Until recently, funerals were the principal occasions when Ireland’s Zimbabweans would get together. But with the formation of a new group representing all Zimbabweans living in Ireland, more community events are set to follow, writes Viktor Posudnevsky
It is estimated that around 3,000 Zimbabweans have made Ireland their home, and yet the majority are totally in the dark about each other’s existence. There are more than 10 major ethnic groups in Zimbabwe, and as many languages and dialects – all of which are represented here, Zimbabweans say, which can make it difficult to connect with each other.
The biggest ethnic groups are the Shona and Ndebele, and most smaller groups fall within these two broad categories. The Ndebeles have historically been oppressed by Shona rulers (Robert Mugabe’s party is made up chiefly of Shonas). That is the reason why there are more Ndebeles than Shonas in Ireland, believes Johannes Nyawata, chairman of the newly elected steering board of the Zimbabwean Community Network Ireland (ZCNI).
Once abroad, however, such ethnic differences and historical grudges are forgotten. The Zimbabwean community in Ireland embraces all backgrounds, religions and political persuasions as long as you are born in Zimbabwe, say the founders of the ZCNI. The network was launched at the start of this year with the aim of helping Ireland’s Zimbabweans to integrate, and coming to the aid of those members who most need it. It will also act as a social club, organising events for all Zimbabweans to participate.
Previously there was only one such event that would gather Zimbabweans from across the country: a funeral. This southern African nation has many traditions connected with burying its dead, even more than the Irish. Nobuhle Ncube remembers a recent funeral in Athlone: “People came from all over Ireland and we formed a big procession. We also sang all the way as we carried the coffin from the funeral parlour to the burial ground.”
But with the new community network in place, Zimbab-weans living in Ireland are set to have many more events where they can get to know each other. Some of the biggest will probably occur on 18 April when Zimbabweans celebrate their Independence Day.
“We have many holidays in Zimbabwe,” says Masimba Mwadiwa, an engineer. “But many of them hold more significance for one ethnic group than for another. Only Independence Day is equally important for all. Back home it’s a huge celebration.”
So this April watch out for a big party, Zimbabwe style.
