nhorwa

There is an ancient ongoing tradition where a guest would present a basket to their host on arrival.

But there’s more to it than that. The basket would have gifts – usually something special you know your host would like. Treats in the form of food, herbs, something to wear or perhaps a piece of art; something home-grown or home-made, to show your appreciation, and also a symbol of your relationship.

The presentation sets off a raucous celebration (manja, kudzana, detembo and mhururu) until finally all those gathered settle into affirmations of hekani!

In the Ndau language (my father tongue) this tradition is known as nhorwa, though the term is sometimes used to refer to the gift-bearing basket itself.

Sharing some of what I have been observing, thinking, imagining, and feeling in my nhorwa.