marble nkomo
THE success of the Imiklomelo KaDakamela Cultural Festival in Nkayi is more than a celebratory moment Zimbabwe; it is a timely reminder of the power of culture as the foundation of national identity.
As Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya rightly observed, the festival goes beyond entertainment. It promotes cultural diplomacy, strengthens social cohesion and aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 aspirations. This example should not remain isolated. Chiefs across Zimbabwe must rise to the moment and initiate similar programmes to preserve, promote and institutionalise our rich cultural heritage.
Culture is not an ornament of nationhood; it is its backbone. A country without a living culture and a conscious remembrance of its history risks losing its sense of self. Without identity, a nation struggles to define its social values, political direction and economic ambitions. Zimbabwe’s traditions, languages, customs, music, dress, governance systems and Indigenous Knowledge Systems are not relics of the past — they are tools for shaping the future. Festivals such as Imiklomelo KaDakamela demonstrate how culture can be mobilised as a driver of unity, development and pride.
Chiefs, as custodians of tradition, occupy a unique and influential position in this national task. Historically, traditional leaders were the keepers of values, educators of the young and stewards of community cohesion. In a world increasingly shaped by globalised cultures, that responsibility has not diminished — it has become more urgent. Cultural erosion threatens to disconnect young people from their roots, leaving them vulnerable to identity confusion, social decay and destructive behaviours such as drug and substance abuse.
The Nkayi festival shows what is possible when culture is intentionally celebrated. It attracted participants from across Zimbabwe, neighbouring countries and even Europe, transforming a rural setting into a hub of cultural exchange and economic activity. This is cultural diplomacy in action — heritage becoming a bridge between nations and communities. Imagine the impact if each district, under the leadership of its chief, hosted annual cultural festivals rooted in local traditions while open to national and regional exchange. Such initiatives would stimulate tourism, create employment, preserve endangered practices and instil pride among the youth.
Moreover, culture has economic value. Crafts, music, dance, fashion, storytelling, rituals and traditional cuisine all form part of creative industries that can generate income if properly supported. Chiefs can work with Government, the private sector and cultural institutions to develop sustainable models that turn heritage into opportunity, without commodifying or distorting its meaning. This aligns directly with Vision 2030’s emphasis on inclusive growth and community-driven development.
A nation that forgets its culture forfeits its future. History teaches us that societies grounded in their identity are better equipped to navigate change, resolve conflict and innovate authentically. Zimbabwe’s diversity is its strength, and it must be celebrated intentionally, not left to chance.
Imiklomelo KaDakamela has set the standard. Now the baton must pass to chiefs across the country. By initiating festivals, heritage programmes, youth camps and cultural learning platforms, traditional leaders can ensure that Zimbabwe does not merely remember its past, but actively uses it to shape its future — culturally, socially, politically and economically.
Online Reporter