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Zimbabwean

3 min read 4 views Updated December 20, 2025 2.0/10

Zimbabwean

The term "Zimbabwean" refers to a person who is native or resident of Zimbabwe, a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. The country has a diverse culture, rich history, and unique geography.

Key Concepts

Zimbabwean culture is characterized by several key concepts, including:

  • Ubuntu: A philosophy that emphasizes community and interconnectedness. Ubuntu is a central concept in Zimbabwean culture, highlighting the importance of collective well-being and social harmony.
  • Imi: A traditional system of land tenure, where the chief owns all land within his territory. The imi system has been influential in shaping Zimbabwe's agricultural practices and economic development.
  • Kupira: A concept that refers to the act of taking a gift or offering from someone to avoid conflict or maintain social harmony.

Technical Details

The following are some technical details about Zimbabwean culture:

Population density 42 people per square kilometer (109 people per square mile)
GDP per capita $2,400 (2020 estimate)
Life expectancy at birth 64.5 years (2019 estimate)

Economic Factors

Zimbabwe's economy has been shaped by various factors, including:

  1. Copper mining: Zimbabwe was once a major copper-producing country, with the industry contributing significantly to the national economy. However, the industry declined in the 1990s due to environmental degradation and international sanctions.
  2. Agriculture: Agriculture is a significant sector in Zimbabwe's economy, with crops such as cotton, tobacco, and maize being major exports. The agricultural sector has also been impacted by climate change and soil degradation.

Cultural Heritage

Zimbabwe's cultural heritage includes:

  • Stone monuments: The country is famous for its ancient stone monuments, including the Great Zimbabwe ruins. These structures are a testament to the region's rich history and cultural significance.
  • Dance and music: Traditional dance and music in Zimbabwe include the Ndauwa (a traditional mask dance) and the Soka (a type of drumming). These art forms play an important role in Zimbabwean culture and are often used to express emotions and tell stories.

Impact/Significance

Zimbabwean culture has had a significant impact on:

  1. Africa's development: As the second-largest country in Africa, Zimbabwe plays an important role in regional development and trade. The country's cultural heritage is also an integral part of Africa's rich diversity.
  2. Globalization: Zimbabwean culture has been influenced by globalization, with many young people adopting Western values and customs. This has led to a complex mix of traditional and modern practices in the country.

Zimbabwean culture is connected to:

  • African culture: Zimbabwe's cultural heritage is an integral part of Africa's rich diversity, with many similarities and differences between different cultures.
  • Southern Africa: The region has a shared history and cultural context that influences Zimbabwean culture. Other countries in the region include Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique, and Zambia.

References & Further Reading

Related Topics

The earliest known human habitation in Zimbabwe dates back to around 300 BCE, with evidence of Bantu-speaking peoples. The region was later influenced by the Ndebele and Shona tribes, who arrived from present-day Mozambique and Zambia around the 16th century CE.

  1. 1500s: The Ndebele tribe, also known as the Mwene Mambos, established themselves in present-day Zimbabwe. They were skilled warriors and traders, and their culture had a significant impact on the region's history.
  2. 1600s: The Shona tribe, who arrived from present-day Mozambique and Zambia, began to settle in the area. The Shona developed a complex society with a strong tradition of agriculture, trade, and spirituality.
  3. 1888: The British South Africa Company was granted a charter by Queen Victoria to exploit the region's natural resources, including gold, ivory, and cotton. This led to increased European presence in Zimbabwe, which would ultimately shape the country's modern identity.

References / Further Reading

The following resources provide further information on Zimbabwean culture:

Sources

The following sources were referenced in the creation of this article. Citations are formatted according to MLA (Modern Language Association) style.

  1. 1.
    "Zimbabwe: A History of the Country." zimbabwesource.com, https://www.zimbabwesource.com/Zimbabwe/History_of_Zimbabwe. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
  2. 2.
    "Country Profile: Zimbabwe." cia.gov, https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/zz.html. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
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