Who Are the Shona?
The Shona are the largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, numbering approximately 12 million (about 80% of Zimbabwe's population), with additional communities in Mozambique. They speak Shona, a Bantu language with several dialects (Zezuru, Karanga, Manyika, Ndau, Korekore). The Shona created the medieval civilization of Great Zimbabwe (11th-15th centuries), whose stone ruins demonstrate sophisticated architecture and regional power. Despite colonial efforts to deny African authorship of these ruins, archaeological evidence confirms Shona ancestors built this remarkable civilization. Contemporary Shona have shaped Zimbabwe's independence struggle and post-colonial history.
Great Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe (built 11th-15th centuries) was southern Africa's largest medieval city, home to 18,000 people at its peak. Its massive stone walls, built without mortar, demonstrate architectural sophistication. The civilization controlled gold trade, produced the famous Zimbabwe Birds (soapstone sculptures), and exerted regional influence. When Europeans discovered the ruins, many refused to believe Africans built them, attributing construction to Phoenicians or others—a denial reflecting colonial racism. Archaeological evidence definitively establishes Shona ancestors as builders. The name "Zimbabwe" derives from "dzimba dza mabwe" (houses of stone). This heritage shapes national identity.
Mbira Music
The mbira (thumb piano) is central to Shona spiritual and social life. Mbira dzavadzimu ("mbira of the ancestors") creates complex, hypnotic music for spirit possession ceremonies (bira), calling ancestral spirits (vadzimu) for guidance. Skilled players undergo training; the music's interlocking patterns require years to master. Thomas Mapfumo popularized mbira through "Chimurenga music" during Zimbabwe's independence struggle. Today, mbira music is performed traditionally and in contemporary fusion styles, gaining global audiences. UNESCO recognized the mbira tradition as intangible cultural heritage. This musical tradition represents Shona spirituality and cultural resilience.
Colonialism and Liberation
British South Africa Company colonized Shona territory (1890), creating Rhodesia. Settlers seized prime farmland; Shona were confined to "reserves." The First Chimurenga (1896-1897) saw Shona and Ndebele rebellion against colonial rule; spirit mediums led resistance. Settler-ruled Rhodesia (1965-1979) declared unilateral independence, prompting the Second Chimurenga (liberation war). Shona formed the backbone of ZANU forces led by Robert Mugabe. Independence (1980) brought majority rule but also subsequent authoritarianism, land seizures, and economic collapse under Mugabe. This history—colonialism, resistance, liberation, and disappointment—shapes Shona political consciousness.
Contemporary Shona
Modern Shona dominate Zimbabwe demographically and politically. The ZANU-PF ruling party is Shona-led; ethnic tensions with Ndebele (concentrated in Matabeleland) have historically complicated politics—including the Gukurahundi massacres (1983-1987). Zimbabwe's economic crisis (hyperinflation, emigration, poverty) affects Shona communities severely; millions have fled to South Africa and beyond. Cultural production continues: Shona sculpture (Zimbabwe sculpture tradition) achieved international recognition; mbira music persists. Land reform, initially redistributing white-owned farms, created continued agricultural challenges. How Shona navigate Zimbabwe's political and economic recovery—and relations with Ndebele—shapes the nation's future.
References
- Beach, D. N. (1980). The Shona and Zimbabwe, 900-1850
- Berliner, P. (1978). The Soul of Mbira
- Pikirayi, I. (2001). The Zimbabwe Culture: Origins and Decline of Southern Zambezian States