National
Nambya people in bid to preserve rich heritage
BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
Chief Shana’s palace near Victoria Falls came to life on Friday where hundreds of people attended the annual Jambezi Cultural Festival, which is meant to preserve Nambya people’s culture
Organisers of the festival say it is one of the ways they are using to preserve the Nambya culture for people that are mainly found in Matabeleland North’s Hwange district.
Hwange regional magistrate Collet Ncube, who officiated at the event, said the festival was meant to teach young people about Nambya culture.
“Young people are the next custodians of our culture and this is why my message when I was officiating hammered on that impact,” Ncube, who hails from Shashachuma village under Chief Whange said.
“Young people need to be taught about our values as Nambya people and have a deeper understanding of how some things are done in our traditions and norms so that they can pass it to the next generation.”
Close to 200 young people and school going children gathered at the palace where some aspects of Nambya traditions were showcased.
Wben Chief Shana arrived everyone knelt down as his clan praises were being chanted.
In-between the praises, women ululated and clapped hands while men remained seated on the ground.
“The numbers of youths and children was overwhelming and as the elderly people we felt honoured by that because some came as far as Matetsi and Sidinda,” Ncube said.
“Our cultures play a huge role in shaping the children while preparing them for bigger roles as they grow and this also helps in raising law abiding communities and that strengthens the culture while lessening crimes in courts.”
According to the Nambya Cultural Association, an organisation advocating for the promotion of Nambya, the Nambyan people trace their origins to 1700 and 12 kings have headed their kingdom.
The organization says King Nchengwa Nengasha was the last king of baNambya in terms of authority before white settlers opened the then Wankie Colliery Company.
However, the rebellion from 1893 to 1896 brought down the Wange Kingdom and after the death of King Nengasha, instead of kingdoms, all leaders were appointed as chiefs.
BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
Blessing Waison and Fortunate Chidzivo took top honors at the 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon yesterday, as Zimbabwean long-distance runners excelled at Africa’s most prestigious road race.
Econet General Manager – Marketing, Mrs Tariro Muchena (left), and Finance Director, Mr Chengeto Moyo, present the winner’s prize to men’s marathon champion, Blessing Waison, at the 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, while Victoria Falls Mayor, Mr Prince Moyo, looks on
The event, which featured athletes from over 40 countries, saw Waison storm to victory in the men’s full marathon, clocking 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 16 seconds. He narrowly beat decorated Olympian Isaac Mpofu in a thrilling duel that brought thousands of spectators to their feet.
Godwin Katakura followed closely in third, completing an all-Zimbabwean podium sweep in the 42.2km race. The trio’s success came with bigger rewards this year, after Econet Wireless doubled the total prize purse to $50,000.
Waison walked away with $3,000, while Mpofu and Katakura earned $2,000 and $1,500, respectively.
In the women’s marathon, Chidzivo delivered a commanding performance, clocking 2 hours and 42 minutes to claim another major title in her illustrious career. Ethel Pangiso and Phillipa Dube completed the women’s podium in second and third place, respectively.
Rising star Wayne Kabondo turned heads in the men’s 21km half marathon, overcoming a formidable field to finish in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 44 seconds. Kabondo pocketed $1,500 for his efforts.
In the women’s 21km race, Caroline Mhandu crossed the line in 1 hour, 17 minutes, and 50 seconds, ahead of Miriam Sibanda and Melody Kaseke.
The marathon’s inclusive spirit was evident in the 18km Specially Abled Races, which saw uplifting performances across different categories. Godknows Hamadziripi claimed the men’s tricycle title, while Samson Muroyiwa won the handcycle event.
Among the women, Stella Jongwe triumphed in the handcycle race, and Ratidzo Tomu took first position in the tricycle category.
Organized by Econet Wireless in partnership with Wild Horizons, the 2025 edition drew over 5,000 participants and spectators from more than 40 countries. The marathon route, widely regarded as Africa’s most scenic, winds through game reserves and offers spectacular views of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls.
https://x.com/vic_falls_live/status/1941861569450725776?s=46
Beyond the races, this year’s event featured live music, traditional dance, health expos, and community wellness activities.
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