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This website is an online school directory for Zimbabwe, and gives a list of some of the many religious mission schools in Zimbabwe. While there are religious schools in the US, it is interesting that all of these schools were founded by outsiders. It's like they all wanted a chance to "educate" Zimbabweans in their own culture. This resonates with the novel because Tambu goes to a couple of different mission schools, and at first really appreciates the culture and atmosphere. By the end of the novel, though, she realizes that the "white savior" complex of the schools has taught her to think of her own culture as less than.

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See the list of church-run mission schools in Zimbabwe. Many of these schools tend to perform well in public exams.

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This study by the Department of Transport and Supply Chain Management for the University of Johannesburg discusses the state of and difficulties involved in public transportation that faced Zimbabwe particularly in the late 1990s to early 2000s. Though this is primarily a study of transportation at a later time than Nervous Conditions shows, it also touches on that era. It helps add to my understanding in how Tsitsi's means of transportation could be as decrepit and repulsive as she describes them. At that time, a single corporation held control of this crucial piece of infrastructure, leading to the horrible buses discussed being the only ones available. The citizens compromised so much because they had no other choice.

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This article on examines how the end of Robert Mugabe's 37-year rule in November 2017 marked a potential turning point in historical periods for Zimbabwe. Emmerson Mnangagwa initiated a "second republic" in aiming to distance himself from Mugabe's legacy left behind. Through all of the new elites, political shifts, and economic and governance reforms, political dominance and institutional frameworks remained consistent.

This article carefully recognizes genuine reform potential and deep-rooted continuities embedded in Zimbabwe's political culture. This piece highlights complexity of transitional moments and how power is shifted. Understanding these political changes and how the country is forever changed and still continuing to change, helps me know a lot more about the social and cultural changes in Zimbabwe

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November 2017 will forever be etched in the minds of Zimbabweans, as the moment involving the end of Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule and the beginning of a post-Mugabe ‘era’ under the leadership of Em…

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This website covers the culture of Zimbabwe and the different beauties within the culture. With two of the largest ethnic groups being the Shona and Ndebele their language is practiced often along with English. A common food choice is cornmeal which is used to make Sadza. Many wear modern, western-style clothes and at times, traditional colorful, tribal clothes. It is only since land colonization that written literature has become popular, whereas oral literature was historically more prevalent. Crafts and music play an integral part in past and present Zimbabwe culture. A large cultural piece is gender where men rule the household and the wife/mother is in charge of the children. When it comes to education, boys have greater opportunities to complete school. This article has enhanced my knowledge as many of the cultural practices stated here connect to Nervous Conditions, especially the gender biases between men and women. This resonates as we see how Tambu is prohibited from attending school first, robbing her of the same opportunities as boys, expressing the common occurrence of men being favored.

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Stone statues are some of the famous handicrafts of Zimbabwe.

The landlocked southern African nation of Zimbabwe hosts a population of 14,030,368 individuals. The country has a rich tradition and culture that reflects the ethnic diversity of its population.

7. Ethnicity, Language, and Religion of Zimbabwe

The Shona and the Ndebele are the largest ethnic groups residing in the country. English, Shona, and Ndebele are the official languages of Zimbabwe. Around 13 minority languages have also been given the official status. Most Zimbabweans adhere to Christianity with the majority being Protestant Christians.

6. Cuisine of Zimbabwe

Cornmeal is a staple of the Zimbabwean diet. It is used to make the porridge-like bota which is flavored with peanut butter or butter and had for breakfast. Sadza is also prepared from cornmeal and consumed for lunch or dinner. It is also similar to bota but thicker. Sadza is served with vegetables, meat, and beans. Meat can be stewed, roasted, grilled, or sundried. Boerewors, a type of pork or beef sausage, is eaten frequently. Chicken and rice meals are also widely consumed. Braaied (barbecued) meat is popular during celebrations. The influence of the British colonization can still be observed in the culinary habits of the Zimbabweans. They have tea at midday and the 4 o'clock tea as well. Occasionally, they also have tea after dinner.

5. Clothing in Zimbabwe

Today, most Zimbabweans wear modern, western-style clothing. Traditional clothes are worn on a daily-basis by only a small section of the population. Such dresses vary between ethnic groups. Usually, the dresses have bright colors and tribal patterns. Elaborate tribal headgears are often worn. Bright and showy beaded ornaments also accompany such dresses.

4. Literature and the Arts in Zimbabwe

Although Zimbabwe has a rich and age-old heritage of oral literature, written literary works were absent for most of the country's ancient history. It only developed after colonization of the land by the Europeans and the spread of the modern form of education in the country. The oral literature comprised of folk tales and legends, war stories and poems, heroic epics, historical accounts, etc. Many of the early writers of Zimbabwe made great efforts to produce the oral literature in the published form to preserve the country's history and culture for the future generations. Today, Zimbabwean writers and poets explore various literary genres and produce publications that are often praised internationally.

Traditional crafts in Zimbabwe include basketry, carving, jewelry, pottery, etc. Stools carved from a single piece of wood and woven baskets with symmetrical patterns are among the most famous handicrafts of the country. The sculptures made by the Shona people have earned worldwide fame. These sculptures are made of soapstone or other harder igneous rocks.

3. Performance Arts in Zimbabwe

The music scene of Zimbabwe is rich and varied. It ranges from folk music to pop and rock. Music has played a very significant role in the history of the country. Some of the traditional instruments used to produce the folk music of the country include hosho, ngoma drums, and mbira. Music has always been an integral part of the religious rites of the Zimbabweans and often used to call on ancestral spirits. Music also played an important role in portraying the people's desire for freedom from colonial rule. Zimbabwean jazz, sungura, Tuku music, Chimurenga music, etc., are some of the most popular musical genres in Zimbabwe.

2. Sports in Zimbabwe

Football is the most popular sport in the country. It is played both professionally and informally in the cities and villages throughout the nation. The national football team of Zimbabwe has won several international championships like the Southern Africa championship. Rugby and cricket are also popular sports played in Zimbabwe. The national rugby and cricket teams are quite successful. Other games played in the country include volleyball, netball, water polo, chess, cycling, squash, swimming, horse racing, kayaking, etc.

1. Life in the Zimbabwean Society

Although the Constitution of the country grants equal rights to both men and women, gender-based discrimination in the country is not uncommon. There are complaints that the law of the country is often more in favor of men than women, especially in areas of inheritance, marriage, and the conditions of part-time work. Although a significant section of the women in urban areas receive education and enter the workforce, those in rural areas are still confined to the traditional roles. Although both men and women take part in agricultural activities in the villages, women are also expected to perform the household chores and take care of the children. In urban areas, a significant percentage of women participate in the workforce. However, men predominate in the political and administrative fields.

Marriages in Zimbabwe are based on both individual choice and family arrangements. However, the former is growing in popularity. Polygamous marriages are not uncommon but are gradually decreasing in number due to the higher costs of maintaining more wives and children. Most ethnic groups are associated with patrilocal residence where the bride moves in with the husband's family. Matrilocal residence can be seen in the case of the Tonga people. In urban areas, nuclear families are more common. Brideprice is usually paid by the groom to the bride's family in exchange of their daughter. Divorces are not encouraged and often viewed as a stigma, especially for women.

Households vary in size from extended in rural areas to nuclear in the urban areas. In polygynous families, each wife lives with her children in a small dwelling within a large compound owned by the husband. Men usually rule the household. The eldest person in the family is also highly respected and his or her words are regarded as wise. A woman gathers respect as she ages and through her children. Inheritance is patrilineal in most cases and the property passes from the father to the sons.

Children are the primary responsibility of the mother. Other female relatives including older sisters also participate in childcare. Since children in the large Zimbabwean households are rarely alone, they learn social values, customs, and rituals from their family and community members from an early age. Gender-based tasks are taught to the girls and boys from the age of about seven or eight.

Education is valued but quality education is more easily accessible in urban than in rural areas. Also, fewer girls than boys receive the opportunity to complete school.

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The southern African nation of Zimbabwe has a rich culture and diverse culture. Learn more about the cuisine, language, arts, religion, etc. of Zimbabwe.

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For my artifact I have chosen a news article about a recent event in Zimbabwe. This article talks about the recent agriculture changes that have taken place in Zimbabwe. The economy isn't growing as much as it should because the agricultural output is getting lower. The main sectors that have impacted Zimbabwe's lack of growth are fishing, agriculture, forestry, manufacturing, mining, and retail trade. The 2024 El Nino drought also played a role in Zimbabwe's issue. It caused food prices to rise and issues with hydroelectric power, which is still relevant today. Overall, these problems are leading to an increased amount of poverty and struggles within the country. This artifact has added to my knowledge of Zimbabwe by giving me a detailed look into how its economy is functioning and why there is a high poverty issue there.

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Minor economic growth in Zimbabwe as agricultural output shrinks - NewZimbabwe.com

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Spread This NewsBy Farmers Weekly ZIMBABWE’S economy expanded by 2.9% in 2024, according to the latest figures released by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat). It is reported that the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector contracted by a steep 18.12%, mainly due to the El Niño-induced drought. The El Niño-induced drought in 2024 severely impacted

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This is an article that talks about women's rights in Zimbabwe. It explains that in the last few decades there has been major improvements with women's rights. For example, the Constitution of Zimbabwe states that men and women are equal. There are also many pieces of legislation that protect women and girls such as banning marital rape. Zimbabwe has a high rate of child marriage so one of the goals for the country is to end child marriage by 2030. Women are also underrepresented in the government so there are organizations that are helping empower women and train them to successfully run for a government position. I did not know anything about Zimbabwe before reading this story. Reading this article has helped me better understand women's lives in Zimbabwe.

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Women’s Rights in Zimbabwe: On the Road to Progress - Global Poverty

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While discrimination is present in political, economic and social structures, major strides to strengthen women’s rights in Zimbabwe occur.

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This news story recognizes thousands of informal workers in the capital of Zimbabwe, Harare. These workers have taken it upon themselves to take scrap metal from illegal dumpsites. Harare generates about 1,000 tons of waste every day, most of which goes uncollected. This causes pollution and makes the area more dangerous for its inhabitants. Fortunately, the workers sift through the dumpsites to find scrap metal helping the environment and helping them pay for their family's needs. After reading this news story I found that Zimbabwe has a lot of people who make their living through informal work. I also find it interesting how they have so many people doing informal work and so much scrap metal at the same time. This helps me better understand the work culture and society of Zimbabwe.

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Zimbabwe’s scrap metal hunters are quietly fighting climate change one piece at a time

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In Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, thousands of informal workers collect scrap metal from illegal dumpsites to survive

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The article from Blue Green Atlas gives a detailed look at the geography of Zimbabwe. It explains that Zimbabwe has different kinds of land, including highlands, middle areas, and lowlands. It also talks about important natural features like the Great Dyke Hills, which run through the country, and Lake Kariba, one of the largest man made lakes in the world. The article describes major rivers like the Zambezi and Limpopo that flow through the country and are important for water and farming. By learning about these geographical features, I understand how the land and climate shape the way people live and farm in different parts of the country. This helps me see how Zimbabwe’s natural environment plays a big role in its culture and daily life.

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Blue Green Atlas - The Geography of Zimbabwe

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Geography and Travel guide which describes the landscape, nature and climate of Zimbabwe

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This article reconizes the poverty in Zimbabwe, and explores how inequality and economic hardship, (poverty) have evolved in recent years. It points out that low-quality jobs, slow urbanization, the pandemic, and other things are the causes of the increase of poverty. This article also includes how to possibly lower the poverty rate, like increasing the market orientation of agriculture, crop production, and even better social assistances. I gained a better understanding of Zimbabwe and its poverty problem through this article. Being in poverty and having the strength and knowledge to try and fix it despite hardships is something admirable. My knowledge of what exactly is the problem creating poverty,how they are living through it, and how they are trying to better it has drastically changed my perspective.

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Reversing the Tide: Reducing Poverty and Boosting Resilience in Zimbabwe

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Zimbabwe made significant progress along many dimensions in the 2010s. The average child born in Zimbabwe in 2019 is expected to have a higher endowment of human capital at the age of 18 than his/her peers, even those born in some of Zimbabwe’s richer neighbors.

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This article is quite different from most things, is a look at the pass through the lenses of an old lady remembering how it was being a teenager in the 70s and 80s, period when the story of Nervous conditions happens. It doesn't try to pretend bad things didn't happen or are not affecting today, at the start mentions the trouble history of the country and the social economic issues. But before going deeper into that it talks about all the things teenagers could do the pools she went, the beaches to see and swim in the ocean the places to eat and see, talks about the nature and its beauty. But also, about the racial inequality and how indigenous people were hired as servants with almost slave conditions within some cases living in a "Kaya" which is "a small dark little hut or house with a bunkbed and fireplace ... and a makeshift shower" with just cold water, but when becoming Zimbabwe things change for better. talks about how a lot of the people with servants forgot where they came from with a big number of them being poor or just ordinary people that gain bigger and better opportunities coming to the country. This articles reminds us that even if a country is not in is best today, there was a time where for some people was a home and was amazing, even if at that same time it was horrible for others, as someone who comes from a country in a really bad socioeconomic condition for the past 2-3 decades (longer than my life) we need to remember the good and simple some times to smile more.

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Jacarandas, Golden Arch & Gigantic Rats: A Trip Down Memory Lane In 70s/80s Zimbabwe

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Born in Harare, Zimbabwe and residing in Zimbabwe from the 1960s up until the 1980s, my Mum Isobel has told me numerous colourful stories…

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This article explains how Zimbabwe has an overpopulation of elephants, with the second-largest population in the world. The main point of the article is to bring awareness and justify the killing of around 50 elephants to help maintain the valley. The meat from the killed elephants would be donated to impoverished communities, and the ivory would be kept by the state. There have been many attempts in the past to relocate the elephants, but none seem to work, and just cause extreme damage to the environment. This helped change my understanding of Zimbabwe and the conditions many of its citizens have to endure, and rely heavily on the government.

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Zimbabwe to kill dozens of elephants and distribute meat to people

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Zimbabwe has announced that dozens of its elephants will be killed to control the population size and the meat from the carcasses will be distributed to people.

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This article gives insight into what rights women have in Zimbabwe today. Back in the 1960's, women in Zimbabwe started fighting for their rights. This article discusses that in modern day Zimbabwe, women hold 28.9% of seats in parliament, but there are still a lot of things that need to be changed including focusing on violence against women, the age girls are being married off at, and the gender pay gap. This article also goes into a breakdown of what Zimbabwe is performing high and low at when it comes to women's equality. This article has added to my knowledge as I was unaware of the issues women faced in Zimbabwe and what was being done to help solve them.

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Africa

Globally, some progress on women's rights has been achieved. In Zimbabwe, as of February 2024, 28.9% of seats in parliament were held by women. In 2015, 84.8% of women of reproductive age (15-49 years) had their need for family planning satisfied with modern methods.

However, work still needs to be done in Zimbabwe to achieve gender equality. 66.7% of legal frameworks that promote, enforce and monitor gender equality under the SDG indicator, with a focus on violence against women, are in place. 33.7% of women aged 20-24 years old who were married or in a union before age 18. The adolescent birth rate is 86.8 per 1,000 women aged 15-19 as of 2021, down from 107.91 per 1,000 in 2017. In 2018, 18.2% of women aged 15-49 years reported that they had been subject to physical and/or sexual violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months.

As of Dec-20, only 46.7% of indicators needed to monitor the SDGs from a gender perspective were available, with gaps in key areas, in particular: unpaid care and domestic work and key labour market indicators, such as the gender pay gap. In addition, many areas - such as gender and poverty, physical and sexual harassment, women's access to assets (including land), and gender and the environment - lack comparable methodologies for reguar monitoring. Closing these gender data gaps is essential for achieving gender-related SDG commitments in Zimbabwe.

Gender data gaps and country performance

For this score, we use the 72 gender-specific SDG indicators in the Women Count Data Hub's SDG Dashboard for the 193 UN Member States. For each indicator, we calculate the 33rd and 66th percentiles of the distribution and, based on those two values, countries are classified as belonging to high performance, medium performance and low performance categories. For more details, see the methodological note and the article "We now have more gender-related SDG data than ever, but is it enough?"

Low performance

Medium performance

High performance

Missing data

Average region score - Africa

Economic

Inclusive development, shared prosperity and decent work

Social

Social protection, poverty and freedom from violence, stigma & stereotypes

1.3.1 Proportion of mothers with newborns receiving maternity cash benefit.

3.1.1 Maternal mortality ratio (Per 100,000 live births).

3.7.2 Adolescent birth rate (per 1,000 women aged 15-19 years).

5.2.1 Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls subjected to physical and/or sexual violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months. Age 15-49.

5.3.1 Proportion of women aged 20-24 years who were married or in a union before age 18 (%)

Before age 15.

Before age 18.

Political

Political participation, accountability and gender-responsive institutions

5.1.1 Legal frameworks that promote, enforce and monitor gender equality (percentage of achievement, 0 - 100)

Area 1: overarching legal frameworks and public life

Area 2: violence against women

Area 3: employment and economic benefits

Area 4: marriage and family

5.5.1

Proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments (% of total number of seats)

Proportion of elected seats held by women in deliberative bodies of local government

5.5.2

Proportion of women in managerial positions

Proportion of women in senior and middle management positions

5.c.1 Proportion of countries with systems to track and make public allocations for gender equality and women's empowerment.

Environmental

Environmental conservation, protection and rehabilitation

3.9.1 Age-standardized mortality rate attributed to household air pollution (deaths per 100,000 population).

6.1.1 Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services, by urban/rural.

7.1.2 Proportion of population with primary reliance on clean fuels and technology.

Gender-specific indicators

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The Great Zimbabwe started in the 11 century and it was a city built on stone. It was a city that helped shaped the growth of other towns to grow. The Great Zimbabwe includes the Hill Complex, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Enclosure. All of the monuments were made by some kind of stone. Within these structures include a religious burial site. Throughout history archaeologists have found artifacts to help understand how the people in that time lived, interacted, and worked. The Zimbabwe people lived off of farming for living and source of food. There are still new findings that are still be discovered to learn about during that era. The link helped me understand the knowledge of Zimbabwe is that it showed me more in depth what others have found themselves about what hey've discovered, they lived to farmed, stone carved, and trading routes with others. It as well showed me the people of Zimbabwe's traditions and their culture that still goes on today.

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The archaeological site of Great Zimbabwe is an extensive remnant of a dry-stone walled ancient African city occupied between the eleventh and seventeenth centuries. The site was the capital of the Zimbabwe state, which exerted its influence over much of the Zimbabwean plateau. The central and built-up area of the site covers approximately 80 hectares, making Great Zimbabwe the largest of more than 500 stone-walled sites scattered across the present-day countries of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, and South Africa. At its peak, the city housed a population of around 20,000 people, whose economic life revolved around such activities as animal husbandry, crop cultivation, weaving, iron smelting, copper and gold working, and the trade of gold and ivory on the coast of the Indian Ocean. Great Zimbabwe was the heart of a thriving empire that inspired the economies of other settlements across southern Africa.

The site has three main areas: the Hill Complex, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Enclosures. These are characterized by dry-stone walled construction but also include dhaka (adobe) structures. The dry-stone walls were constructed from granite blocks gathered from the exposed rock of the surrounding hills. Since this rock naturally splits into even slabs and can be broken into portable sizes, it provided a convenient and readily available building resource. The Hill Complex consists of freestanding walls forming enclosures on the hill summit, while the slopes are terraced on the western and southern ends to create habitation spaces. The Hill Complex can be accessed from the south via a route now referred to as the "ancient path" and from the west via the "watergate path." Below the Hill Complex is a valley, which has a cluster of enclosures of varying sizes known as the Valley Enclosures.

To the south is the Great Enclosure, a stunning architectural marvel that is the single largest precolonial built structure in sub-Saharan Africa. The circular outer wall has a circumference of approximately 252 meters and a maximum height of 11 meters; it also exhibits the best construction technique at Great Zimbabwe, characterized by rectangular blocks laid in relatively even and level courses. The sizes of the blocks are consistent with those in other parts of the site. The walls have a wide base of up to six meters and taper to an apex width of three meters. The outer wall of the Great Enclosure encircles a number of smaller enclosures, house floor remains, and an enigmatic structure known as the Conical Tower; the outer wall also forms a parallel passage with an inner wall from the northeastern entrance to the Conical Tower.

In addition to the walled areas, Great Zimbabwe also comprises sites of spiritual and religious significance, such as the Chisikana Spring, the Mujejeje (the ritual entrance), and several sacred hills. The Chisikana Spring is at the head of the Chisikana Stream, which once flowed into the Musahagashe River now covered by Lake Mutirikwi. The spring is considered sacred by local communities owing to its association with their foundation myths. Physically, the Mujejeje is a linear-intrusive vein of quartz exposed on a granite outcrop, making a narrow bar ridge. It is 7.8 meters long and 6 centimeters wide. This geological manifestation was expropriated by the locals as a control point for visitors entering and exiting Great Zimbabwe.

Archaeological research has resulted in the recovery of numerous objects associated with the site's settlement, and these have aided in the reconstruction of the settlement's history and organization. Such artifacts include local pottery, imported ceramics, soapstone carvings, glass beads, gold foil, ceramic discs used as weights in the spinning of cotton, and remains of animal bone. The site's architectural layout and material culture have been key in the reconstruction of the settlement history and the understanding of Great Zimbabwe's economic, social, and political organization. Radiocarbon dates and imported materials such as glass beads and porcelain suggest that the site was occupied between the eleventh and seventeenth centuries.

The most famous and iconic works associated with Great Zimbabwe are eight carved soapstone birds, commonly referred to as the Zimbabwe birds, that were found within the site. The birds surmount columns more than a meter tall and are themselves on average 40 centimeters tall. The sculptures combine human and avian elements, with human features like lips substituting for beaks and five-toed feet for claws. Six of the sculptures came from the Eastern Enclosure of the Hill Complex. One was recovered in the Western Enclosure, and another from inside the Central Valley ruins of the Valley Enclosures. Scholars have suggested that the birds served as status and religious symbols and are emblematic of royal authority. In addition to the birds, other soapstone objects recovered at the site include pendants, embellished columns, smoking pipes, ingot molds, figurines, and bowls adorned with different animals and other motifs. Archaeological evidence dates the earliest production of both utilitarian and nonutilitarian soapstone creations to earlier than the eleventh century. The deep history of soapstone carving at Great Zimbabwe inspired a network of twentieth-century sculptors, including Henry Munyardzi and Sylvester Mubayi, to produce works in the same medium ( 2024.81.1; 2024.81.2; 2024.81.3; 2024.81.4; 2024.81.5; 2024.81.6).

The economic life of the capital has been reconstructed from the multiple objects and ethnographies associated with the site. The recovery of faunal remains attest to the importance of both domesticated and wild animals in the economy of the state. Cattle, in particular, were a key source of wealth and could also be used as draft power in the cultivation of crops. Other domestic livestock included goats and sheep. In addition to being a source of nutrition, wild animals were exploited for their skins, ivory, and use as trophies, all of which could be exchanged with traders. Crop cultivation was equally important, and archaeological research has led to the recovery of charred sorghum, evidence of that cereal's presence at Great Zimbabwe. Other crops that were cultivated include pearl millet and finger millet.

The smelting of metals such as iron and copper at Great Zimbabwe is demonstrated by the presence of ores, slags, and tuyeres from as early as the fifth century. Multiple crucibles recovered from the site were used to melt gold, copper, bronze, and brass. Metal production resulted in the manufacture of both utilitarian and decorative objects. Some of the utilitarian objects include spears, hoes, arrowheads, and axes. Decorative items include bangle heads and bracelets made from different metals. The presence of exploitable sources of iron, copper, and gold within a variable distance of the site was also a key factor in the development of the metal industry at Great Zimbabwe.

The material culture described thus far does not include works made from wood primarily because that medium is susceptible to decay and doesn't survive well in the archaeological record. However, nineteenth- and twentieth-century objects preserved in museums such as The Met and similar objects still in use in descendant communities of the Shona peoples offer a sense of the range of carved wooden creations that might have been used at the site. The Met collection includes several examples of nineteenth- and twentieth-century wooden headrests from Zimbabwe related to those that were likely in use at Great Zimbabwe ; ; . The headrests were hand-carved from indigenous wood and often have a shell disk design known as ndoro, which is believed to be connected to one's spirit. The headrest is thought to hold spiritual power and invoke dreams. The practice of sheathing headrests with metal, particularly gold, was common in the region and was most likely associated with the elites at Great Zimbabwe. Other utilitarian objects such as hoes, axes ; , spears, and other tools ordinarily had wooden handles, though only the metal component is recovered from the archaeological record.

Analyzing these material and architectural remains gives us an incredibly complex picture of the development of Great Zimbabwe. First settled in the eleventh century, it rose to economic prominence between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries. During that time, it commanded trade networks that extended from the Zimbabwe Plateau to the Indian Ocean and offered residents access to imported items in the form of glass beads and glazed ceramics. That trade economy complemented thriving local industries that included soapstone carving, metal smelting, and animal husbandry. The influence of Great Zimbabwe began to decline in the late fifteenth century in favor of the increasingly powerful Khami state to the southwest.

While a great deal of information has been generated about Great Zimbabwe from past research, significant gaps remain that contemporary scholars seek to fill. Current excavations at the site, led by Shadreck Chirikure from the University of Oxford, aim to apply archaeological sciences to answer some of the pertinent questions about the lifeways of the people at Great Zimbabwe. These include refining our understanding of the plant economy and craft production techniques and processing. Scholars are also focusing on Great Zimbabwe's hinterland as an important step toward understanding local and regional networks in the wider region of southern Africa. The application of local Shona concepts that had hitherto been largely ignored in the interpretation of Great Zimbabwe is also important in any attempt to understand the site.

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Great Zimbabwe - The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Great Zimbabwe's architectural layout and material culture have been key in understanding the site's settlement history and economic, social, and political organization.

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This article explains different aspects of the culture in Zimbabwe such as the history, languages, society, and education. Zimbabwe is a country that was colonized by the British so many Zimbabweans speak English. English is taught in schools as well. The largest ethic group is the Shona people who comprise 80% of the population, and the most common religion practiced is Christianity. The British had a significant influence on the people of Zimbabwe. This is shown through English and Christianity becoming popular in the country. The native language Shona is spoken and most older people speak Shona while younger people may not be fluent due to globalization. Zimbabwe prides itself in being one of the most educated countries in Africa. Since 1992, the literacy rate has been over 90%. However, the country suffered terribly from HIV/AIDS around 1990-2022. This is unfortunate but the country has persevered through difficult times. The government was ruled by President Robert Mugabe for almost 40 years. The economy and infrastructure were poor under his rule. President Mugabe resigned in 2017. Since then, Zimbabwe is navigating a democratic government with President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Additionally, the people of Zimbabwe are known for being well-mannered and respectful toward their elders. They remember their ancestors by passing down a totem. Elders tell their children about the family totem which is usually an animal or object. This article enhances my idea of the story Nervous Conditions because the author did not like her brother because he was rude and he was not proud of his culture. Reading this article helps me understand that Zimbabweans value their propriety and tradition.

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Nina Evason,

Zimbabwe (formerly known as Rhodesia and southern Rhodesia) is a country in southern Africa, bordering South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia and Botswana. It is mostly populated by the Shona people, the majority of whom are Christian. However, the country also has a great diversity of languages, communities, beliefs and customs. The dominant culture of Zimbabwe has significantly changed from its traditional form under the influence of British colonisation, technology and contemporary social pressures. While some Zimbabweans in rural areas continue to practise and maintain traditional customs and beliefs, they represent a relatively small segment of the population. Today, for many Zimbabweans the value of the British education system, Christianity and economic prosperity has taken priority over certain cultural practices. This being said, social etiquette and identity are still deeply informed by the traditional social structures and conventions of tribal groups. Most Zimbabweans maintain deep respect for and connection to their ancestors and heritage, despite urban migration and globalisation.

Ethnic Groups and Languages

The indigenous people of Zimbabwe trace back to Bantu origins and are believed to have populated the land for more than 10 centuries. The Shona and Ndebele people are the two biggest ethnicities. The Shona form the majority of the population - approximately 80%. They traditionally have a strong regional clan structure, with six main groups: the Manyika, the Ndau, the Zezuru, the Karanga, the Korekore and the Rozvi. These groups are formed on the basis of linguistic and cultural similarities. The Ndebele comprise roughly 14% of the population and have two main tribal groups: the Ndebele and Kalanga. Smaller ethnic groups include the Venda, the Batonga/Balonka and the Shangani/Shangane people. Some white Zimbabweans (mainly of British origin) remain in the country and there are also some Asian communities in the cities. However, both these groups make up less than 1% of the population. Most white Zimbabweans migrated when the country achieved independence from British rule.

Almost all Zimbabweans can speak a native Bantu language, with Shona being the most widely spoken. Zezuru, Kalanga, Manyika and Ndau are the four main dialects of Shona that have a common vocabulary and similar tonal and grammatical features. However, English is used in government, administration, schooling and higher education. Hence, many Zimbabweans also speak English expertly. Urban Zimbabweans can generally alternate between Shona and English fluidly; however, some of the younger generation may be less fluent in their native tongue and need to substitute some Shona words with English words.

Social Changes

Zimbabwe achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1980, following decades of British colonisation. The effects of colonisation remain imprinted on aspects of society. This is especially visible in the widespread use of English, the adoption of Christianity and associated Christian family values. Colonial impact has left a dualism in the practices and values of Zimbabweans. For example, the country operates under a twofold legal system incorporating both traditional law and Roman Dutch Law. Traditional chiefs enforce traditional law whereas Roman Dutch Law is the conventional law. Both legal systems are legitimate and any decision made independently by them is legally binding.

Increased urbanisation and globalisation have also influenced the traditional culture of Zimbabwe. Pop culture and the Internet have introduced ideas of personal and individual choice, leading some to value those new ideas over societal obligation and communal organisation. Young people in particular are challenging ideas of the cultural hierarchy. Furthermore, while traditional Zimbabwean culture takes quite a fluid approach to timekeeping, the growing population living in the larger cities is becoming more time-bound. Many native Zimbabweans see these changes posing a negative effect on the traditional family and social structures. Others would argue that access and exposure to technology has enhanced their practices to suit the contemporary environment. Either way, the globalisation of cities has created a power imbalance between urban dwellers and rural dwellers. Most rural households are partly or totally dependent on the remittances sent back by a family member in an urban area.

Zimbabwean society has also been significantly changed by immediate social pressures and necessity. President Robert Mugabe and his ruling party held power undemocratically for almost 40 years since independence. Under this leadership, the economy and infrastructure deteriorated, and political freedom and dissent was suppressed. In 2017, Mugabe was pressured to resign in a historic turn of events following a coup that ended his dictatorship. His removal from power has given many Zimbabweans a renewed sense of hope. Nevertheless, the country now faces a transitional period as it continues to struggle with massive inflation that has impoverished many and hinders social mobility. HIV/AIDS has also devastated communities. In 2009, it was estimated that 1.3 million children have been orphaned by AIDS in Zimbabwe. ¹ Indeed, it is worth noting that the population is very young, meaning that the effects of these problems are felt most acutely by adolescents. Almost 60% of the population is under 25 years of age and almost 37.8% are 14 years old or younger. 2

Social Hierarchy

There is also a strong cultural hierarchy of respect based on age that affects all interactions in Zimbabwe. Those who are older are presumed to be superior, wiser and more knowledgeable. Hence, heightened respect should be shown to elders. One is expected to always allow their opinion to prevail, never argue with them and never answer back. Expect social situations to be slightly segregated by age whereby children are noticeably excluded from jokes and 'adult conversations'.

Zimbabweans are generally status-conscious as the differences between social classes are also quite noticeable. People tend to be quite proud of their achievements and show off their wealth. Compliments about someone's wealth are more likely to boost their confidence than make them feel awkward. The way people dress and eat can also be a social indicator between those that are impoverished, those that work in agriculture and live in rural areas, and those that live in the cities. Zimbabweans generally identify themselves by their region of birth when getting acquainted with someone, as this implies their linguistic background and, in some cases, their social attitudes and politics.

Zimbabweans take deep pride in the educational standards of their country. According to UNESCO, 91.75% of Zimbabwean youths are literate while the adult literacy rate is 86.87%. ³ One's education level and English proficiency are often seen as the pathway to foreign exposure, travel and employment outside of agriculture. It is also thought to indicate good family background and wealth. Despite varying political opinions, many Zimbabweans remained proud of the fact that their long-term President (Robert Mugabe) was the most educated in Africa.

Origins and Ancestry

Zimbabweans generally have an innate awareness of their ancestors that follows them throughout their life and keeps them grounded. Traditionally, it was believed that their spirits could be communicated with to provide guidance (see Traditional Beliefs under Religion for more information on this). They were deeply revered and worshipped. Today, Christian churches in Zimbabwe generally frown upon ancestor worship and discourage people from calling on the spirits. However, some Zimbabweans living mostly in rural areas (including Christians) have continued the tradition. Though there is a reduced belief in the spiritual realm and the ability of ancestors to intervene with life, one's heritage remains crucial to Zimbabweans' concept of personal identity.

Zimbabweans learn of their origin through stories told by elders; everyone's origin is connected to the original province that their people came from centuries ago. Every person also has a totem (mutupo) that represents their heritage, bloodline, origin and identity. Someone who does not know their totem is considered 'lost', for it means they do not know their identity. Totems are usually animals (e.g. a zebra or buffalo); however, they can also be objects (e.g. a leg). They are passed down through the father's lineage the way a surname is carried through a family in the English-speaking West. In this way, two people with the same totem can be forbidden from marrying as it is seen in a similar light to incest.

Traditional Customs

Zimbabwean tribes and communities are traditionally collectivistic. People tend to put their group or family's interests before their own, receiving support, protection and a sense of belonging in return. There is a great emphasis on communal gathering within tribes, where people share stories, music, songs and dance. Indeed, Zimbabwean culture has a long tradition of storytelling and folklore that provides each generation with a sense of connection to their history and ancestors. These stories also provide communities with a unified understanding of their group's origins. Storytelling gatherings may be accompanied with theatrical and musical performances.

Music and dance are also central to Zimbabwean culture. The traditional sounds, rhythms and instruments are distinctive and showcase the colour, creativity, spirit and joy of the Zimbabwean people. The ' mbira' (a piece of wood with metal keys) has a light, warm, acoustic sound and is used in most celebrations. The mbira may be used to contact spirits, govern the weather and chase away sickness (among other purposes) and can be considered sacred in some communities.

There are many other rituals and ceremonial practices in Zimbabwe. Some are specific to certain tribes whilst others are more widely practised. Many relate to celebrating milestones in people's lives, such as marriage, the installation of chiefs or the circumcision ceremony that marks a boy's transition to manhood. Traditional ceremonies, festivals and rituals also usually involve contacting the spirit world and making offerings (see Traditional Beliefs under for more information on this). However, it should be noted that many urbanised Zimbabweans do not believe in the spirit realm, especially among those in Australia.

Politeness and Tsika

Zimbabweans are often observed as being very warm, welcoming and engaging. They are also quite formal and non-confrontational. People generally seek to appease and avoid any disagreement or friction that could offend someone's honour. Hence, Zimbabweans may be overly accommodating of other people's opinions or reluctant to speak their mind if they feel their honesty could embarrass others. This is partly because there is a strong cultural value placed upon considerate behaviour, manners and politeness. One's manners are generally thought to reflect their integrity and quality as a person. Every distinct social and ethnic group in Zimbabwe has a particular model for what they consider to be correct and polite decorum. For example, the largest group, the Shona, refer to one's knowledge and compliance with socially acceptable behaviour as 'tsika'.

Tsika is the virtuous, polite and moral way of behaving in accordance with Shona cultural standards. This involves being respectful to elders, obedient to parents and figures of authority, having self-control and patience, as well as observing cultural customs and the social structures in place. Often, there is a strong emphasis on communal values, warmth, prudence and considerate behaviour. The Shona see tsika as something one learns and develops in adolescence to eventually foster self-control. Someone who has been taught and raised well to have good manners is said to have 'hunhu' (in Shona) or 'ubuntu' (in Nbedele). Hunhu and ubuntu cannot be accurately translated into English, but they mean something similar to 'the essence of humanity/humaneness'.

The values that underpin the norms of etiquette vary between cultures. Hence, native Zimbabweans often think that 'varungu' (white people) do not have hunhu/ubuntu; this is because people outside of Zimbabwe often do not follow the same social rules that constitute tsika. For example, the English-speaking West doesn't give the same amount of reverence and respect to people based on their age. Someone who does not act according to the Zimbabwean code of politeness and social appropriateness is considered to be without manners - 'hanna tsika'.

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1 National Aids Council, 2010 2 CIA World Factbook, 2016

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Learn about the cultural concepts, history, demographics and social structures informing society

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The beginning of this article get you ready for the background information of Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe is in South Africa, with those who speak the language of Bantu.

The tribe San is the first inhabitants of Zimbabwe and were driven out by the Bantu people. They were driven into the Kalahari Desert. The article connects the reader into the European settlement history, Where Europeans thought to themselves to open the interior and make a route their eastern settlements to Angola. In October 1889, The British South Africa Company received charter. This encouraged certain promises in trade/ or return of protection and security right to tribal priest. Agriculture was slow and did not take place until 1907. This article has broadened my understanding of Zimbabwe and the different horizons that took place before the actual development of Zimbabwe. Its mind-blowing how the tribe of San people were ruled out, when they were the first to be there. This article highlights the European settlement which was the start of interaction with trades in Zimbabwe.

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Other articles where history of Zimbabwe is discussed: Zimbabwe: History: This discussion mainly focuses on the history of Zimbabwe since the late 15th century. For treatment of earlier periods and of the country in its regional context, see Southern Africa.

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Tsitsi Dangarembga, a Zimbabwean writer pushes for the revisiting of the historical narrative surrounding Zimbabwe. He emphasizes the historical culture and precolonial events. Often, historical writer will only detail the Zimbabwe's history as far back as the 1896 rebellion in Rhodesia. Dangarembga say's this ignores the 12th century's events such as the the disconnect between the name of the state and the historic narrative. The writer pushes for creative knowledge production in which the history of Zimbabwe can be depicted. One of the main things she highlights is the migration of people from West and Central Africa and how it paved the way for the societies along the way. Many more historical elements were lost along the depiction of Zimbabwe. To reclaim that part of history, Dangarembga recommends renaming systems to fit indigenous backgrounds, reducing ethnic indifference by sharing African cultural identities, and addressing inequalities as ongoing colonial legacies. This adds to my knowledge of Zimbabwe because I also am a victim to hearing about only certain parts of their rich history. I also learned many new aspects of their history, including how inequalities can be traced back to the colonies. Overall, I believe all countries' beginnings are the reason why their society is shaped the way it is so the author of this article helped me to finalize my decision in always going back to the roots of every country before shaping their cultures.

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Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study

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Unravelling the full history of the Shona subject: Who, how, if and, where to, after all that - STIAS webinar by Tsitsi Dangarembga – Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study

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“The work in revealing the history of the current situation in Zimbabwe tends to be done by political scientists. There has been no great desire to look further back than from when the first rebellion in Rhodesia took place in 1896, even thought the name Zimbabwe goes back to the 12th century state. Research tends … Unravelling the full history of the Shona subject: Who, how, if and, where to, after all that – STIAS webinar by Tsitsi Dangarembga Read More »

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Currently, in Zimbabwe, the leader is President Mnangagwa. Recently, he has been under a lot of fire from the people of the country. This is mainly because of the declining economy of Zimbabwe over the past years. He had become president due to a coup that overthrew the last president, and it now seems like he is scared of the same thing happening to him. He has removed both the Chief of Police and the head of the Zimbabwe intelligence service, as well as many other key military officials who have lost their positions. With many of the people of Zimbabwe unhappy with the political corruption and declining economy, it is speculated that a civil war could follow soon if a change is not made for the better of the country.

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Is Zimbabwe’s political crisis likely to escalate? – DW – 04/02/2025

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Tensions inside Zimbabwe’s ruling party have the potential to destabilize the southern African country. Analysts warn civil war could follow if party infighting is not resolved.

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This article talks about Zimbabwean history as one of achievement, complexity, and resilience, helping me understand that its people had a lively social structure, advanced economy, and rich culture long before colonization. It shifts the narrative from one of colonial dependence to one of pre-colonial autonomy and greatness.

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Zimbabwe’s Socio-Economic Evolution: From Pre-colonial Greatness to Post-colonial Struggles • Sociology.Institute

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This section delves into Zimbabwe’s rich historical context, starting from its early civilizations, symbolized by the Great Zimbabwe ruins, through British colonialism under Cecil Rhodes, to its independence in 1980. It highlights the socio-economic disparities inherited from colonial rule and the post-independence efforts to address these through policies focused on social and economic equity.

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This is a news article about an ongoing event in Zimbabwe. A Journalist named Faith Zaba was recently detained for posting a satirical article about the chair of the "SADC" department. She described them as a trade union of dictators. This adds to my knowledge about the country by showing me that basic rights are still denied. Despite the fact that Zimbabwe is democratic and has a Constitution that guarantees freedom of expression, it's clear that basic freedoms are being denied.

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Zimbabwe: Journalist detained for publishing a satirical column / IFJ

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The editor of the private weekly newspaper Zimbabwe Independent, Faith Zaba, was detained on 1 July in Harare over a satirical column. Zaba was charged with “undermining the authority of the President” on 2 July and remains in custody. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joins its affiliate, the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ), in condemning this outrageous abuse of power aimed solely at intimidating and silencing the media.

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This news story talks about a group of people from Zimbabwe who scrap metal that is illegally placed in junkyards and help reduce the emission of pollution in the air. This article goes into depth about how people see this job of getting their hands dirty and actually helping eliminate the burning of metals as one that can be seen as livable. There is a man who says he made $8 for a full day of scrapping this metal. He says that with that kind of money, he is able to provide for his family and kids. He puts them through school, pays the bills, all the necessary things to live a decent life. This article helped me put into perspective how lucky some of us have it in the U.S. Scrapping this metal isn't a fun job by any means. You're constantly filthy and don't get paid very much. However, he says that it is enough for his family, so he will continue to do it. It is also helping reduce pollution being released into the air, which is also a huge benefit for society.

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Zimbabwe’s scrap metal hunters are quietly fighting climate change one piece at a time

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In Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, thousands of informal workers collect scrap metal from illegal dumpsites to survive

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This news article by the BBC discusses the decision to abolish the death penalty in Zimbabwe. For a long time, the now President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been a critic of capital punishment in the country. Mnangagwa himself had been sentenced to death after blowing up a train during the guerrilla war for independence in the 1960s. The abolishment of the death penalty. established by the British rule during their colonization is seen as a “major milestone” for the country of Zimbabwe. Learning how a law from the colonial era has continued to stay shows me how the British continue to influence the Zimbabwe justice system even after independence. It has further helped me understand the lasting impact colonialism can still have.

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Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa approves law abolishing death penalty

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Amnesty International hails the decision as a “beacon of hope for the abolitionist movement”.

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This article discusses Zimbabwe marking national culture month in May 2025. It was announced that they would observe national culture month from May 1 to May 31, 2025, under the theme "Celebrating Indigenous Voices." The announcement was made by Jenfan Muswere, who stated that the initiative is to promote cultural heritage, diversity, and unity. This article adds to my knowledge of the country by showing me how much they're dedicated to their culture. It also shows how important the Indigenous people are considered to be throughout the country. The national culture month focused on different cultural aspects each week including a focus on traditional cooking methods and historical recipes the first week, an Indigenous Fashion week for the second week, the official national launch of the celebration for week three, and Indigenous Languages and Cultural Dialogue for week four.

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Zimbabwe will observe National Culture Month from May 1 to May 31, 2025, under the theme "Celebrating Indigenous Voices," following Cabinet approval of this year's programme.

The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere, made the announcement. He said the initiative is intended to promote cultural heritage, diversity, and unity, New Ziana reported.

"This initiative is aimed at celebrating our rich cultural heritage, promoting cultural diversity, and fostering national unity," Muswere stated.

Throughout May, Zimbabwe will observe National Culture Month with a structured weekly programme. The first week is set to focus on traditional cooking methods and historical recipes. During the second week, an Indigenous Fashion Week will highlight traditional clothing from various communities.

The third week will feature the official national launch of the celebration. The fourth week will centre on Indigenous Languages and Cultural Dialogue, which will include performances, poetry readings, film screenings, and language workshops.

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Zimbabwe to Mark National Culture Month in May 2025 - DNE Africa

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Zimbabwe will observe National Culture Month from May 1 to May 31, 2025, under the theme "Celebrating Indigenous Voices," following Cabinet approval of this

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In this article it talks about one of the most amazing geographical phenomena located in Zimbabwe... the Victoria Falls. This ongoing continuous waterfall is the largest waterfall in the world, according to the article. This waterfall serves as a border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is also known as the Mosi oa Tunya, which translates to "the smoke that thunders". These falls serve as beautiful tourist attracts and is home to many species of wildlife because of t nearby national parks. Victoria Falls adds to my knowledge of Zimbabwe, because I was not aware that this country had such an amazing landscape and was home to this majestic sanctuary. If you ever find yourself in the area, I highly recommend visiting.

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Victoria Falls - the smoke that thunders - Africa Geographic

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Victoria Falls, the smoke that thunders, is the world’s largest waterfall: a breathtaking African safari destination of myth, magic & romance

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The artifact that I chose is a recent article on the effects of the Fast-Track Land Reform Programme and how it has impacted both white and black farmers. This program initially targeted white farmers, where despite having legal ownership of their farms, they have been often violently displaced by war veterans or ZANU-PF loyalists. The article then goes on to talk about how over time even black farmers began to get their farms invaded usually due to their lack of ties to the ZANU-PF. The removal of a lot of these farmers has led to increased poverty and more and contributed to heightened economic decline. This article helps me better understand the current political climate of Zimbabwe today and how dangerous some places can be as well as some of the causes of the country's current socioeconomic state.

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White and Black farmers still bear the scars of Zimbabwe’s land grabs | Poverty and Development News | Al Jazeera

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This AP News story, "Zimbabwe's stone carvers seek a revival as an Oxford exhibition confronts a British colonial legacy," examines the ways in which traditional stone carving is being used by Zimbabwean artists to commemorate their culture and confront colonial history. The show, which is on display at Oxford University, features sculptures from the Chitungwiza Arts Centre that capture Zimbabwe's historic culture as well as its contemporary issues with the legacy of individuals such as Cecil Rhodes. I gained a deeper understanding of Zimbabwe's artistic traditions—particularly stonework, which is based on the meaning of the nation's name—and how they effectively convey resistance, historical memory, and cultural pride through art thanks to this artifact.

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Zimbabwe’s stone carvers seek a revival as an Oxford exhibition confronts a British colonial legacy

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A collection of Zimbabwean stone sculptures will be the centerpiece of an exhibition at Oxford University meant to “contextualize” the legacy of British colonialist Cecil John Rhodes.

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This article informs us about the harsh working conditions that men face to earn a living by cleaning scrap metal. Although the conditions of this job are dangerous, it helps their economy and environment. It informs us of the conditions in which these people live and work to survive. They generate thousands of waste that fund their economy. It adds to my knowledge of Zimbabwe by giving me an idea of what these men have to do to make ends meet for their families; it also emphasizes how small this country is, as $8 is enough to sustain a person's livelihood.

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HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) - "Any gold in there today?" Ezekiel Mabhiza called to a man hunched over a mound of trash, hoe in hand, rummaging through one of the many illegal dumpsites that scar Zimbabwe's capital.

Mabhiza joined in. For the next several hours, he scoured the sites around Harare, using a stick or his bare hands to sift through piles of filth, from discarded diapers to broken appliances. By midday, his pushcart was full. Springs from old mattresses, car parts, tin cans - it all added up to 66 kilograms (145 pounds) of salvaged metal.

The haul earned him $8. It's enough to feed his five children for the day, maybe even cover a utility bill in a country where the majority of people survive through informal work.

"I have given up looking for a formal job," the 36-year-old said. "You walk the industrial areas all day and come back with nothing. This is my job now. I pay rent, my children eat and go to school."

Across Harare, thousands like Mabhiza live off scrap metal. Quietly, they are helping to sustain a cleaner environment and combat climate change.

Making steel relies heavily on burning highly polluting coal, and the industry accounts for nearly 8% of the carbon dioxide emissions that come from the energy sector and contribute to Earth's warming, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, or OECD. It takes less energy to turn scrap metal into new steel, so the pickers are helping reduce carbon emissions with their work in addition to cleaning up metals that would otherwise pollute the city.

1,000 tons of waste per day

Harare generates about 1,000 tons of waste every day, most of which goes uncollected, according to the city council. People and companies frustrated with erratic collection dump trash on roadsides and open spaces. They sometimes burn it. Once-pristine neighborhoods have become polluted eyesores.

Recently, the city council partnered with a green energy waste management company to improve collection amid contested accusations of corruption. But for now, informal pickers like Mabhiza remain indispensable.

"It's a dirty job, yes, but people rarely understand how important it is," said Fungai Mataga, who runs a scrap metal collection center where Mabhiza and others sell their finds. "They are society's cleaning crew. Every piece of metal they bring here is one less item polluting our land."

Globally, this kind of scrap metal is vital to the steel industry, accounting for roughly a third of metallic raw materials used in steel production, according to the OECD.

With growing concerns over the environmental impact of mining and rising interest in circular economies, demand for recycled materials is increasing.

Informal pickers are the "unsung heroes," said Joyce Machiri, head of the mining and extractives program at the Zimbabwe Environmental Lawyers Association.

"When you look at scrap, no one would actually say, 'Wow, this a good job.' But look at it this way, these are some of the green jobs we are talking about," Machiri said.

Recycled metal is key for the steel industry

Many steelmakers cannot afford to invest in new, cleaner technologies. That makes scrap recycling a critical - and accessible - alternative.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that recycling steel and tin cans saves 60% to 74% of the energy required to produce them from raw materials.

Although there are no official statistics on the number of scrap metal collectors in Zimbabwe due to the informal nature of their work, they are unmistakable.

In Hopley, a poor township in Harare, they streamed into a dusty open lot where they sell their scrap. Some pushed carts. Others carried sacks on their heads. One woman brought a small plastic bag with just enough metal to earn a few cents to buy vegetables for dinner.

Inside the yard, heaps of junk like old fridges, microwaves, cups, water heater tanks, generators and car engines were weighed on a giant old scale. Workers handed out cash and loaded the metal onto a 30-ton truck destined for a steelmaker that will buy it for between $220 and $260 a ton.

Factories in the southern African country of 16 million people consume about 600,000 tons of scrap metal annually, all locally collected, said Dosman Mangisi, chief operations officer of the Zimbabwe Institute of Foundries, an association of metal casting businesses.

Tough and dangerous job: 'I hope I can afford gloves one day'

The job of hunting scrap metal is grueling and hazardous. Hunters rise before dawn, walking kilometers to scavenge from landfills, industrial zones, homes and roadside dumps. Some sleep near illegal dumpsites, waiting for trucks that unload waste overnight to avoid arrest.

"I have been lucky not to fall sick," said Lovemore Sibanda, a security guard who collects scrap on his days off. "But I am always worried. I hope I can afford gloves one day."

Metal hunters such as Mabhiza and Sibanda have seen it all, from medical waste such as syringes and expired medicines to rotting carcasses of pets such as dogs and cats thrown away by their owners.

"At first, I would lose my appetite for days after seeing things like that," said Sibanda. "Now, I am used to it. This is my office. This is where the money is."

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For more on Africa and development: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-pulse

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The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. For global health and development coverage in Africa, the AP receives financial support from the Gates Foundation. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at .

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organization for economic co-operation and development

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Zimbabwe's scrap metal hunters are quietly fighting climate change one piece at a time

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In Zimbabwe's capital, Harare, thousands of informal workers collect scrap metal from illegal dumpsites to survive.

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For my artifact i've chosen an article about Zimbabwe's heavy reliance on their agriculture. Agriculture is super important for Zimbabwe as it is their main export. Tobacco, cotton, corn, and sugar are some of the crops that are grown in Zimbabwe and exported to give the country most of their money. In "Nervous Conditions" that we read in class, I got to see how important agriculture, especially corn really was to them and how it's a huge thing culturally. The narrator mentioned in the text the "maize year" and how agriculture was their main source of income. In the article it states that" Corn is Zimbabwe’s principal food crop". They produce millions of metric tons and that explains why it was mentioned so often in the text.

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International Trade Administration | Trade.gov

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This is a best prospect industry sector for this country. Includes a market overview and trade data for agriculture and agricultural machinery.

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This article talks about the rituals and holidays that some Zimbabwe's participate in. It talks about how some Zimbabwe households are unable to hold rites for their dead relatives due to financial reasons. Holding these rituals is said to bring blessings to the family, but when you hold them off for too long a curse may result. According to the article, the tombstone unveilings are taken very seriously and can even be a business boon for people who cater toward people of this belief. Some people view this unveiling ceremony more importantly then Christmas itself. They spend vast amounts of money, some even in the thousands, in order to give their dead relatives worthy ceremonies. Chipo Benhure, someone who has honored her dead mother through this ritual, says that honoring the dead brings peace to the living, no matter what religion they follow. This gives me more perspective on the country of Zimbabwe and how different beliefs don't always clash, but add to the richness of life.

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It’s the holidays in Zimbabwe. Time to celebrate by unveiling a family tombstone

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Some of the most festive times of Zimbabwe’s holiday season occur around the unveiling of tombstones for late relatives.

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This study mainly focuses on the soapstone bird sculptures of Zimbabwe. They are mainly found in Great Zimbabwe, the ancient city of Zimbabwe. It once stood in the 11th century as an African kingdom symbol showcasing their power. There were 8 birds and they served as national treasures even being showcased on their nation flag and coat of arms which cements them as a part of Zimbabwean heritage. They are not just artwork but symbols of identity and prize for them.

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This photo show what typical rural homestead in Zimbabwe looks like — small round huts with thatched roofs, surrounded by open land and fields. Seeing this helped me get a better picture of the kind of place Tambu and her family might’ve lived in Nervous Conditions.

It’s one thing to read about farming and carrying water, but seeing the actual layout makes it more real. It also says a lot about how family life was organized — several huts close together hint at extended families living side by side, sharing chores and land. It helps me better understand why education and getting out of the homestead was such a big deal in the story. It just makes the setting feel more alive and helps me understand the cultural backdrop of the novel a lot better.

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Traditional Zimbabwean Clay Pots and Reed Artifacts

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Traditional Zimbabwean Clay Pots and Reed Artifacts

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I found a blog post by Tapiwa that delves into traditional Zimbabwean clay pots and reed artifacts. These handcrafted items, such as the Shambakodzi (used for cooking sadza), Hadyana (for relish), and Gate (for brewing beer), are integral to daily life and cultural practices. The blog also highlights reed mats, baskets, and chairs, emphasizing their role in both household utility and cultural identity. Crafted from locally sourced materials, these items showcase the resourcefulness and artistic expression of Zimbabwean communities.

This artifact deepened my understanding of Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage, revealing how everyday objects are imbued with meaning and tradition. The meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating these items reflects a deep connection to the land and a commitment to preserving cultural practices.

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This article from the sociology institute looks at the ongoing fight against poverty in Zimbabwe like recent strategies such as the Social Dimensions of Adjustment and the Social Development Fund, which were launched to protect vulnerable Zimbabweans. It enhances my knowledge of the country by going in-depth into current Zimbabwean economic hardships and the challenges in dealing with them. The article explains how decades of economic collapse and political unrest have affected how Zimbabwe approaches current economic problems. It talks about how programs like the SDF were created to help the people, but often fell short due to a lack of resources/corruption. It also talks about the problems in tackling poverty, how corruption, political instability, and structural inequalities make it a hard obstacle to overcome. I also found it interesting how much ingrained inequality is holding back Zimbabweans from achieving financial freedom.

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Tackling Poverty in Zimbabwe: Strategies and Challenges • Sociology.Institute

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Explores the multifaceted approaches to poverty alleviation in Zimbabwe, detailing the government’s initiatives like the Social Dimensions of Adjustments (SDA) and the Social Development Fund (SDF). It discusses the effectiveness of these strategies in addressing the complexities of poverty amidst economic structural adjustments and societal challenges.