The Kalanga People of Zimbabwe: A Comprehensive Exploration
Ka-Spirit, consciousness, life force
LaNga-the sun/San. It must be mentioned clearly at the very beginning that the Kalanga nation is not Ndebele in their history but the politics of Mzilikazi's arrival impacted their long history. Similarly to Shaka Mzilikazi's wars in the South settled in their area and merged their culture to that of the amalgamated 'Ndebele' culture. It is safe to submit that many who now identify as present Ndebele are in fact Kalanga by origin. All it takes is an objective anthropologist is the sound of their drum, compare it to the Karanga drum, language, KoiSan dressing and dance and answers are there. Take the Zulu drum rhythm, dressing and compare the 'Ndebele' and another similarity avails itself.
The spirit of the Sun/San or the one belonging to the Sun/San. The present Ndebele Nation is a Mixed salad of the indegenous KoiSan, Kalanga/Ndebele, Tswana, Zulu, Sotho, Swati, Shona with the northern Nambya/Lozwi/Rozwi, Venda and Tsonga.
The Kalanga people, also known as BaKalanga, are a southern Bantu ethnic group primarily residing in Matebeleland, Zimbabwe, with significant populations in northern Botswana and parts of the Limpopo Province in South Africa. As one of the largest ethnolinguistic groups in the region, their unique culture, language, and contributions to Zimbabwe's history warrant a closer examination.
Theories of Formation
Exploring the Three Theories of Kalanga Formation
1. **Bantu Migration Theory early migration before the Karanga and the Nguni
This theory proposes that the Kalanga people are descendants of early Bantu-speaking people who migrated from West Africa and settled in the region. Linguistic evidence supports this theory, as TjiKalanga, the language spoken by the Kalanga people, belongs to the Western Shona branch of the Shona group of languages, which can be traced back to the Bantu language family. Additionally, archaeological findings, such as pottery and iron tools dating back to the 11th century, align with the timeline of Bantu migration into southern Africa.
2. Intermarriage Theory (estimated timeline: pre-11th century
According to this theory, the Kalanga people emerged from intermarriages between indigenous San people and early Bantu settlers. The earliest evidence of human presence in the region dates back to the Late Stone Age, approximately 30,000 years ago. Archaeological evidence, such as rock art and stone tools found in Matobo Hills, attests to the presence of San hunter-gatherers in the area before Bantu-speaking farmers arrived. This theory suggests that interactions between these two groups led to the formation of the Kalanga people, integrating elements of both cultures.
3. Karanga Common Ancestry Theory
This theory argues that the Kalanga and Karanga people share a common ancestry, stemming from a shared cultural heritage and historical experiences. Linguistic similarities between TjiKalanga and ChiKaranga languages support this hypothesis. Both languages belong to the Western Shona branch, indicating a shared linguistic origin. Additionally, oral traditions and cultural practices, such as ancestor worship and traditional healings, are common to both groups, suggesting a shared ancestral heritage. However, it is important to note that historical divergences and separate migrations may have contributed to the development of distinct cultural identities over time.
While each hypothesis has its strengths and supporting evidence, a comprehensive understanding of Kalanga formation may involve elements of all these theories. Further research and analysis, particularly in the fields of archaeology, linguistics, and genetics, can contribute to a more complete picture of the Kalanga people's rich history.
According to some sources, the Kalanga people are divided into 12 major tribes, which include:
* Bakalanga who identify as (BaLozwi)
* BaLobedu
* BaNambya
* Vhavenda
* BaTalawunda
* BaLilima
* BaPfumbi
* BaLemba vaRemba (my grandmother)
* BaLembethu
* BaTswapong
* BaTwamambo
* BaTembe (Mthembu)
* Babirwa
* BaShangwe
Each tribe is further subdivided into clans, which are led by chiefs. The Kalanga people have a rich history and culture, having inhabited their current regions for over a thousand years. Their language has two varieties: TjiKalanga (or Kalanga) in western Zimbabwe and Ikalanga in northeastern Botswana. Together with the Nambya language, these varieties form the western branch of the Shona/Karanga group of languages.
Surnames and Totems
1) Moyo/Rozvi/Dewa (Heart): Includes variants Pelo, Mbilu, Nhliziyo, Mthunzi, Nkiwane, and Tshuma (Chuma)
2) Ndlovu/Samanyanga/Zhou (Elephant): Includes variants Ndou, (ThohoyaNdou/Sororezhou) Tlou, Zhowu, and Hhowu
3) Sibanda/Banda (Lion): Includes variants Shumba, Tjibanda, Tau, Motaung, and Sebata
4) Ngwenya/Gushungo/Mtimande (Crocodile): Includes variants Mokoena, Ngwena, and Kwena
5) Dube Mbonambi(Zebra): Includes variants Ndlovu and Nyambose
6) Khumalo (Buffalo): Includes variants Mthembu, Themba, and Nkomo
7) Dlodlo (Snake): Includes variants Dhladhla and Tswana
8) Mpofu/Mhofu (Eland): Includes variants Mbambo and Bamuza
9) Ncube (Monkey/baboon shoko, tswene, kgabo, motsweneng Ncube, Nkambule, skosana. Ncube also has a (Hippopotamus varient ): Includes variants Mncube and Nkabinde
10) Masuku (Cow): Includes variants Ndlovu and Madikizela (sounds like winnie Mandela)
11. Mlambo/Dziva/Mbedzi (the river or pool) Ndau-Shangani/Venda and Lobedu. common ancestor, Musikavanthu, is highly respected as a rainmaker and the earthly embodiment of the Creator.
12. Mkhacani Wisani Baloyi adds that "Baloyi, Mathebula or Mkansi are kalanga and the descedents of Changamire Dombo ...the (Rozvi) and when we praise we call ourselves ba-rozvi"
Kalanga have totems formed from body parts is indeed a fascinating aspect of their culture. These totems, such as Gumbo and Moyo, demonstrate a deep connection between the Kalanga and their bodies, as well as a shared heritage with other groups like the Nguni.
Tjumas, Chuma/Tshumas among other ethnic groups like the Nambya and Shona reveals a history of migration, interaction, and cultural exchange. There is a cross-cultural blending which leads to shared traditions, practices, and even totems, which could explain the similarities between Kalanga/Karanga and Nguni totems.
Kalanga Culture and Contributions
The Kalanga people have a rich cultural heritage characterized by their unique language, religious practices, and artistic expressions. The Kalanga people's religion is a unique blend of ethnic spiritual practices, centered around ancestor worship, belief in a supreme god (Mwali), and the performance of music and dance rituals, such as rainmaking ceremonies, wosana, mayile, mazenge, and ndazula. They also have "Badimo", which reflects Northern Basotho ties. These practices serve as a means to communicate with their ancestors, heal, and celebrate their cultural identity. Their language, TjiKalanga or Ikalanga, is a member of the Western Shona branch of the Shona group of languages. Despite being the third most spoken language in Zimbabwe, TjiKalanga is often overshadowed by Ndebele and Central Shona languages.
Artistically, the Kalanga people are renowned for their pottery, woodcarving, and basket weaving. These crafts showcase intricate designs and patterns that reflect their deep connection with the natural world. Their vibrant music and dance styles are an integral part of their cultural identity, often featuring mesmerizing rhythms and call-and-response vocals.
The Kalanga people have made numerous contributions to Zimbabwe's sociopolitical landscape. Historically, they played a crucial role in the resistance against colonial powers, notably the Rozvi Empire, and Ndebele, later, British colonial rule. Today, they continue to advocate for their cultural rights and recognition as a distinct ethnic group within Zimbabwe.
Relationship with the Karanga
The relationship between the Kalanga and Karanga people is complex and intertwined. Some scholars argue that they share a common ancestry, while others maintain that they developed distinct cultural identities through separate migrations and historical experiences. But in sll these arguments Njelele/Matopos, the drum, the dress and Language places them on the same sanctuary. Despite these differences, there is evidence of cultural exchange and intermarriage between the two groups, resulting in shared linguistic, religious, and artistic practices.
Famous Kalanga Figures
Several prominent figures of Kalanga descent have made significant contributions to the world:
Joshua Nkomo (father of the Nation) was a member of the Kalanga tribe. Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo (1917-1999) was a prominent Zimbabwean nationalist leader and the founder of the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU). He played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence from British colonial rule and white minority government. Nkomo was a proud representative of the Kalanga people, advocating for their rights and recognition throughout his political career. The Ndandwe (royal) Zulus/Ndebele should have capitalised on Nkomo's influence to unite the Ndebele Nation.
Solomon Mujuru: A Zimbabwean military leader and politician who played a critical role in the country's independence struggle.
Dumi Ndlovu: A highly-acclaimed Zimbabwean sculptor known for his unique stone carvings.
Gogo Dineo Ndlanzi, a prominent and pioneering sangoma (traditional healer) from South Africa. She is known for her work in merging African spirituality with modern thinking, and is respected as a spiritual teacher, life coach, African storyteller, actress, writer, dancer, and trained facilitator.
Vimbai Nyemba: A Zimbabwean-born American physicist and innovator in the field of renewable energy.
Nduduzo Makhathini: A South African jazz musician and healer who incorporates traditional Kalanga elements into his music.
Jonathan Moyo,! a prominent political figure in Zimbabwe, has previously served as Minister of Higher Education and as Minister of Information and Publicity.
The Kalanga people of Zimbabwe exemplify a remarkable and vibrant cultural mosaic that has significantly enriched the country's historical and contemporary landscape. Their unique language, religious practices, and artistic expressions contribute to the diverse tapestry that defines Zimbabwe's identity. The resilience and enduring presence of the Kalanga in the face of adversity underscore their inherent strength as a people. As we continue to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Kalanga and other groups, it is imperative to recognize our shared humanity and interconnectedness.
This recognition calls for unity, understanding, and the celebration of our collective cultural diversity. By embracing and learning from the cultural wealth offered by the Kalanga and other communities, we can foster a more inclusive and enriched society that values and preserves the traditions, knowledge, and wisdom of its diverse people.
FoT
Farmers of Farmers
References :
Kalanga narratives, insights into their history, culture, and society:
1) "Kalanga in Historical Perspective" by Thembani Dube, published on Oxford Research Encyclopedia of African History.
2) "The Cultural and Historical Significance of Kalanga Place Names in Bulilima District, Matebeleland South Province, Zimbabwe" by Crispen Tshuma, published in the Journal of Language and Social Sciences.
3) "Stories and poems" on Kalanga.org, a website dedicated to preserving Kalanga culture and history.
4) "Bibliographies: 'Kalanga (African people)'" on Grafiati, a comprehensive list of scholarly sources on Kalanga people.
5) "Njelele: Our shrine together" on Kalanga2.rssing.com, a blog post discussing Kalanga kings and lineage.
6) "The Kalanga in Historical Perspective" by Thembani Dube, available on ResearchGate.
7) "Kalanga History and Culture" on TG Silundika Cultural Community Centre's website.
8) "Bibliography of Kalanga History and Culture" on Kalanga.org, listing important scholarship on Kalanga history and culture.
9) "Atibaleni—Lukwal Gokutanga Gwebana (Kalanga Primer — 1st Book for Children)" published by Zimbabwe Ministry of Education, available on Kalanga.org.
10) "Who are the Kalanga, or Bakalanga, BaNambya and Vhavenda?" on Kalanga.org, providing information on Kalanga identity and ancestry.
Kalal
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