and stronger communities. Protecting culture is therefore, not only about preserving history; it is about securing our future as a people,” he said.
The commemorations brought together representatives from all five correctional institutions in Manicaland Province — Mutare Remand Prison, Mutare Farm Prison, Little Kraal Farm Prison, Chipinge Prison and Rusape Prison — as well as learners from Christian Group of Schools and Mutare Prison Junior School.
Colourful traditional dances, poetry, music and exhibitions characterised the event turning it into a living showcase of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors were treated to displays of traditional artefacts, indigenous fruits, medicinal herbs and foods such as mufushwa, which sustained communities long before the introduction of modern food systems.
The event also celebrated the national dress, gastronomy and indigenous games, underscoring the importance of preserving local traditions and passing cultural knowledge from one generation to the next.
Officer Commanding ZPCS in Manicaland Province, Spetosomusa Chinobva, said the belated Culture Day celebrations offered an important platform for cultural education and appreciation.
“We are happy to be celebrating Culture Day because it allows us to understand and appreciate the importance of our culture.
“Culture preserves our history, promotes mutual respect and strengthens the bonds that hold our communities together. It provides us with a sense of identity and reminds us of the values that have guided our society for generations.
“As ZPCS, we recognise that culture also plays an important role in rehabilitation by encouraging positive behaviour, discipline and personal transformation,” she said.
Chinobva said cultural programmes within correctional institutions help inmates reconnect with positive values while preparing them for successful reintegration into society.
“Rehabilitation is about helping individuals become productive members of society again. Through cultural activities, inmates gain a deeper appreciation of their identity and heritage while learning important life values such as respect, responsibility and teamwork. These are essential qualities for successful reintegration,” she said.
Traditional leader, Harunawadya Makomva lauded the correction service for creating a platform that promotes cultural exchange and preservation.
“Such events remind us of the value of our traditions and encourage us to preserve our heritage. Culture gives us a sense of belonging and strengthens community ties. It is important that young people continue learning about their roots so that they can proudly carry forward the legacy of their ancestors,” he said.
The event also addressed contemporary social challenges, with representatives from Utano Rehabilitation Centre delivering an awareness presentation on the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
The organisation urged young people to make responsible choices and seek assistance when confronted with addiction, warning that substance abuse destroys families, compromises health and undermines the values that culture seeks to uphold.
Corporate partners, Betterbrands and GTel joined the commemorations in support of community development and cultural preservation initiatives.
For inmates, the event served as both a learning experience and a rehabilitation programme, reinforcing positive values through cultural participation.
An inmate from Chipinge, Dzidzai Pambuka, who is serving a jail term at Little Kraal Farm Prison, said the celebrations gave him renewed hope and motivation to change his life.
“Today, we are celebrating the spirit of our culture, and I am happy that we are part of the participants. This event has reminded me of the values I grew up learning key positive traits such as respect, honesty and responsibility in my community.
“Participating on this event has helped me reflect on my mistakes and appreciate the importance of living according to positive values. I am determined to reform and return to society as a changed person who can contribute positively to my family and community,” he said.
