RESPECT BUTE, TRADITIONALISTS SAY

Paidamoyo Bore

TRADIONALISTS have urged people to respect the use of traditional snuff, saying many were using it without full knowledge.

This comes at a time there is a rise in the number of youths using traditional snuff.

Virimai Nhedega, affectionately known as Vee Mhofu, a mbira player, said traditional snuff is powerful and should not be taken for granted.

“Bute is something important in our culture and should not be taken for granted.

“It helps in different ways and there is nothing bad about taking it.

“Vanhu havafanire kuribatira padenga chete because, if not handled properly, it can negatively affect you as well,” he said.

Vee Mhofu added:

“Let’s say someone is into prostitution and starts using snuff to lure clients, the person will actually be inviting a bad omen.

“Using snuff is actually a form of prayer to Musikavanhu and people should not be taken lightly.

“I urge people to respect our culture and know the boundaries.”

The artist said he is a snuff supplier.

“I supply to different countries like Netherlands, Canada, UK and most of my fans like it.

“Pane reHondo, which is too strong, reMatare and Mudombo.

“At the height of Covid-19, people were using it to try and cure the disease and it worked.”

The snuff is also in high demand among the Manjuzu cult.

One manjuzu, Fungai Gaviao (34), said she proudly uses the snuff for luck and protection.

“Let’s say I am in need of money, ndinokumbira nebute racho kuvadzimu zvotoita.

“It gives me luck and also protects me from bad omens.

“However, I urge people, like slay queens, not to abuse or misuse snuff, as the consequences could be grave,” Gavio said.

Netsai Kaitano (48) of Murehwa, who adopted the name Machembere after her conversion to snuff, concurred with Gaviao’s sentiments.

“I sprinkle it under my pillow before I sleep and I dream about future events.

“I also use it kuuchika madzimai anenge achinetseka nepamuviri.

“Snuff is not bad, it is us who misuse it, as I am seeing a lot of young women calling themselves manjuzu.

“Possessing a mermaid spirit is not as easy and simple as they think. People need to respect.”