VP Chiwenga Urges Zimbabwe to Reclaim the Mutapa Spirit

By Knowledge Muneri, 21 December 2025

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has called on Zimbabweans to draw inspiration from the Mutapa State's achievements, highlighting the kingdom's significant contributions to global trade and civilization. Historians have revealed that the Mutapa State, which existed in modern-day Zimbabwe, was a formidable society that had established a sophisticated economic ecosystem, with India relying heavily on it for trade.

The Mutapa State's influence extended beyond Africa, with the kingdom having a presence in India and China before the British. VP Chiwenga emphasized the importance of acknowledging this history, stating that it brings joy to know how seriously and highly regarded Zimbabwe used to be ².

"We need to summon this trailblazing spirit for the economic development of our country," VP Chiwenga said. He added that Zimbabwe was already spreading civilization when the British occupied the country in the 19th century .

VP Chiwenga's visit aims to challenge historical narratives that depict Zimbabwe and Africa as uncivilized before colonization. National Archives of Zimbabwe director Ms. Brenda Mamvura noted that Indian records show the Mutapa State was a key global economic player, and Indians feared invasion from the Mutapa.

"We collaborated with the Portuguese not as a colony, but as trading partners... We purchased weapons, rifles and clothing using our gold and ivory. We were quite a formidable society," VP Chiwenga said .