Brunette Tshuma
The ghosts of Gukurahundi continue to haunt Matebeleland, as two commemoration events, scheduled for September 7, 2024, threaten to reignite tensions between Ndebeles and Shonas.
“It’s like history is repeating itself,” said a local resident. “The same divisions that led to the Gukurahundi massacres in the 1980s are still present today.”
The events, Umgubho Wenkosi and the National Traditional Cultural Heritage Festival, aim to celebrate the lives of Mzilikazi and King Mambo, respectively. However, the coincidence of dates and times has raised suspicions of a deeper political agenda.
While the designated venues are far apart, with one at Mawabeni Mambo Palace, and the other at Mhlahlandlela along the Old Gwanda Road, these two clashing events stand as proof of how the Gukurahundi incident was more than just a moment of madness as was claimed.
“This is not just about cultural heritage; it’s about supremacy,” said another resident.
“Both groups want to assert their dominance, and it’s the public that will suffer.”
The Gukurahundi incident, which claimed 20,000 lives, was dismissed by former President Robert Mugabe as “a moment of madness.” However, the legacy of that violence continues to simmer, with many feeling that the wounds of the past have not been adequately addressed.
“We need to confront our history and work towards healing and reconciliation,” said a community leader. “These events, instead of promoting unity, are driving us further apart.”
As the two groups prepare for their respective events, the public is left to choose which one to attend. The setup, however, raises questions about the true intentions behind these commemorations.
“Are we using culture as a smokescreen for political gain?” asked a concerned citizen. “If so, then we’re playing with fire, and the consequences will be disastrous for Zimbabwe.”
Zim GBC News©2024