Rituals gone wrong

A sombre cloud of shock and grief fell over Nyachowa Falls following the tragic drowning of Vernon Ndemadzirwa (31) of Chinhoyi, who reportedly lost his life while performing traditional manjuzu rituals at the famed site.

According to Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, acting provincial police spokesperson, the incident occurred on September 14 around 5pm when Ndemadzira, from Hore Village under Chief Zvimba, entered the waters alongside three other men for ritual purposes linked to a gold mining venture. His body was recovered five days later.

The traditional leadership, led by Headman Chigodora, has since begun cleansing rituals at the falls to restore spiritual harmony, temporarily closing the site to visitors. Ndemadzira, described as a regular ritualist at Nyachowa Falls, was accompanied by his younger brother, Ryan Tinofara Hore (21), and two other men on the day of the incident.

Nyachowa Falls, located 12km from Mutare City, is renowned for its spiritual significance, with local folklore speaking of mermaids and hidden treasures beneath its waters. Initially, local traditional leaders believed Ndemadzira had been taken by a mermaid and would return. However, his body was later recovered, showing no visible injuries, and a post-mortem confirmed drowning as the cause of death.

Headman Chigodora emphasised that the tragedy stemmed from reckless behaviour rather than mythical forces. "While faith is essential, the river's power demands respect. Regrettably, the deceased was drinking beer and should not have been near the water. His untimely death was not caused by mermaids," he said. The traditional leader also noted that cleansing ceremonies were necessary to restore the falls' sanctity and maintain spiritual balance.

Eyewitnesses and officials highlighted that the group brought alcohol into the sacred site, violating established rules prohibiting items such as beer and rice except for ritual purposes. Garikai Chidano, responsible for overseeing the falls, said that Ndemadzira appeared intoxicated upon entering the water and initially struggled, prompting concerns among attendants.

Local tour guide Tadiwanashe Matongera added that the group refused to pay the full entrance fee, paying only US$3 instead of the required US$8, and had a history of frequent visits to perform rituals.

The tragic incident serves as a cautionary tale about the need to balance spiritual practices with safety, respecting both the sacredness of Nyachowa Falls and the inherent dangers of its waters. Ndemadzira was subsequently buried in Chitungwiza on Monday.

Authorities and traditional leaders continue to urge visitors to observe the rules of conduct at sacred sites and to approach ritual practices with care, avoiding intoxication or disregard for established spiritual protocols.