Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AWARD-WINNING fashion designer Zana’Kay, real name Nomakhosazana Ncube, has breathed new life into traditional Zimbabwean attire with her latest collection, Chiedza, launched under her brand, A Tribe Called Zimbabwe. The label champions Zimbabwean culture and heritage through fashion and design.
Unveiled on Africa Day, Chiedza draws inspiration from the traditional dress of Shona-speaking maidens, as depicted in a rare photograph from the 1890s. In the historical image, the young women wear leather skirts adorned with chevron patterns, beads, jewellery, and ostrich eggshell ornaments — elements that Zana’Kay has faithfully reimagined in her latest pieces.
The timing of the Chiedza launch follows public outcry on social media after the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, where contestants were criticised for failing to convincingly present authentic traditional attire. Many lamented the lack of representation of what “truly identifies as Zimbabwean” in the traditional wear segment.
For months, Bulawayo-based Zana’Kay and her team immersed themselves in research and design, producing what she describes as “a time machine” — a visual and tactile journey from the 1890s to the present day.
“A few weeks ago, we shared a photograph from the late 1800s showing young Shona-speaking maidens wearing leather skirts with chevron patterns, beads, jewellery, and ostrich eggshell ornaments.
“We decided to recreate this iconic look in 2025 just as it was back then. We imagined the tones and textures of the leather, cowhide, and accessories from 200 years ago. We asked ourselves: ‘What if one of these girls walked through a time machine and found herself in 2025?’ Those black-and-white photos don’t capture the full radiance of her beauty,” said Zana ‘Kay.
Staying true to historical detail, Zana’Kay first created a replica of the original look before introducing a modern evolution. The upgraded version fuses traditional symbolism with contemporary design elements, using the same leather, beads, and ornaments, but with refined tailoring and styling that reflect Zimbabwe’s artistic growth.
“Same traditional materials and tones, same symbolism,” she said, “but with more flair, demonstrating the technological and artistic evolution of Zimbabwean people between 1800 and 2025.”
The result is a striking ensemble that radiates authenticity, pride, and creativity — a statement of identity that’s
“dripping in melanin, gold, copper, ostrich, and cowry shells, draped in fine Zimbabwean leather and cowhide.”
Far from mass-produced fashion, Chiedza is a labour of cultural artistry. Every piece is handmade, ensuring uniqueness and preserving the spirit of traditional craftsmanship.
“Chiedza is authentic handmade wearable art. It’s not fast fashion — it’s a celebration of who we are,” she said.
Since the launch of Chiedza, interest has surged. The collection has attracted over 700 enquiries in just one week, from both local and international fashion enthusiasts eager to own a piece of reimagined heritage.
“We appreciate the love. We assure everyone that we will respond to them and they will get their preferred designs inspired by their taste,” said Zana’Kay.
A Tribe Called Zimbabwe is a powerful brand that celebrates Zimbabwean culture and heritage through fashion and architecture. It expresses the differences in ethnic roots and identities among Zimbabwe’s diverse communities, while also amplifying the shared values that unite them as one.
The brand is making serious waves — not only at home but across the region. Rooted in cultural authenticity, it draws inspiration from Zimbabwe’s traditional reverence for cattle, with cowhide as its signature material. Several high-profile personalities have been spotted wearing designs by the label.
Among them is Napoleon “Napster” Nyanhi, director of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, who recently turned heads in a standout outfit at the Culture Month national launch celebrations in Chiredzi.
Also flying the fashion flag is Germany-based rapper Awa Khiwe, known for blending heritage with modern flair, and Councillor Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles, who made headlines after being elected Mayor of Reading Town (2025–2026) in England.
Peter Tanyanyiwa