Chiwenga wants to draw inspiration from Mutapa exploit

Historians have revealed that the once-thriving Mutapa State, located in present-day Zimbabwe, developed a sophisticated and well-structured economic system that India relied on heavily for trade, while at the same time harbouring fears of possible invasion from the influential African power.

The revelation emerged during engagements involving historians who are part of Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga's delegation, whose visit is aimed at challenging long-standing historical narratives that portray Zimbabwe and Africa as uncivilised prior to colonisation. The visit focuses on highlighting the significant role played by Mutapa State princes in spreading Christianity and civilisation beyond Africa well before the advent of colonial rule.

National Archives of Zimbabwe director Ms Brenda Mamvura said evidence from Indian records confirms that the Mutapa State was a formidable and globally connected society. She noted that the records show the African state was a key economic player on the world stage, to the extent that India once feared a possible invasion from the Mutapa State.

"It is possible that we have contributed even more to the world beyond this narrow perspective that only colonialism enlightened us," said Ms Mamvura, adding that the findings further validate the sophistication of pre-colonial African civilisations.

Vice President Chiwenga acknowledged the importance of the revelation, describing it as both affirming and sobering for modern-day Zimbabweans and Africans. He said it was remarkable to learn that India had once feared an invasion from the African power known as the Monomotapa Empire.

"It brings joy that this is how we used to be; this is how serious and highly regarded we used to be," said VP Chiwenga. "But it also comes with mixed feelings when we reflect on where we are today."

He said narratives about Africa being civilised, organised and wealthy before colonisation now often sound like fairytales to many, yet they are rooted in historical fact. VP Chiwenga stressed that Zimbabwe and Africa must draw inspiration from that trailblazing past to drive present-day economic development.

The Vice President added that when the British occupied Zimbabwe in the 19th century, the country was already spreading civilisation beyond its borders. He noted that the Mutapa State had established a presence in India before the British arrived there and had also reached China earlier.

"This is now history, but these truths must be made clear for this generation and those to come," he said. "It should be known that we have never been a ‘dark continent'."

VP Chiwenga emphasised that Zimbabwe now stands as an equal partner on the global stage and should not be treated as a second-class player. He said the country seeks collaborative growth and mutual prosperity with the West based on equality and respect.

He further highlighted that the name Great Zimbabwe was not accidental, explaining that the Mutapa State collaborated with the Portuguese as trading partners rather than as a colony. Using gold and ivory, the state traded for weapons, rifles and clothing, underscoring its economic and political strength.

"We were quite a formidable society, which is how we ended up establishing connections with Portugal in areas like India," said VP Chiwenga, reinforcing the view that Zimbabwe's pre-colonial history reflects a powerful, organised and globally engaged civilisation.