Tshangani people bemoan cultural imperialism?

The Tshangaani people living in Dumisa on the periphery of Kruger's Corner say their culture is on the verge of extinction and the elderly people are desperate to see their way of life return to that of yesteryears

Over 500km away from Masvingo city, tucked between the convergence of three countries; South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe is a distinct people called the Tshangaani.

They have over the years followed a unique way of life in line with their culture yet the advent of modernity is rapidly eroding their culture.

From their dressing to their way of courtship, all these facets of their life have been affected.

They say their culture has been diluted as a result of living with people from different tribes.

It was unheard of for a young man to approach a girl to propose, he was required to go through a third party, but not anymore.

The elders say the young men and women have thrown culture out of the window and are following a culture which is foreign to them and of course the elders are riled by this.

"Our children nolonger value our traditions," queried Chief Sengwe, adding that instead of following traditional procedures of courtship.

Is there hope for them to go back to their ways ? Not so, according to the young men and women in Dumisa. They believe the olden ways are  too old fashioned and they want to do things the modern ways .

But while some believe all hope is gone and their culture will soon be completely eroded, Chief Sengwe insisted that they will implement ways to save their culture

Only time will tell if this group of people in Dumisa will indeed preserve their culture.