The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Tourism Correspondent
THE majestic Matendera tourism monument is one of the most impressive stone walled structures in Buhera and forms part of the Buhera cluster of sites which also comprises Chiwona, Muchuchu and Kagumbudzi.
The name Matendera, derived from the Shona word tenderera, refers to a circular movement. It is also believed that the name could have been derived from the ‘Dendera’ bird which is commonly found in the area.
Matendera’s design is circular and archaeologists believe that the same cultural grouping that constructed the Great Zimbabwe is the one that constructed Matendera.
The Rozvi people are often associated with Matendera and the existence of the grave of the last known chief of the VaRozvi clan, one who was known as Tohwechipi, buttresses the point.
The monument is thought to be among several other offshoots of the Great Zimbabwe and has been dated between 1700AD-1800AD.
This comparatively well preserved monument lies about 50km south-east of Buhera. It can be accessed through the gravel road linking Murambinda and Birchenough Bridge and is within a stone’s throw away from Ruti Dam. This can provide diverse tourism experiences for visitors.
A local guide from the Department of National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) is always ready to assist.
“We usually come here to feel the serene and fresh breeze of Ruti Dam before reaching the majestic Matendera, which is so popular here among villagers.
“We usually receive scores of visitors, some from outside the country, This monument needs to be marketed more at the global level,” said a Buhera villager, Rekai Chifokoso.
The monument lies on the summit of a low granite hill, more or less bare of vegetation, and consists of a roughly oval enclosure bounded by a substantial stone wall built of granite blocks. Just like those at Great Zimbabwe, the blocks were laid without mortar.
The wall is continuous except to the north-east where there is a considerable gap which appears to have formed the entrance. On the south-western face of the girdle wall are good examples of wall decoration, with the herring bone pattern more prominent. The area within the outer walls is divided into separate enclosures and the remains of dagga hut foundations can be noted as you go up the hill.
To help create more awareness about the monument, the NMMZ, Buhera’s Rural District Council and other stakeholders have been hosting an annual cultural event dubbed the Matendera Festival.
The festival is a celebration of the heritage of the people of Buhera (Vahera) through their native dances such as Jaka, drama and poetry.
Indeed, the district is endowed with rich cultural resources.
