Zimbabwe edgy over delayed return of Nehanda skull

Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe has emphasized the need to conclude discussions on the repatriation of skulls of Zimbabwean heroes taken to Britain during the colonial era.

Speaking at the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) Strategic Planning Workshop in Harare, Kazembe urged for closure to honor the families and the nation.
The remains, believed to include those of spirit medium Mbuya Nehanda, were allegedly taken to the United Kingdom as trophies after her capture and execution by British colonial forces in 1897. Legend suggests her skull remains on display in a British museum.

"For over 30 years, we have sought the return of these human remains. It is imperative that this issue reaches its logical conclusion, providing closure for the affected families and our nation," Kazembe said.

In October, British Ambassador to Zimbabwe Peter Vowles committed to facilitating the repatriation of the remains. This development has reignited hopes for the return of artifacts and remains tied to Zimbabwe's First Chimurenga heroes, who fought against colonial rule in the 1890s.

Kazembe also launched a broader initiative to document, preserve, and promote Zimbabwe's liberation history, pledging collaboration with other nations to identify and safeguard liberation heritage sites.
"We will work closely with these nations to ensure our shared history is documented, preserved, and celebrated," he said.

The minister announced the reconstitution of the board of trustees for NMMZ, tasked with governance, policy formulation, and oversight of Zimbabwe's cultural and historical preservation efforts.
"The ship has been sailing without a captain for too long," Kazembe said, urging the board to address compliance gaps and ensure the maintenance of heritage sites both within and outside Zimbabwe.

Kazembe also stressed the importance of maintaining national shrines that commemorate the country's liberation struggle.
"My ministry expects urgent attention to the upkeep of our shrines in alignment with the expectations of our clients," he stated.

The repatriation of the remains is seen as a critical step in healing the wounds of colonial exploitation. Kazembe's call for action resonates with Zimbabweans who view the return of their ancestors' remains as a restoration of dignity and historical justice.