Tembo Mazvimbakupa

Zebra

Tembo Clan
Praise Poem - Mazvimbakupa
Hekani Tembo, VokwaChivara, VokwaMudzinganisagumbo, Vari Machecheche , Machera, Rukono rwaBenhura, VokwaNemhapa, Vari Zimbabwe, Vokwa Tachiona, Nywe dzaZvezve, Maita variMandedza, VokwaKuringambizi huringa makumbo, Kumusoro kunehwara, Zvaitwa variiMandedza, Mwana waWachekwemwoyo, Aiwa zvaonekwa vokwaZiki, Vamambwa matema.
Cultural Significance

The significance lies in its symbolization of the zebra (mbizi), representing balance, harmony, and resilience through its black-and-white stripes. It marks a lineage that honors ancestors and sacred places such as Chivara, Ziki, and Mandedza, and upholds dignity, identity, and unity. Members never harm or eat the zebra, showing deep respect for the totem as a sign of their pride, protection, and connection to both land and spirit.

Speaks of balance, harmony, and resilience through the zebra (mbizi), whose black-and-white stripes remind bearers to live in peace with others and stay strong in hardship.

Quick Info

ENGLISH NAME

Zebra

CLAN

Tembo

PREVALENCE

Common Regions
Guruuswa
Eastern Manicaland
Traditional Titles

MALE TITLES

SamaitaMazvimbakupaTembo

FEMALE TITLES

Manjenjenje ganda ravasikanaChishongo chavakadziMago matemaVaTemboMazvimbakupa
Speaks of balance, harmony, and resilience through the zebra (mbizi), whose black-and-white stripes remind bearers to live in peace with others and stay strong in hardship.
— Shona Cultural Wisdom