Zimbabwe News Update
dandaro
1 min read
#DidYouKnow the mbira is officially recognized as Zimbabwe’s national instrument, celebrated for its deep cultural and spiritual significance. Often called the “thumb piano,” the mbira has been played for centuries in Shona communities during ceremonies, storytelling, and healing rituals. Its sound—created by plucking metal keys mounted on a wooden board—carries ancestral meaning and is believed to connect the living with the spirits of the departed.
Mbira The most sacred form, mbira dzavadzimu (“mbira of the ancestors”), is central to traditional rituals and was once banned during colonial rule for being “too spiritual.” Despite this, the mbira survived underground, becoming a symbol of cultural resistance and pride. Today, it’s taught in schools, played at national events, and remains a vital part of Zimbabwe’s identity.
Modern Zimbabwean artists have brought the mbira to global audiences, blending its ancient rhythms with jazz, reggae, and contemporary sounds. Pioneers like Chiwoniso Maraire and Stella Chiweshe have redefined its role, while young musicians continue to innovate. As the national instrument, the mbira stands as a living bridge between tradition and modern expression.
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