Cicada serenade at Hwange

Nov 28, 2024

Cicadas, like Platypleura haglundi, are in full symphonic force this November at Gwango Elephant Lodge. Unlike their 13- or 17-year counterparts in the US, these Zimbabwean musicians emerge annually, filling the warm evenings with their vibrant chorus. Sitting around the firepit, their song blends perfectly with the crackle of flames and our lively conversations, creating the perfect atmosphere under the stars.

Rather than being viewed as noisy disruptions, cicadas here are cherished as a natural part of Zimbabwe’s soundscape. One evening, while sharing stories and laughter at the firepit, a guide mentioned how these time of year cicadas, known locally as nyenze, also serve as a food source in rural communities. For many, they provide an affordable and nutritious alternative to pricier meats like beef or chicken.

The process of preparing nyenze fascinated us. The guide explained how they are caught using a simple wire, their wings removed before being boiled and then either sun-dried or fried into a crunchy snack. A guest chimed in pointing out that cicadas are a delicacy in other regions too, including China, Myanmar and central Africa.

Hearing this cultural connection turned our admiration for these tiny musicians into respect for their resourcefulness and role in local traditions. As we drifted off to sleep later, their distant hum felt less like background noise and more like a lullaby - a soothing reminder of nature’s rhythms and the unique beauty of Zimbabwe.

While others might groan at the thought of cicada "invasions," at Gwango, their serenade is a melody of comfort and connection to Zimbabwe’s wild, untamed beauty.