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Nqobile Bhebhe in Victoria Falls
THE national dress fabric was one of the noticeable striking features that stood out at the inaugural United Nations Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy for Africa in the resort town of Victoria Falls.
A vast number of delegates — male and female at Elephant Hills Resort Golf Course and exhibition area were wrapped up in the unique national dress fabric designs, a strong unifying force that ushered in an extra layer of vibrancy.
Ever since that historic launch in 2019, the concept of the national dress fabric has spread like wildfire.
The national fabric is one of First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa’s initiatives that is aimed at instilling a sense of national pride among the citizens especially at national events.
Crafted to reflect the nation’s rich history and diverse regions, the dress is more than an attire and it is a legacy to be cherished and passed down generations.
It embodies the social and cultural identity of Zimbabweans, preserving traditional arts and crafts while adapting to contemporary trends.
President Mnangagwa officially opened the historic event which ends today.
One delegate, Ms Irene Mkwananzi-Dube said she could not have chosen another day to wear the national fabric dress than on Friday.
“I feel proud to wrap myself in this national fabric. Almost all delegates are wearing the fabric which for me highlights a united nation. I am proudly Zimbabwean today,” she said.
Another delegate, Mrs Prisca Nyamanzi said school uniforms and possibly civil servants regalia should be from the national fabric.
“This is just awesome. One striking feature that is on display here is unity among us Zimbabweans through the national fabric.
“In my view, the national fabric should be worn daily, in fact, my wish is for school uniforms and civil servants regalia to be designed from the national fabric,” she said.
The search for the national dress started in 2005 but did not yield any results, prompting Dr Mnangagwa to take it upon herself to ensure that the programme succeeded.
The First Lady has previously said she decided to take up the initiative to come up with a national dress fabric as many Zimbabweans had no idea of what to wear during national events, leading to some adopting foreign styles that do not show pride of identity.
Online Reporter