Mangwende

Aeneas Chigwedere’s narrative on the Muturikwa family lacks sufficient research and is therefore inaccurate and flawed. He failed to research further before the colonialists arrived. The history of the Moyo Muzukuru Clan dates back to the Rozvi Empire era . Therefore to suggest that the Moyo Muturikwa clan were originally chiefs in Mangwende without a shred of evidential reference cannot be authenticated. The narrative is therefore inaccurate and cannot stand any test. Siyawamwaya a Moyo Muturikwa’s claims on Mahopo Masekwa can not claim to be associated with the ruins that were deserted by the Moyo Muzukuru Chiefs who were moved from this place by colonialists wanting to occupy prime land. This place is a shrine of the Moyo Muzukuru clan of Nhowe/Mangwende Dynasty.

Addressing the Criticism of Aeneas Chigwedere

While it is asserted that “Aeneas Chigwedere’s narrative on the Muturikwa family lacks sufficient research and is therefore inaccurate and flawed,” this claim itself rests on sources that are neither publicly available nor independently verifiable. The argument relies exclusively on "Nhowe Clan Documents," which are cited as extracted but not subjected to any rigorous external authentication or academic scrutiny. This raises important questions:

• How can the accuracy of these documents be assessed if they are not accessible for independent evaluation?
• What mechanisms exist to ensure these records have not been selectively presented, altered, or otherwise manipulated to serve a specific narrative?

Furthermore, while the narrative criticizes Chigwedere for allegedly failing to research precolonial histories, the counterclaim similarly provides no corroborative evidence beyond internal clan records, which lack external validation. Without transparent methodology or citation of additional independent historical accounts, these claims risk falling into the same category of speculative assertion for which Chigwedere is criticized.

Thus, the statement that Chigwedere's narrative "cannot stand any test" must itself withstand scrutiny. If the sources underpinning this rebuttal remain unverifiable, then the conclusions drawn from them carry no greater legitimacy than the claims they seek to discredit. Scholarly discourse requires that all claims—whether challenging or defending a historical narrative—be supported by evidence that is open to independent verification. Until such evidence is provided, the argument against Chigwedere remains speculative at best.

Chigwedere’s Authority and Scholarly Legacy

While the rebuttal dismisses Aeneas Chigwedere’s narrative as “inaccurate and flawed,” such an assertion undermines the depth of his scholarship, contributions, and authoritative expertise in Zimbabwean and African history. A closer examination of Chigwedere’s credentials and work reveals a rigorous, multidimensional approach to historical research that commands respect and credibility:

Academic Expertise

Chigwedere was the first black student admitted to the University of London’s History Honors program from Rhodesia, where he graduated in 1964. He dedicated his academic career to producing authentic histories of Zimbabwe, countering colonial narratives. His MPhil thesis on the Chimurenga War of 1896–97 offered a revolutionary reinterpretation:

• He demonstrated that the war was a unified, spiritually inspired movement led by traditional Rozvi rulers to restore sovereignty, challenging colonial portrayals of disorganized uprisings.
• His work emphasized the importance of understanding Zimbabwe's traditional social structures, spiritual leadership, and oral histories in unraveling its precolonial and anticolonial struggles.

Historical Contributions

Chigwedere’s publications, such as From Mutapa to Rhodes and The Karanga Empire, reflect an unparalleled commitment to reconstructing Zimbabwean history using oral traditions, totemic history, praise poetry, and archival research. His works bridged gaps left by colonial historians, documenting the interconnectedness of Zimbabwean clans, dynasties, and spiritual guardians.

• His ability to synthesize oral traditions with archival records provided unique insights into precolonial society.
• He traced common ancestral origins across Southern African tribes, contributing significantly to African historiography.

Educational Impact

As a historian and educator, Chigwedere played a pivotal role in shaping historical studies in Zimbabwe. His four-volume textbook series, Dynamics of History, remains a foundational resource in Zimbabwean high schools. He was the first black principal of Goromonzi High School, where he mentored numerous individuals who later became national leaders.

Traditional and Political Authority

Chigwedere’s authority extended beyond academia into traditional and political realms:

• As a descendant of the senior house of the Svosve Chieftainship, his intimate knowledge of Zimbabwean traditions and oral histories lent authenticity to his scholarship.
• His appointment as Minister of Education, Sport, and Culture underscored his role in redefining education to align with Zimbabwe’s cultural and historical identity.

Challenging the Counterclaim

The criticism of Chigwedere’s narrative fails to match the rigor of his methods. While it cites internal clan documents, these remain inaccessible and unverifiable. In contrast, Chigwedere’s scholarship is publicly available, grounded in diverse methodologies, and subject to peer evaluation.

Thus, dismissing his work as “inaccurate” without addressing his substantial contributions undermines the very principles of scholarly discourse. Chigwedere’s legacy exemplifies meticulous research and dedication to preserving and reinterpreting Zimbabwean history, placing him in a position of authority that demands greater acknowledgment.

Questioning the Credibility of the Nhowe Clan Documents

The reliance on the so-called "Nhowe Clan Documents" as the sole source of historical validation raises significant concerns regarding their credibility and authenticity. If these records are neither publicly accessible nor independently verified, how can their accuracy and integrity be trusted? Without transparency or external scrutiny, their claims remain speculative. Key questions arise:

• Verification: What independent measures have been taken to authenticate these documents? Are they corroborated by other historical or archaeological evidence?
• Objectivity: How can we ensure these records have not been selectively curated or altered to advance a particular narrative or agenda?
• Availability: Why are these documents not made publicly available for historians and scholars to evaluate?

In the absence of open access and independent authentication, these documents do not meet the standards of evidence required for rigorous historical inquiry. Consequently, any arguments based solely on these records must be viewed with skepticism, as they lack the necessary transparency to substantiate their claims.

Mangwende is a dynasty from Southern Africa, Zimbabwe commonly known as Mangwende dynasty of Nhowe or Mangwende of Nhowe. It is the royal dynasty of the Nhowe people, who are a part of the Shona tribe now living in Murewa, Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe. The Mangwende dynasty was started by the patriarch of the Nhowe people, Sakubvunza in 1606 who established the Shona traditional state of Nhowe. The name Nhowe refers to the traditional state as well as the Nhowe people.

History of the Mangwende/Nhowe Dynasty:

The origin of the Mangwende Chieftainship is traced to Rozvi Empire in Manyanya in the south of present-day Zimbabwe. The Mangwende Clan migrated from Manyanya (Centre of the Rozvi Empire) in the south to Chidima (Munhumutapa Empire) in the north. Mangwende clan then migrated southwards to Matukutu, before moving to Nhowe where it settled in present day Nhowe/Murewa.

The Mangwende Chieftainship was founded by Mushawatu who became a paramount chief under the Rozvi Changamire Kingdom. Whilst in Manyanya, Mushawatu married Nechisare, a sister to the Rozvi Changamire King and became a Rozvi Changamire brother-in-law. Mushawatu and Nechisare had two sons Nyamamvimvi and Sakubvunza. Mushawatu's totem was Nzou but his children adopted the Rozvi totem of Moyo and added the chidawo Muzukuru, meaning vazukuru va Changamire the Rozvi King. Differences later developed between Mushawatu and the Rozvi King, probably because Mushawatu was becoming too powerful and influential and a threat to the Rozvi Changamire. Mushawatu decided to move out of the Rozvi Empire and migrated north ending up in the Munhumutapa Empire. He was welcomed by Munhumutapa and was allowed to settle in Chidima in the Zambezi Valley on condition that he remained a Paramount Chief under Munhumutapa's rule. Mushawatu married Nyamita, as sister of the Munhumutapa King. Mushawatu the Paramount Chief enhanced his power by virtue of being the King's brother -in-law. He built a strong army and earned the respect of Munhumutapa. Mushawatu became a revered army general and trusted by Munhumutapa. Mushawatu's rising influence laid the foundation for the growth of the Mangwende Paramount Chieftainship in Chidima under the King of the Munhumutapa Empire. When the King died, his son Kapararidze became the new Munhumutapa king. As soon as Kapararidze became king, a civil war broke out that led to the disintegration of the Munhumutapa Empire. The Portugues interfered in the running of the Mutapa Empire and Paramount Chiefs such as Mushawatu did not like the Portuguese influence. Mushawatu decided to leave the Munhumutapa Empire and migrated southwards towards Matukutu.

Upon arrival in Matukutu, Mushawatu died, and his elder son Nyamamvimvi became Mangwende Paramount Chief. Nyamamvimvi is believed to have died fighting alonside Portuguese mercenaries who were supporting Munhumutapa. Sakubvunza became Chief Mangwende around 1606 when the Mangwende Clan were in Matukutu. Sakubvunza had 3 sons, Botyo, Gatsi and Mungate. Botyo is believed to have died without having children. Sakubvunza and his two sons, Gatsi and Mungate migrated from Matukutu to settle in Nhowe. Some records say Sakubvunza died immediately aftr leaving Matukutu and others say he died on arrival in Nhowe State. Whatever the narrative, Sakubvunza is recognised as the founder of the modern, effeicient and strong Nhowe State after conquering several clans to expand Nhowe State and consolidated his power and influence.

When Sakubvunza died, his son Gatsi succeeded his father as the new Chief Mangwende. Gatsi and Mungate continued to conquer other tribes and consolidated the Mangwende Chieftainship and expanded the Nhowe State. After Gatsi and Mungate settled the Mangwende Clan in Nhowe, the families of the two were recognised as the Royal Families of the Nhowe clan. This was the beginnning of a well-managed collateral system of succession to the Mangwende Paramount Chieftainship in Nhowe State. Gatsi is credited with leading the Mangwende to expand Nhowe State through conquering other tribes and bringing them under his rule and protection. The two Royal Houses lived side by side at Mahopo Masekwa until Mungate moved to Bokoto Hills in Mukarakate. The Mangwende army fought against many invaders from the south such as Swazi, Zvangendaba, Shanaan, Soshangane and Ndebeles. Mangwende Chieftainship co-exists peacefully with its neighbouring chieftainships and non-Nhowe clans. The Mangwende Clan is guided by the spirit mediums of Nyamita and Nehanda Nyakasikana.

The Mangwende Chieftainship employs a system of collateral succession which alternates between two houses of the dynasty. The two houses of Chieftainship lineage are Mhotani ( Bokoto ) and Hundungu ( Chitopi ) houses.

Totem

The totem of the Mangwende clan is "moyo muzukuru" which uses the bull as its symbolic animal. However, in practice, the tribe strictly holds only the heart of the animal as sacred, not the whole animal.(Moyo Muzukuru is a surbordinate title to the Rozvi)

Chieftainships: 1606-2013

Mangwende dynasty, formerly in Matandandura and Matukutu, settles in Nhowe in 1606. The chieftainship changes hands between the two lineages on the death of the sitting Chief (unless the authorities deems otherwise).

Chieftainship	Dates
Sakubvunza	1606-1631 Gatsi. 1633-1656 Mushawatu. 1657-1681 Dembetembe. 1681-1706 Mhonyera. 1707-1731 Nhuta. 1732-1756 Zemura. 1757-1781 Rota. 1783-1831 Mhotani. 1833-1857
Hundungu	1859-1878
Katerere	1878-1879
Mungate	1880-1924
Chibanda	1926-1936
Munhuwepayi	1937-1960
Enoch	1960-1968
Chibanda	1969-2013

Gatsi. ||2017-

Mhotani (Bokoto) and Hundungu (Chitopi) are the highest ranking names in modern-day history of Nhowe politics as they represent both Chieftainship (lineages) of Mungate1(Mushawatu) and Gatsi1. The names Bokoto and Chitopi houses are purely for administrative purposes. Two lineages lived in close proximity for over (3) three centuries at Mahopo Masekwa, Nyakambiri river near Marondera.

History

The Mangwende clan dominated the geographical area between Makoni and Mutoko in Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe, which then existed in the political format of traditional states. Mangwende had a fighting force that fought rival clans, and was often called to defend allies in battle. Within their territory, the Mangwende chieftainship had several sub-Chiefs of surrounding clans under their protectorate who would pledge allegiance to Chief Mangwende in return for military support if attacked by other rival Chiefs. As the paramount chief, Mangwende administered over the welfare, security and civil order of small chieftainship clans and presided in ceremonial duties.

The house of Hundungu who was chief from 1859 to 1878 was the first to assume the title of Chief Mangwende with proper Rozvi investiture. Prior to this period all Chiefs (Mambos) were called or known by their family names. It was about this time that there was a bit of animosity between the two chieftain lineages as it was alleged that the other lineage had attacked the other with a flock of bees from a charm (Gona). Katerere, father to Chiroodza and Chibanda, ruled for one year, 1878-1879 and died and was replaced by Mungate son of Hundungu, who became chief from 1880 to 1924. He was chief at the time when the white settlers arrived in Zimbabwe, then Rhodesia. They were based at Mahopo Masekwa bordering Marondera. The totem is "Moyo Muzukuru", which belongs to entire Nhowe tribe. Most of the late Mangwende chiefs are buried at the Mangwende shrine in Mahopo Masekwa. Over a period of time the Bokoto house decided to bury their chiefs at an Area called Bokoto Hills in Mukarakate, before that they were all buried at Mahopo Masekwa. Only (3) three chiefs were not buried at the Mangwende Shrine, Mahopo Masekwa, being Katerere, Enoch and Chibanda 11 (two)

Defiance of White Settlers

White colonialists arrived around the period of 1890 disguised as hunters and missionaries and settled in the territory controlled by Chief Mungate Mangwende. At about 1896, Chief Mangwende fought white settlers who tried to impose on his territory in the famous battles that became known as the 1896 rebellion.

He led his forces to defend Makoni who had also been involved in resisting white settlement rule. Chief Mungate Mangwende's oldest son, Muchemwa, through orders from his father the chief fought the colonialist white settlers in the 1896 with the (uprising) along side Mbuya Nehanda and Kaguwi. After Chief Mungate Mangwende made peace with the White settlers (authorities) in 1896 his son Muchemwa together with other members of Nhowe war council which included Sandati Mukarakate son of Jirivenge the son of Mhotani, continued to wedge a guerilla type of war as they were disgruntled with white settler rule. This war continued up to 1903 and ended in the fierce battle of Bokoto hills, which lasted several weeks. Muchemwa brokered a deal with the White Settlers (authorities) that he could only lay down his arms together with his lieutenants on condition he did not face any prosecution. The authorities agreed on one condition that he resided next to Murewa District Headquarters where he would be monitored. After the rebellion the white settlers took over the fertile land in Mahopo Masekwa and Chief Mungate was moved to a place called Rota, Chamachinda.

The village around the Murewa District Centre is known as the Mangwende Village, with most of its inhabitants being of Nhowe tribe Totem "Moyo Muzukuru". At the time of Muchemwa's death in 1909 (murdered), his father was still on the throne. At the time of his death, he left three sons, Mbumbira, Munhuwepayi, and Maiziveyi. His second son, Munhuwepayi, became a chief and ruled from 1937 to 1960. He was deposed from the chieftainship for continually disagreeing and criticizing white settlers administration decisions which was deemed to be gross insubordination. Munhuwepayi also married Helen Mangwende when she was 18. Another contributing factor for the removal of Munhuwepayi was his participation in politics in the late 1950s 60s which he did up until independence 1980, in NDP (National Democratic Party) and then ZAPU (Zimbabwe African Peoples Union) which merged with ZANU (Zimbabwe African National Union) in 1987 into one party called Zimbabwe African National Union ZANU PF. Once dethroned he was sent to detention at Gonakudzingwa Restriction Camp, (Gonakudzingwa meaning "where the banished ones sleep") in Southern Rhodesia, near the Mozambique border, which was a special detention camp for ZAPU political prisoners set up by Ian Smith's government. There were already other political prisoners of the Mukarakate house who were detained at Gonakudzingwa, such as Phineas, Anesu and others. On his release Munhuwepayi, was banished from staying or visiting Murewa and restricted to 25 km (16 mi) radius of Salisbury, now Harare. Even when his relations died he was not allowed to attend the funerals among them his own children and young brother, Maiziveyi Mangwende who died in 1971. He later died in November 1988 and was buried at the Mangwende Shrine, at Mahopo Masekwa, near Marondera. His late brother Maiziveyi's four sons Innocent, Cyril, Alois and Godfrey as immediate and direct descendants of Muchemwa lineage, performed the traditional rites for the late Chief Munhuwepayi to be buried at the Mangwende Shrine.

Enock Mvurayawira, was appointed by the settler Ian Smith's government in 1960 to replace Munhuwepayi as Chief Mangwende, after Muzanenhamo Sandati Mukarakate, the eldest son of Sandati Mukarakate in consultation with the Bokoto house advised the settlers that culturally, Bokoto house could not accept the collateral succession while a substantive Chief Mangwende was still alive. "A living Mangwende can not be replaced". This was in line with proper traditional rites which require notification of the demise of a Chief through death, which could not be performed as Munhuwepayi was still alive.

After Enock Mvurayawira's death in 1968, Jonathan Tafirenyika Chibanda, son of Chataika Chibanda of the Bokoto House was appointed Chief Mangwende in 1969. He became a member of the Chiefs Council in 1973 and was elected President of the Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs in 1991, a position he held for 15 years until he decided to step down in 2005. He successfully engaged the Government on improving the status and role of Chiefs in Zimbabwe which led to a review and improvement of various sections of the Traditional Leaders Act and other statutes governing traditional leaders. Chief Jonathan Tafirenyika Mangwende died in Pretoria, South Africa in December, 2013 and was declared a Liberation Hero for his role in assisting the struggle and coordinating support for liberation fighters during the war of liberation which culminated in the independence of Zimbabwe in 1980. He was buried at Mukarakate in with full military honors and proper traditional rites. He is remembered for his wise leadership as President of the Council of Chiefs in Zimbabwe and for strong and fair leadership of his people.

Moyo Muturikwa, and the Mangwende Chieftainship

In August 2011, the Mashonaland East Provincial Governor, Aenius Chigwedere held a meeting with the VaNhohwe Clan, led by George Farayi Siyawamwaya. VaNhohwe were seeking official resettlement at Maganga Estates where Siyawamwaya was in residence. They argued that the colonialists drove them off the land in 1945, thus official resettlement is in order.

In the meeting, Aenius Chigwedere brought to light the historical issue relating to the Mangwende Chieftainship. Mentioning that the Chieftainship belonged to Moyo Muturikwa, not Moyo Muvhima nor the incumbent Moyo Muzukuru. He clarified that Moyo Muzukuru only ascended to the throne after gaining favour from the colonialists. Prior to that, Moyo Muturikwa held the Chieftainship.

Aneas Chigwedere’s theories can not be authenticated as these are mere claims. The Nhowe Clan settled in the area before the colonialists and have held the Mangwende Chieftainship since 1606, long before colonialists came to this country. Chief Mangwende and the Nhowe Clan fought against colonial forces in the first Chimurenga alongside Mbuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi.

It is worth noting that the records, as provided, are not available to the public to authenticate. Without citable information, there can be no way to see what has been included and, or omitted. Much of the connected history between the houses is citable. But the information of the Chieftainship stands disputed. There is no way to establish the credibility of the information provided. Much of that also remains as mere claims.

References

• Extracted from the Nhowe Clan Documents available from the Clan.
• Extracted from the Nhowe Clan records available from the clan. These were previously omitted and needed to be disclosed. These are extracted from Nhowe Clan documents available from the clan.