Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
EDITORS DESK
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hank you for taking time to read this edition of our very own Zim/ Canadian community magazine. The objective of this publication is to showcase all Zimbabwean/Canadian individuals, associations, organizations and community initiatives. Our goal is to keep our community well informed and connected across the nation, and give everyone a voice to share their expertise, experiences, achievements, stories, etc.. in this magazine.Though we are divided by provincial boundaries, we continue to be united as a people from the Motherland, our Zimbabwe. ZimCan263 is not an individuals Magazine, it’s your Magazine by and for your community. Hence please feel free to contribute your articles so you can share your story with your fellow brothers and sisters. Have a pleasant read. K & D Chimbari Zimcan263 Community Magazine
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CONTENT Article Features
How He Overcame Covid-19, Biza’s Kitchen Meet Pauline “AKA” Pipi
Business Features
Zim-Canadians venture into money markets & Investment strategies
Entertainment
Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
ZIMCAN263 MAGAZINE
Kaybeth Media
Download & Subscribe your Magazine at; www.zimcan263.com
500 KEELE STREET TORONTO, ON, CANADA Advertising Marketing Editorial Team Distribution Contact Us : kaybethmedia@gmail.com www.kaybethmedia.com @2020 All rights reserved
Meet Suku (Artist of the month) Marcel “Marcel Papi” Artist
Fashion Pages 36-41 Culture
The Zimbabwe Shona National Dress Zimbabwean Dances
Opinion
You are a wow experience - By Andile (Page 14)
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FEATURES
August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
HOW I OVERCAME
COVID-19 A TRUE STORY BY CHRIS JAMBS
“IF YOU TEST POSITIVE FOR COVID 19, DON’T PANIC. RELAX! IF YOU PANIC, YOU PHYSIOLOGICALLY WELCOME THE VIRUS INTO YOUR SYSTEM,” said Chris Jambs in his testimonial of how he overcame the notorious Covid 19 virus.
the antibodies to resist and fight the virus. Fruits and vegetables became my staple food as l had to change my diet habits. You are what you eat, and there are certain foods that boost your immune system, the military unit of your body. A hungry soldier cannot win a war, thus feed your system with foods that are beneficial to your system. Foods with high concentration of Vitamin C & D are recommended i.e.... housands gathered at oranges, apples, lemons, the Alberta Legislature watermelons, berries, grounds Friday June kiwi, ginger, garlic 5, 2020 where Chris and honey. I made Jambs a professional news different remedies reporter, presenter ,producer using these foods. I also , promoter, business man, used eucalyptus oil and and CEO of Jambs Media was vitamin supplements. covering the protest for a news piece. It is at this event that Chris To ease the pain l used suspects he was then infected Tylenol Sinus pain relief. with the deadly COVID19 before I also boiled water, mixed it he finally tested Negative 4 weeks with salt and gargled three later. Chris decided to share how or four times before having my he overcame COVID-19 with home remedy of mixing lemon, the community to encourage honey, boiled ginger and garlic. I anyone who may find themselves would then added lemon ginger in a similar situation that he had tea into the remedy so that it found himself entangled in. felt as though l was simply having a cup of tea. I also The protest came in the wake made sure l drank a lot of the death of George Floyd, of water, it is important following protests in cities across you stay hydrated. I the world as people stood up to would also make sure end systematic racism. The only that every evening l way to fight the virus is to boost would boil ginger, your immune system and help lemon and use it
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for body steaming. When you do body steaming procedures, do it carefully so as not to burn yourself. After 28 days of doing all this l got a call from Alberta Health that l had tested negative for Covid-19. Prevention is better than cure, stay safe, wear your mask, and practise social distancing.
Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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August/September , 2020
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M E E T PAULINE My name is Pauline and l am the founder of the fashion brand Pipi Styles. Pipi is actually my nickname, that where l got the brand name from WHEN DID PIPISTYLES BEGIN I started the business in 2012, but this year (2020) l decided to officially launch our online store. Previously we were just selling via word of mouth and social media networking. TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY I am a Happy, loved wife, married to my amazing husband Gary aka (Mhofu), and a proud mother of two boys. Being a mother of young boys l had to balance my career and being there for my children. Now that my boys are a little older, l can put more time in expanding my business further. WHAT CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO FROM PIPISTYLES IN THE NEAR FUTURE? I have been focusing on creating designs for women, that was my clientele. But starting January 2021, we will be launching the men’s clothing line. So look out for that update on our website from hoodies to t-shirts, shirts, etc.. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED I happen to love sawing and l began when l was 10yrs old, when l would design clothes for my Barbie dolls. We happened to have a manual sawing machine in the house. My sister was a designer, so l would observe her making clothes and that’s how l actually learnt how to use the sewing machine. My first product l made back then was a set of food net covers, my parents liked them and decided to display them at their grocery store in Warren Park, Harare Zimbabwe. It so happened that they would always sell, and that’s how l actually would make my own pocket money.
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When l was now in High School, l did Fashion & Fabrics as one of my practical subjects, at Monte Casino High School. I was the most sought after student by my classmates in that class as l knew a lot about fashion and fabrics, and how to use the sewing machine. I was my teachers favourite and that was one of my favourite classes. After High School l kind of stopped, whilst l was in the US for three years. I then moved to Canada where l rediscovered my sewing passion. I started making crib comforters, posted them on my page and people positively responded. They liked my crib comforters, l put them up on kijiji and started selling them whilst l was on Maternity leave. One client suggested that I start sewing clothes. I went on Youtube and learnt a few more things, advanced my clothing design and sewing skills. I gradually started gaining confidence in my dress making up until l
perfected my sewing and design skills. I focussed on making dresses and skirts, more of skirts. Having mastered that, l started getting order requests from my friends. From then the rest is history.
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August/September , 2020
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Introducing
Biza’s Kitchen
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iza’s Kitchen and More is a Youtube channel that is aimed at infusing African and Caribbean Culture with food, language, music and just our overall way of life. It was created by Novia Rhule-Gambiza, a Jamaican who is married to Baba Angeline, who goes by the name of Mambo Chivero, Mbira player from Zimbabwe. “Growing up, I was always fascinated with the African Culture and given the fact that my ancestors were from the Motherland, I was and still am curious to know my roots. Being married to a Zimbabwean; I am officially a Zimaican and being accepted by the amazing people of Zimbabwe, both near and far, I want to share more of what I know and experienced about Zimbabwe and the African Culture on a whole with my fellow Jamaicans and Caribbean people far and wide; who whether they want to accept it or not that “no matter where we come from, once you are a blackman, you are indeed an African”. Hence, Biza’s Kitchen and More was coined and will be used as a way to open each culture’s mindset to what other cultures eat; the languages they speak; their music as some Jamaicans have never heard of Zim Dancehall and just bringing who we are to the forefront. So please join us while we bring this venture a live and you can do so, by Subscribing to our Youtube Channel “Biza’s Kitchen and More or email us bizakitchen@gmail.com to collaborate.
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
TOP 5 ZIMBABWEAN INTERNATIONAL CELEBRITIES IN HOLLYWOOD, AMERICAN MUSIC, UK SPORTS AND GLOBAL BUSINESS
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here is no doubt that Zimbabwe has produced a lot of outstanding men and women, some of who are in the Diaspora – USA, UK, Canada, South Africa and other countries. Our neighbouring South Africa has managed to produce numerous international celebrities such as Trevor Noah, the main presenter on the US Daily Show, Charlize Theron, a Hollywood actress and Elon Musk, a billionaire innovator , engineer and CEO behind Tesla Motors and SpaceX. We at Zimcan 263 Magazine thought to take a moment to appreciate our outstanding men and women around the world. Without wasting time, here are some of the famous Zimbabweans who have made it in Hollywood, American Music, UK Sports and International Business:
Danai Gurira –
A US based Zimbabwean actress who found her fame by featuring in the Walking Dead movie.
Thandie Newton -
A half Zimbabwean actress who has appeared in movies along with Will Smith and Tyler Perry.
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
Tinashe –
A US born Zimbabwean singer/ actress and producer with at least 6 awards and nominations to her name.
Dereck Chisora –
A British Zimbabwean boxer who held commonwealth heavyweight titles from 2010 to 2011, and the European heavyweight title from 2013 to 2014.
Strive Masiyiwa –
Zimbabwe’s well known entrepreneur and businessman. Strive Masiyiwa is a Forbes millionaire who is connecting the African Sub Saharan region to cable internet, including creating the continent’s second largest digital satellite tv network ( Kwesé )
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You Are A Wow Experience August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
Article By Andile “The Slay Queen”
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n the age of social media, in the age of so many successful women. We sometimes compare ourselves and feel that we are not good —enough.
Not fun enough, Pretty enough, Not educated enough. Not enough to attract the right person; oWr receive the right treatment. For some perhaps you are all these things but there is something missing on the inside. Maybe you are not sure of who you are not sure of who you are or still feel you are not worthy of the right kind of love. I am here to let you know that you my darling are a wonder. You are a child of God; a child of God deserves to be royally loved. You are a princess. John 1:12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God Whether you work at a gas station or in the fanciest office you are worthy of being loved by ANY man. Even by the most successful “doctor lawyer accountant president of the united states”. 1 John 3:1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! “All girls are princesses! Even if they live in tiny old attics, even if they dress in rags, even if they aren’t pretty, or smart, or young, they’re still princesses – all of us!” ~ A Little Princess. You deserve to be treated with respect, with love and you deserve to be adored even if you are not wearing the latest fashions. No matter the places you have traveled to or haven’t traveled to, no matter the type of pictures you have on your Instagram or who your mom and dad was or wasn’t. You are worthy and deserving of love. You are worthy of respect. The Naked Truth: No More Free Samples, No More Taste Test, your Womanhood is not the Food Court at the mall! Get your body off the Buffet, you’ve had too many spoons in your dish. Its time to be a 5 star reservations only….no free samples experience, ~ Miss More Roses So do not allow someone to speak to you or treat you just any kind of way because Christ died for you. You are a WOW experience. Don’t be cheap. Don’t sell yourself short; or give your body away. Don’t even try too hard to please. You are a Fine Dining sit down stay awhile. Reservations requires. FIVE star experience!! Treat yourself as such and require others treat you that way too. Have faith.
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Andile 13
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BUSINESS
August/September , 2020
Ropa Mupambwa Opens Celyn Rose store in one of Alberta’s largest Mall.
“We
are pleased to annonce the opening of our first store in Chinook Mall on August 1st, 2020,” said a post by the Celyn Rose management on their social media platforms.
A business founded by Ropafadzo Mupambwa, daughter of prolific writer, author and life coach Rosemary Mupambwa; Celyn Rose is an exquizite, classy brand that carries quality products from shoes, handbags, and other accesories. The new store was officialy launched on August 1st, 2020 at a coulerful ribbon cutting event that saw a great turnout despite the Corona Virus Pandemic. The Zimbabwean born business woman in an interview noted that this is not going to be her last, but only the biginning of greater things to come. Ropafadzo see’s Celyn Rose expanding to other parts of Canada, and to other countries too. Calgary had to be her first location of choice as she felt a responsebility to cater first to her home town community. However, she urges people to be on the look our for new stores opening in cities near them in the future. Visit Celyn Rose store at CF Chinook Mall, 6455 Macleod Trail, S.W, Calgary. You can also
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
DO YOU WANT TO DO BUSINESS IN ZIMBABWE? Business Registration Services (Zimbabwe) Register Your Business In Zimbabwe
1. Company Registration $85 2. PBC Registration $50 3. CR14 and CR6 changes $45 4. Annual returns $20 5. Company / file search $20 6. Patent Registration $70 7. Copyright Registrations $60 8. Trade Marks $50 9. Company Bank Account application $20 10. Business Partner Number application $20 11. Bank advice Note application $20 12. Tax clearance Certificate Renewal: minimum $25 13. Tax clearance Certificate : First time $50
14. Vat registration $40 15. BPN activation for imports :$20 16. Import License application $100 17. Export license application $100 18. NSSA registration $30 19. NEC Registration $30 20. Zimbabwe Investment Authority ( ZIA ) License application $200 21. Tourism License application $150 22. Liquor license*$60* 23. Shop trading license*$50* 24. Mining license application $350
25. NGO registration WW 26. Trust Registration $250 27. Energy License Application $500 28. PRAZ registration $40 29. Vendor number application $50 30. Tender applications $50 31. Capital gains tax certificate application: 3% of the value of an asset 32. Tax waivers appeals and applications : 3% of the amount waived . 33. Microfinance lisense $300
ALL BUSINESS LICENSES APPLICATIONS DONE AT OUR OFFICE
OFFICE ADDRESS : TROPICALZONE, 8th Floor - Club Chambers House, 3rd Street and Nelson Mandela Ave, Harare, Zimbabwe Call / App :0779562095 Tel: 0242255565 Email: mukogivy@gmail.com
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
Zimbabweans In Canada Venture into Money Markets & Investment Strategies
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s a result of the pandemic, many Zimbabwean Canadians have revived the entrepreneurial drive within themselves and have been pursuing various money generating and money saving practises amongst other working from home projects.
Zimcan263 has learned that during the pandemic there are Zimbabwean Canadians that have generated serious money from these various investment projects from profits of $2000 to others cashing in over $100 000 during the pandemic after having participating in various, legitimate, functional investments. INVESTMENTS CLUBS (MA-ROUNDS) Some call it “Ma-rounds”, some call them Pyramid Schemes, Others call them advance loans, others call it Chimbadzo; but in reality these are credible investment strategies that the banking systems and other institutions have perfected and formalized over the years. These truly are money market based capital investment strategies. The whole “rounds” system was originally started in the UK after the first world war, by a small group of rich people in London who decided to form a club where they would loan each other money as a savings strategy on a rotating bases of payouts. The system eventually spread and grew within London and was then introduced to the local Zimbabweans by our former colonizers, a practise we embraced and called “Ma-rounds” based on the circulating pattern of payment dues from one investor to the other. ROTATING PYRAMID BASED “ROUNDS” INVESTMENTS Others are joining investment clubs that require investments ranging from USD$300 to USD$5000 that are based on one recruiting two more members after joining. Once your turn to receive payments comes “birthday”, you go to the bottom of the pyramid. RECEIPT SCANNING Some have joined receipt scanning projects spear headed buy data collection companies and point reward systems. In this project you scan receipts via an App called Receipt Hog, and Receipt Pal, Fetch App, amongst others. Every-time you scan a receipt you get coins/points that are redeemable via Paypal or gift cards. CROWD1 A global online crowd marketing and networking company affiliated to selling entertainment and gambling products. It has a built in system that allows the participates to make money through commissions and membership networks. As one progresses up the ranks and levels they begin to make more money.
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August/September , 2020
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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August/September , 2020
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
The Grace Chapter
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t has been a long wait with many ups and downs but, thanks to the Almighty God, it is finally happening. I would like to thank each and everyone of you for the love and support you have been sharing throughout this journey. Because of God and many of you, I can stand here and enjoy this gift of life. Finally, the wait is Over!! The Grace Chapter Virtual Book Launch is finally here. Mark your Calendars, September 19th, 2020 is the day. Just an awesome treat in this time that we are in. Bring a friend and tell a friend because you don’t want to miss this one! Date: September 19 Time: 3pm Platform: Zoom Details
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ENTERTAINMENT
August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
Suku’s New Single
NOW OUT
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HO IS SUKU? SUKU is a power packed worship leader, singer and songwriter who is impassioned about God and ministry through song. Born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, she is the first of three girls (born to Mr (Ernest) and Mrs (Ellen) Mlalazi) that have grown to be phenomenal women in their own rights. SUKU lived in New Zealand in 2002 before finally settling in Canada in 2005. She is married to Winani Ndlovu and they have been blessed with four beautiful children.
Humility goes a long way. Always be humble, obedient and faithful to God always, this is the best advice I can give to those aspiring to be in this journey and to fellow ministers of the Gospel.
WHAT’S THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR SINGLE YOU ARE? You Are is a song that is rooted in Psalms. As I was doing my devotions one morning during this COVID 19 era, the Holy Spirit led me to Psalms 119:114 and Psalms 59:9 that say , “You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word,” and “You are my strength, I watch for you, God, are my fortress” respectively. These two verses stuck with me and upon reflection, I was reminded that even in time of trouble God is our strength, our hope and our shield. A melody then came to me as I was doing my day to day activities and it would not go away, I knew I had to put it down on paper. After countless nights in the studio with my sister Dudu Angeline and by the grace of God, the single You Are was birthed and now is now available on most music platforms.
WHY GOSPEL MUSIC? As a worshipper I believe it is not just gospel music or a performance, but a sound of worship unto the Father each time I minister to His people.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SING GOSPEL? Ministry has always been a huge part of my life. As early as I was 10, I had begun my journey in ministering. I was also a part of a popular interdenominational ensemble that was called Wings Over Jordan back in Zimbabwe. My song writing journey began when I was 18 and my passion for music can be attributed to my family as most members are Gospel musicians. WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE WHO WANT TO WALK IN THE SAME PATH?
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ARE YOU WORKING ON ANY COLLABORATIONS? I’m looking forward to collaborating with Dudu Angeline, who is also a gospel musician based in Edmonton and other gospel artists around the world as well soon. I have also worshipped and ministered with the Edmonton Choir in Alberta.
ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON ANY PROJECTS? I’m currently working on my EP and I can’t wait to bless people with it the same way I was blessed when the Holy Spirit dropped the songs in my spirit. HOW CAN PEOPLE GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU? I am on social media, they can find me on Facebook: SUKU, Instagram: SUKU Music and they can also reach me via email, sukundloe@yahoo.ca
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August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
ur very own rising superstar, Marcel aka “Marcel Papi” is not only a talented singer, but also a songwriter, producer, instrumentalist and young entrepreneur. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Marcel relocated to Canada at a young age. He found his passion for music at a tender age. Marcel sings songs that inspire his generation and peers to be loyal and faithful to their loved ones, inspiring those that have found love, to be the perfect helper and soul-mates to each other, creating the perfect environment for healthy relationships. Whilst other r&b/hip Afro Pop musicians promote promiscuity, Marcel has found his calling in being able to capture his generations attention, and gradually guide them towards building healthy relationships. Marcel has released various singles including Wangu, and the 2020 hit “Keys To Your Heart”. You can follow Marcel on You-tube via his channel handle @Chino Wawa.
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August/September , 2020
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eet Minister Solo Bill He is based in Alberta Canada, a humble, man of God who has always been on fire for the Kingdom of God. Minister Solo is also an established Entrepreneur, Music Producer and Instrumentalist (Bass Guitar, Keys, Lead Guitar, Acoustic amongst others.), He an amazing Husband and father. A friend to many, a brother and son. Get in touch with Minister Solo for professional Music & Audio Production.
Solo Bill Minister
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Minister
Veronica Bill 31
CELEBRATIONS
August/September , 2020
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The Beauty of
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Love & Marriage
TIPS FOR A HAPPY SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIP/ MARRIAGE
In this article, we explore some basic yet essential principles for a happy marriage/relationship. 1. FOCUS ON WHAT BUILDS YOU RATHER THAN WHAT DESTROYS. Before a couple decides to commit, usually in the dating phase, each partner focuses on the things they love about the other, they become very attentive on focusing on what they like rather than what they don’t like, going even to the extent of telling as much people as they can about what they love about the other. However, usually once married it’s like a switch is flipped and each partner begins to focus on what they hate about the other, they no longer appreciate the good things rather focus on the errors, mistakes and negative stuff. This is not all couples who do this, but some make this mistake. Learn to stay focused on the aspects that build your relationship, the things that grow your love life, and amplify the great things your spouse does rather that the opposite. When one focuses on the
1% negative, they begin to not see 3. I don’t reject my partner’s the 99% great things their partner opinions every time we argue. does. Working to increase, recall (True/False) or unearth positive emotions 4. I believe my partner has about each other is essential. The important things to say and fondness and admiration aspects value them. (True/False) of your relationship are the 5. I believe we are partners with antidote to contempt. equal say in our relationship. (True/False) 2. LET YOUR PARTNER ALSO INFLUENCE YOU & YOUR If you said “true” to all of the RELATIONSHIP above, you are likely to accept your partner’s influence. This principle is about making decisions together and looking for common ground (sharing the Relationship/Marriage power in your marriage). Do’s & Dont’s 1. Never leave the house without Letting your partner influence saying goodbye. you isn’t about having one person 2. Keep your spouse’s secrets— in control of everything; it’s about no matter how small. honouring and respecting both 3. And never share personal people in the relationship. details or private information about them to your friends. Listening to your partner and 4. When bringing up a complaint being open to compromise and / or criticism, start with a or changing your opinion, instead compliment first. of digging your heels in just to 5. Don’t sweat the small stuffbe right are some of the essential No relationship is perfect and ingredients in this principle. there will always be minor things your spouse does Answer these few quiz questions that irk you, but that doesn’t to see how well you accept your mean they warrant a serious partner’s influence (challenging discussion. yourself by thinking how you 6. Have calm conversations would answer these questions rather than heated arguments. during conflict): 7. Don’t ever stop going on dates-you can easily keep 1. I am interested in my partner’s your relationship as fun and opinions on issues in our as loving as it was at the start relationship. (True/False) simply by treating it exactly 2. I don’t try to convince my like you did then. partner to see things my way all the time. (True/False)
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FASHION
August/September , 2020
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CULTURE
August/September , 2020
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The Zimbabwean National Dress of the Shona People
What does an original cultural/ethnic dress for the native Shona people of Zimbabwe look like? The only way to find out is to look at historical archives of artist depictions and photos taken in the 1800s and 1900s. We found these pictures taken in the 1900 of Shona women and girls in traditional dress and attire. It belongs to the website rhodesian.com.au
Mashona women, girls, and children 1900s
Mashona women 1908
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Native Shona villagers 1908 - Source Rhodisian Study Circle
Mashona Men from Chief Mashayamombe - August 1890 Source: Rhodesian Austral-
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August/September , 2020
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A Look at Mbende (Jerusarema) Traditional Dance in Zimbabwe
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erusarema/Mbende is believed to have originated as a war dance, fertility dance, hunting dance and funeral dance. This shows that Jerusarema dance had a ritual function in the Zezuru community. Mbende refers to the dancers’ movements of emulating and imitating the darting of the rodent. Mbende is a term depicting curiosity that has revealed much about the dance’s variations over the centuries. In the colonial era, the Christian missionaries banned the dance because of the sexual implication demonstrated in the dance movements. There are two versions of the chiefs’ petition to the missionaries, which led to the name change from Mbende to Jerusarema. This dance is mainly popular amongst the Shona people in Zimbabwe. The Shona people are made up of smaller suethnis groups including, Ndau, Zezuru, Manyika, Karanga, Kor Kore, and Kalanga people.
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The ancient fertility dance was called dembe or mbende, a Shona word for “mole” which signified fertility and hence the dance became very popular with the locals. Christian missionaries who came to the area disapproved the sexual explicitly dance but the community/practitioners fearing for its extinction, decided to Christian the dance Jerusarema, a Shona pronunciation of Jerusalem (The Holy City)
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The Museve/ Borrowdale Dance
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he Borrowdale dance (also known as the dance of horses) is a Zimbabwean dance named after the horse-racing track situated in the Borrowdale suburb of Zimbabwe’s capital city, Harare. The dance is characterised by fancy footwork and galloping body movements in the style of racing horses. The dance was popularized by members of the Khiama Boyz, including Macheso, Madzibaba, and Tazvida.
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The Jiti Dance & Music
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iti (also known as jiti, jit-jive and the Harare beat) is a style of popular Zimbabwean dance music. It features a swift rhythm played on drums and accompanied by a guitar. Jit evolved out many diverse influences, including domestic chimurenga, Congolese rumba and Tanzanian guitar styles. The genre was popularized in the 1980s by bands like Chazezesa Challengers, The Four Brothers and Bhundu Boys. Jit is one of Zimbabwean fast beat, but there is a confusion between the more popular “sungura” which is said to be Jit which was popularised by Chazezesa Challengers and many others including Alick Macheso and Orchestra Mberikwazvo. AS the country continues to celebrate Culture Week under the theme ‘African Royalty: Our Heritage’, I have decided to focus on one of Zimbabwe’s cultural music genres pfonda which has stood the test of time. Pfonda, popularly known as jiti, is celebratory in nature and played mainly during marriage celebrations, victory celebrations, bumper harvests, traditional ceremonies and many other cultural events. The songs are usually satirical, with a hidden meaning, and a good selection of words of a praise or counselling.
The boys demonstrate their drum beating, composing and singing skills while girls also exhibit their dancing skills as well as their melodious voices as they outdo each other in gyrating their bottoms to the tempo of the drum. Culturally, jiti or pfonda is performed during the night and is characterised mainly by drum beating, melodies and dance. The drum beating and singing is also fused with dances like kongonya, honda, chipisi and, nowadays, bhorodhero. Jiti has managed to withstand the test of time like mbende or jerusarema. Both are concentrated around the Zezuru people. Murehwa is one area which remains popular with the two. Jiti has managed to form the basis of sungura music through its drum tempo and lyrical content. Unlike Simon and Naison Chimbetu’s Marxist Brothers and Kassongo Band’s sungura whose music is dominated by kanindo or kamba benga music of West Africa, Tineyi Chikupo, Ephraim Joe, Cephas Karushanga, John Chibadura, Sherpherd Musekiwa, Farai Brothers, Paul Mpofu, Mitchell Jambo and many other artistes’ sungura is dominated by jiti or pfonda. Jiti music can be fused with all the instruments and still retain the flavour. James Chimombe churned out several hit jiti songs; prominent among them being ‘Mujubheki’ in which he used saxophones and trumpets.
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Muchongoyo Dance
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he Muchongoyo dance mainly but not exclusively represents the Ndebele culture and is traditionally performed in preparation for war and after war, especially when the Ndebele are victorious. The Muchongoyo is also used as a military training exercise, and is characteristically performed with a stick and a shield. The Muchongoyo dance is also a social and recreational dance, and does not have a religious feature; instead it highlights the events of the society. The signature movement is stamping, and dramatic gestures as well as a mimetic element are essential. The dress is neo-traditional, accommodating the changing times, but still resembling the traditional costume. Males historically perform this dance; however females participate by creating the music.
List Of Popular Zimbabwean Dances 1. Jerusarema/Mbende 2. Muchongoyo 3. Mbakumba 4. Borrowdale/Museve 5. Jiti 6. Kongonya 7. Isitshikitsha 8. Jikinya 9. Imbube 10. Mbaqanjga 11. Shangara
12. Mbira Dance 13. Dinhe 14. Mhande 15. Amabhiza 16. Ingquza 17. Chinyobera 18. Ngungu
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August/September , 2020
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The Kariba Legend of the Nyami Nyami
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he BaTonga People lived in the Zambezi Valley for centuries in peaceful seclusion and with little contact with the outside world. They were simple folk who built their houses in kraal along the banks of the great river and believed that their gods looked after them supplying them with water and food.
were forcibly removed as they would not believe that their fields and homes they had known all their lives would now be flooded and under water.
The name Kariba comes from the word Kariva or karinga, meaning trap, which refers to a rock jutting out from the gorge where the dam wall was to be built. It was believed by the BaTonga to be the home But their idealistic lifestyle was to be blown apart. In of Nyaminyami, the river god, and they believed anthe early 1940s a report was made about the possi- yone who ventured near the rock was dragged down bility of a hydro-electric scheme to supply power for to spend eternity under the water. the growing industry that colonialism had brought to the federation of countries that were known as Reluctantly they allowed themselves to be resettled Northern Rhodesia on one side of the river and higher up the bank, but they believed Nyaminyami Southern Rhodesia on the other, now Zambia and would never allow the dam to be built and eventualZimbabwe. ly, when the project failed, they would move back to their homes. In 1956, construction on the Kariba Dam project was started. In 1957, when the dam was well on its way to completion, Nyaminyami struck. The worst floods ever Heavy earth-moving equipment roared into the val- known on the Zambezi washed away much of the ley and tore out thousands of hundred-year-old trees partly built dam and the heavy equipment, killing to build roads and settlements to house the workers many of the workers. who poured into the area to build a dam that would harness the powerful river. The BaTonga’s peace and Some of those killed were white men whose bodsolitude was shattered and they were told to leave ies disappeared mysteriously, and after an extensive their homes and move away from the river to avoid search failed to find them, Tonga elders were asked the flood that the dam would cause. Many of them to assist as their tribesmen knew the river better
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than anyone. The elders explained Nyaminyami had caused the disaster and in order to appease his wrath a sacrifice should be made.
The very next rainy season, however, brought further floods even worse than the previous year. Nyaminyami had struck again, destroying the coffer dam, They weren’t taken seriously, but, in desperation, the access bridge and parts of the main wall. when relatives of the missing workers were due to arrive to claim the bodies of their loved ones, the The project survived and the great river was eventusearch party agreed in the hope that the tribesmen ally controlled. In 1960 the generators were switched would know where the bodies were likely to have on and have been supplying electricity to Zimbabwe been washed to. and Zambia ever since. A Black calf was slaughtered and floated on the river. The next morning the calf was gone and the workers’ bodies were in its place. The disappearance of the calf holds no mystery in the crocodile infested river, but the reappearance of the workers’ bodies three days after they had disappeared has never been satisfactorily explained. After the disaster, flow patterns of the river were studied to ascertain whether there was a likelihood of another flood and it was agreed a flood of comparable intensity would only occur once every thousand years.
The BaTonga still live on the shores of River Kariba, and many still believe one day Nyaminyami will fulfill his promise and they will be able to return to their homes on the banks of the river. They believe Nyaminyami and his wife were separated by the wall across the river, and the frequent earth tremors felt in the area since the wall was built are caused by the spirit trying to reach his wife, and one day he will destroy the dam. The small earthquakes are actually caused by the weight of water stored in Lake Kariba pressing down on the earth’s crust, and intensify with changes in water levels in the lake.
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August/September , 2020
Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com
How to speak the Ndebele Language
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imbabwean Ndebele is referred to as Northern Ndebele to differentiate it from Southern Ndebele spoken in South Africa. It is a Nguni language derived from Zulu. Just like Xhosa,Zulu and Khoisan languages ,Ndebele has some interesting click sounds which are hard to pronounce for anyone who did not take Ndebele lessons at a younger age.Some of the interesting click sounds are: Ca – kucacile (it’s clear and concise) Qa – iqanda (an egg) Nxa – Nxa (if,when) Qha – iqhawe (hero) Xa – ixoxo (frog) Nqo – sinqobile (we conquered) Nca – mncedisi (helper) Cho – chola (grind) uchago (milk) Ngqo – amangqonqo (beads) Gci – gcina (to keep) igciwane ( bacteria/virus) Xha – uxhwalile (you are naughty or rude) umxhanxa (a traditional Ndebele dish composed of boiled maize and sugar) Here are some of the basic Ndebele phrases used in everyday life and their translation: Livuke njani? – (Good morning) – You start with Li when you are greeting an elderly person, a senior or someone who is older
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than you. The opening is used to show respect to an older person. Uvuke njani? – (Good morning) – You start with U when you are greeting a friend, sibling, a youth or somebody at your level. Ibizo lakho ngubani? – (What is your name?) Lihlala ngaphi? – (Where do you stay?) – Once again Li is used to show respect to an elderly person. Uhlala ngaphi? – (Where do you stay?) – Once again U is used when you are greeting a youth, friend, sibling or somebody at your level. Ngiyakuthanda – (I love you) Ufunani? – (What do you want?) Litshone njani – (How was your day?) – Once again Li is used to show respect to an elder Utshone njani - (How was your day?) – Once again U is used when you are talking to a youth, friend, sibling or somebody at your level. Salibonani? – (How are you?) – Here Li is used to show respect when greeting an elderly person but it’s not an opening phrase. Sabona? – (How are you?) – You omit the Li when it’s a casual greeting i.e. when talking to a youth, friend, sibling or someone at your level. Uvela ngaphi? – (Where are you coming from? The phrase is also used to ask your hometown or village depending on the conversation). Ekhaya kungaphi? – (Which village or town do you come
from?) Emashops kungaphi bhudi? – (Where are the shops my brother?) – Here an English word “shops” is combined with Ndebele. You will find such combinations in towns and locations. Ngicela ungitshengise indlela yakoBulawayo – (Can you please show me the way to Bulawayo) Ngicela ukubuza – (Can I please ask you something?) Uyangaphi? – (Where are you going?) Ngicela amanzi okunatha – (Can you please give me some water to drink) Asambe edolobheni – (Let’s go to town) Ngiyakwazi – (I know) Ungaboqamba amanga – (Don’t tell lies) Ulamanga – (You are lying) Ngithunywe ngubaba ukuzothatha imali – (My father sent me to take some money) Ubaba lo uyahlupha kakhulu – (This man is very troublesome) Uyangidelela – (You take me for granted or you don’t respect me) singular term Uyasidelela – (You take us for granted or you don’t respect us) plural Uyadelela – (You don’t respect) Uyaduba wena - (You are troublesome) Inganekwane – (a folktale or story for kids)
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List of Male & Female Ndebele Names and their Meaning Notes***English translation in brackets Zamani (try) male Zibusiso (blessings) male+female Ziboniso (visions) male Sakhile (we built) female Bongani (thank you) female Bunjiwe (beautifully built,attractive) female Siyabonga (thank you) male Dalubuhle (born beautiful) female Sibongile (thank you) female Sibusisiwe (we are blessed) female Sibusiso (a blessing) female Sibangani (what are we fighting for?) male Senzangakhona () male Sibangilizwe (we are fighting for the country) male Smilo (character) female Ntombizodwa (girls only) female Ntombiyakhe (his girl) female Thando (love) male Thandiwe (loved) female Mandla (power/strength) male Mbuso (kingdom) male Mthandazo (prayer) male Mehluli (conquerer) male Melusi (shepard,livestock herder,cattle herder) male Mlamuleli (one who intervenes,stops fighting) male Mlamuli (one who intervenes,stops people from fighting) male Mthulisi (one who consoles,stops another person from crying) male Mgcini – (a keeper) male Busani (rule) male Bhekizwe (look at the country) male Zandile (many) female Zenzo (deeds) male Lindani (watch over,keep watch) male Thokozani (be happy) female+male Mandlenkosi (God’s power) male Nomalanga (sun) female Simangaliso (miracle/wonder) female Silibaziso (distraction/something that keeps you entertained/relaxed/makes you forget/diverts your mind) female Xolani (forgive) male Xolisani (ask for forgiveness) female Zodwa () female Celani (ask) male Gcinukuthula (keep the peace) male Qalani (start/provoke) Likhwa () male Thabani (be happy) male Thulani (be quiet) male Nokuthula (peace) female Lingadani (don’t be sad) female Ndabicacile (the story is clear) male Ayanda (they are multiplying/increasing) female Zandile (they are many) female Zanele (enough) female Zinhle (beautiful) female Nhlanhla (luck) male Samukeliso () female Jabulani (enjoy/celebrate/have fun) male Bhekimpilo (look at life/confront life) male Philani (live) male Themba (hope/rely upon/trust in) male
Thembelani (have hope/put your trust in) male Sikhumbuzo (reminder) make Sithandazile (we prayed) female Langa (sun) male Langelihle (beautiful day) male+female Ntokozo (celebration,fun,joy) male Ntando (will) male Ntandoyenkosi (will of God) male Nhlalo (lifestyle) male Nonhlanhla (luck) female Nomagugu (precious) female Gugulethu (our treasure / our precious one) female Sthandisiwe () female Sthandekile (we are loved) female Thandazani (pray) male Mqabuko () male Nqinekile () male Bekithemba (have hope in) male Nomaqhawe (heroine) female Lifa (Inheritance)male Lifalakhe (His/her inheritance) male Andile (they are many) male Anele (they are enough) male Mqondisi (the one who corrects/fixes/directs/makes right) male Lungisani ( repair/fix/make right) male Qhawe (hero) male Sukoluhle (happy day) female+male Suku (day) male Ndodana (son) male Njabulo (happiness,celebration) male Khethiwe (chosen) female Ndabezinhle (good news) male Ndaba (news) male Tholumusa (find mercy/grace) male Hlengiwe (redeemed) female Sihlengisizwe (we redeem the nation) male Sitshengisiwe (we were showed) female Nothando (love) female Nomusa (mercy) female Nomathemba (hope) female Nomaqhawe (heroine) female Musa (mercy/grace) female Nkanyiso (brilliance) male Sikhanyile (we shined) female+male Gugulethu (our treasure) female Mpilo (Life) male Nosipho (gift) female Sipho (gift) male Nkululeko (freedom) male Mongameli (leader/president) male Nkathazo (troublesome) male Nkosi (king) male Snini (relative) female Butho (soldier) male Butholezwe (soldier of the nation) male Qinisile (we are sure/telling the truth) female Qinani (be strong) male Qinile (we are strong) female Nobesuthu () female Nobuhle (beauty) female Sinobuhle (we have beauty) female Buhle (beauty) female Sinqobile (we conquered) female Nqobile (we conquered) male Dumisani (praise) male Dumezweni () male Dudu () female Duduzani () female Siphathisiwe (we are forwarding/carrying /bringing something on behalf of...) female Thembelani (have faith in...) male Thembekile (faithful) female
Khumbulani (remember) male
Kwenzakwenkosi ( deed of the Lord) male Sibaliso () female Danisile () female+male Thobekile (polite ) female
Khayelihle (good home) female
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Your Zimbabwean Canadian Community Magazine
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LIFESTYLE
August/September , 2020
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August/September , 2020
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Bi-Monthly magazine available at www.zimcan263.com