Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE inquisitive and resonant phrase, “kuyini lokhu?!” (what is this?!), of the late, revered Zimbabwean author, historian, and cultural icon, Pathisa Nyathi, not only echoed through the halls of the Amagugu International Heritage Centre (AIHC) during his final years but now forms the title of a significant new documentary.
“Kuyini lokhu?” — a meticulous labour of love and preservation executively produced by AIHC — is nearing its public première. The film serves as a powerful chronicle of a remarkable, women-led movement safeguarding Zimbabwe’s ancient San rock art heritage across the Matobo Hills. This final, passionate project, championed by Nyathi, is now a reality thanks to the unwavering dedication of the AIHC team over the past two years.
The story the documentary tells captures an extraordinary evolution that began over a decade ago with a simple, vibrant hut-painting competition in Ward 17 of Matobo. This modest initiative has blossomed into a profound cultural force, placing local women at the vanguard of preserving, interpreting, and documenting the region’s fragile rock art—paintings that have endured for millennia but face increasing threats from weathering, neglect, and modern development.
The documentary’s journey and its core narrative were brought into sharp focus last year during the impactful “Echoes from the Rock” exhibition at the Natural History Museum in Bulawayo. Crucially supported by the US Embassy in Zimbabwe through its Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), the exhibition celebrated the Matobo women’s transition from simply adorning their homesteads to becoming respected cultural custodians.
It was here that a compelling trailer for “Kuyini lokhu?” was first unveiled. Directed by cultural preservationist and videographer Priscilla Ncube-Sithole, the preview offered a glimpse into the women’s painstaking efforts to replicate the ancient, fading artworks onto durable canvas and fabric under the tutelage of Bulawayo muralist Leeroy “Sphinx” Brittain.
The preview, watched by community members, dignitaries, and cultural enthusiasts, filled the room with palpable pride. Mavis Ncube of Ward 17 reflected on the dedication captured in the film.
“Painting on canvas was hard at first but now, we’re grateful to be authors of our own history. From painting huts to replicating rock art, it’s been a long but fulfilling journey.”
This journey, however, was not without significant hurdles. Ncube spoke candidly of early community tensions.
“The Christian community initially viewed rock art as devilish. But over time, understanding grew. Dialogue and education bridged divides. Today, we stand united and proud as custodians of our rock art.”
This shift underscores a central theme of the documentary: the reclaiming and re-contextualisation of heritage within the contemporary community.
AIHC director and the documentary’s production manager, Allington Ndlovu, emphasised the profound civic engagement ignited by the project.
“We witnessed powerful reconnections. Women rediscovered ancient colour-blending techniques, techniques whispered down through generations but in danger of being forgotten. Children engaged by sketching their own visions for preservation. Local leaders, artists, transporters, and researchers came together, not as disparate individuals, but as a unified community with a shared purpose: protecting their irreplaceable heritage.”
This grassroots unity, fostered under Nyathi’s initial vision and the AFCP’s support, forms the documentary’s beating heart. Ndlovu confirmed that preparations for the official screening première at the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe are now in their final stages.
The project’s innovative spirit was also visible in the Echoes from the Rock exhibition, which showcased rock art-inspired fashion pieces.
“These ancient motifs, translated into modern textiles, highlighted how these powerful symbols can journey from sacred cave walls to vibrant, wearable art and contemporary home décor, ensuring their relevance continues to evolve.
Rebecca “MaNcube” Archer-Knepper, former Public Diplomacy Officer at the US Embassy, powerfully articulated the project’s core principle.
“This initiative perfectly embodies the AFCP’s mission, which is to support local expertise to protect cultural heritage for generations to come. It’s about the community leading the preservation of their own culture, owning their narrative.”
This community ownership is vividly portrayed in “Kuyini lokhu?” featuring contributions and insights from villagers across Mawusumane, Halale, and other surrounding areas — the very people living alongside this ancient art.
The documentary itself is a product of skilled collaboration involving Sound Engineer Bonweyinkosi Sithole, cameramen Cornelious Ngwenya, and director Priscilla Ncube-Sithole, with essential academic and logistical backing from the Natural History Museum and the University of Zimbabwe.
— Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
