Discovering our Nambyan roots

Oct 03, 2024

Hello friends! We’re excited to share something truly close to our hearts here at Gwango Heritage Resort - the BaNambya Cultural Exhibit. A few years back, we realised that very little was known about the Nambya and other tribes in the region, so we decided to dig deeper into their history and preserve their stories for future generations. In 2014, driven by our curiosity and respect for the rich heritage of the Nambya and Tonga tribes, our journey began.

The beginning of beautiful friendships
We started by visiting the rural settlements of the Nambya and Tonga tribes. We were captivated by the mystical stories of their past and eager to dive deeper into our community’s heritage. Armed with nothing but a deep eagerness for learning, we started compiling a record of the Nambya journey through heartfelt conversations with local Chiefs and elders. Think of it as our own little treasure hunt, piecing together the incredible tales passed down through generations.

Bringing stories to life
Fast forward to 2015 and 2016 - our research findings were shared during a series of public forums, sparking even more interest and excitement. By 2017, we were ready to take the next big step: creating The BaNambya Exhibit for public display at Gwango Heritage Resort. Imagine walking through a replica Nambya homestead, where you can not only retrace their journey but also prepare a traditional meal and even join in on some lively dancing under the open night skies. It’s an immersive experience that brings history to life in the most magical way. The feeling is indescribable and you have to be there in person to truly understand it - because some moments are beyond words.

A journey through time
Did you know the BaNambya originated from Great Zimbabwe? Our exhibit showcases the similarities between the stone-walled Nambya structures and those of Great Zimbabwe, tracing their lineage back to the Rozvi Dynasty - a formidable society that dates all the way back to 1100 AD. These connections highlight the deep roots and enduring legacy of the Nambya people.

After migrating north from Great Zimbabwe, the Nambya made Hwange National Park their home from the late 18th century until 1927. That’s when the government of Rhodesia declared it a game reserve, making it a place where people could no longer live. Today, there are about 100,000 Nambya in Zimbabwe, living in communal farming areas around Hwange, a town that’s been around since 1903 and named after the Nambya paramount Chief, King Hwange.

Unearthing the stories
Our journey to create the BaNambya Exhibit wasn’t just about gathering facts - it was about connecting with the heart and soul of the Nambya people. Through numerous gatherings with Chiefs, elders and stakeholders, we embarked on expeditions to sacred Nambya sites, uncovering ancient ceremonies and pilgrimages that once animated the land. We pieced together the remarkable journey of the BaNambya, from the exodus of two Rozvi princes from Great Zimbabwe to the rise and eventual fall of their empire in Hwange. It’s a story we’re incredibly proud to share with you all at Gwango Heritage Resort.

Historic expeditions and community efforts
There are a couple of highlights from our adventures that we would like to share:

•  26 May 2016: Journey of the Nambya people expedition
  We organised an expedition to the Shangano Ruins in partnership with the Hwange District Administrator's Office. This trip was a big deal, bringing together the Minister Cain Mathema, traditional Chiefs, the Deputy Director for Provincial Affairs and representatives from ZimParks, the Forestry Commission and tourism stakeholders. It was a day filled with discovery, collaboration and a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage.

• 14 January 2016: Historic visit to Mtoa Ruins
  For the first time, living BaNambya Chiefs visited the sacred Mtoa Ruins, where their ancestors once held ancient rainmaking ceremonies. It was a powerful moment of reconnection and reverence for our traditions.

• 10 April 2015: Formalising the Banambya Cultural Exhibit
  Traditional Chiefs and stakeholders from the Hwange region came together to establish the BaNambya Cultural Exhibit. This platform allows traditional leaders, the local community and other stakeholders to participate meaningfully in cultural preservation and tourism activities, creating jobs and promoting economic development.

The BaNambya Cultural Exhibit is a celebration of our heritage and a tribute to the resilience and creativity of the Nambya people. From the intricately woven baskets and beaded elephant sculptures to the traditional masks of the BaNambya, every detail is crafted by local artisans who pour their heart into preserving our culture.

Be sure to take a moment to visit the BaNambya Cultural Exhibit on your next visit to Gwango! Step into the replica homestead, try your hand at preparing a traditional meal and maybe even join in on a dance under the stars. It’s a wonderful way to connect with our past, support our community and create unforgettable memories. Legend says, when you eat and dance with us, you leave with a piece of our spirit, forever connected to the heart of Hwange.

Thanks for being part of our journey. We can’t wait to share more stories and experiences with you at Gwango!