Pre-colonial shrines and their role in the journey to Independence: An opportunity to harness tourism value

Rutendo Nyeve, Features Reporter

IN March 1896, the Ndebele rose against British colonialism in what is now known as the First Umvukela or Second Chimurenga.

Following spirited resistance by the Ndebele, Rhodes and the British South Africa Company (BSAC) concluded that negotiation was the only way to end the conflict.

On the other hand, Ndebele indunas were keen to end the conflict to enable cultivation of crops so as to avoid famine.

That resulted in the two sides meeting at what is now called the Rhodes Indaba Site for the first indaba on 21 August 1896, aimed at the cessation of hostilities.

Follow-up indabas were held at other places culminating in peace on 14 October 1896.

The Ndebele were represented at that indaba by indunas who included Somabhulana, Sikhombo, Mlugulu, Dliso and Nyanda. The BSAC was represented by Rhodes, Hans Sauer, Johan Colenbrander, Vere Stent, John Grootboon and James Makunga.

Located in Umzingwane District, Matabeleland South Province, Rhodes Indaba Site is one of the many pre-colonial shrines in Zimbabwe which hold immense cultural, historical, and spiritual significance, playing a pivotal role in the country’s journey to independence and its national identity.

The shrines, such as the Njelele in the Matobo Hills, the Great Zimbabwe Monuments in Masvingo, and the Chinhoyi Caves, are deeply intertwined with Zimbabwe’s heritage and served as symbols of resistance, unity, and cultural pride during the struggle for independence.

These pre-colonial shrines have stood as tangible links to Zimbabwe’s ancient civilisations such as the Munhumutapa Empire and the Rozvi Kingdom.

They embody the rich history, traditions, and spiritual practices of the Shona, Ndebele, and other indigenous groups.

During the colonial era, these sites became symbols of cultural resilience, reminding Zimbabweans of their pre-colonial glory and fostering a sense of pride and identity.

Many shrines are sacred spaces where traditional ceremonies, rituals, and consultations with ancestral spirits took place. These practices were integral to the social and political fabric of pre-colonial societies.

During the liberation struggle, these sites were often used as meeting points for freedom fighters, who sought spiritual guidance and protection from ancestors, reinforcing their resolve to fight for independence.

The colonial regime sought to suppress indigenous cultures and traditions, but the preservation of these shrines became an act of defiance. They served as rallying points for cultural and political resistance, inspiring unity among Zimbabweans.

While some of these shrines have been given befitting recognition, a recent visit by a Sunday News crew to the Rhodes Indaba Site and other shrines in Matabeleland South discovered that more needs to be done to promote them as both tourist attractions and shrines of educational value.

In an interview, historian Mr Methembe Hadebe said these shrines are repositories of indigenous knowledge, including traditional governance systems, environmental conservation practices, and spiritual beliefs, offering valuable lessons for contemporary society and future generations.

He said the Government must come up with a deliberate educational policy to promote the cultural and historical heritage of the nation.

“We need to have a deliberate policy within our education curriculum that will make it mandatory for pupils to at least visit one pre-colonial shrine, one liberation shrine and one edutainment trip. This way, we will promote our cultural heritage and history as a nation. “Government should also be deliberate in developing these shrines into educational zones with some flair of recreation in order to attract people. People can go there to braai and enjoy their festivities and by so doing, they get a chance to learn the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage,” said Mr Hadebe.

He said relevant authorities can develop infrastructure around shrines, such as visitor centres, walking paths, and signage, to enhance the tourist experience while minimising environmental impact as well as promoting eco-tourism and cultural tourism, emphasising the spiritual and historical significance of the shrines rather than commercial exploitation.

Mr Hadebe also rallied communities to research and document the history, significance, and traditional practices associated with these shrines.

“The significance of these shrines is that there are lessons which we draw from them. If you look at the Rhodes Indaba Site, apart from it being a place where negotiations and peace talks were held leading to peace, we draw lessons that if there are problems within a nation, we should find a way of resolving our problems amicably.

“This is what these shrines should inspire generations. Chiefs for example can also draw lessons from our ancestors who were also chiefs and participated in these peace talks. We are also being taught by these shrines that we should safeguard our heritage jealously.

“There are symbols that we can actually develop as a nation from those shrines. For example, the balancing rocks are a national symbol that we even use in our currency and we are supposed to do the same with these other shrines. We can even go on to name our streets after the shrines,” said Mr Hadebe.

While the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe provides for the preservation of these ancient, historical and natural monuments, relics and other objects of historical or scientific value or interest, the news crew observed that local communities are also playing a role in ensuring the sustainability of these shrines and their integration into Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.

“As a community, we are the custodians of these sites and our involvement ensures that preservation efforts align with cultural practices and traditions. The authorities have at times provided training and economic opportunities for us as locals to participate in tourism activities, such as guided tours, craft sales, and cultural performances,” said Mr Learn Ncube.

Tour guide and director of Bushmen Travel Company Mr Blessing Masenga said the nation can leverage on digital platforms, social media, and international travel fairs to market Zimbabwe’s pre-colonial shrines as unique tourism destinations.

Collaborating with travel agencies and tour operators to include these sites in travel packages, targeting both domestic and international tourists would be useful, he  said.

“We need to promote the visibility of these rich historical and cultural heritage shrines. We need more signage on the roads.”

Pre-colonial shrines are not only vital to Zimbabwe’s cultural and spiritual identity but also played a crucial role in the country’s struggle for independence.

By preserving and promoting these sites as tourism destinations, Zimbabwe can celebrate its rich heritage, foster national pride, and boost the economy.

Sustainable and community-driven approaches are key to ensuring that these shrines remain protected while contributing to the country’s tourism industry.