In a solemn ceremony held in Cape Town, South Africa officially handed over the remains of eight Zimbabwean individuals taken during the colonial era, alongside a culturally significant artefact. Draped in Zimbabwean flags, the coffins symbolized a long-overdue act of restitution and respect for those whose remains had been removed without consent over a century ago.
Among the returned remains is believed to be a tribal chief whose skull was taken in 1910 for so-called scientific purposes, as well as another individual reportedly killed under accusations of witchcraft. Officials emphasized that these acts were carried out during colonial rule, reflecting a broader history of exploitation and dehumanization.
South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, described the repatriation as a moral responsibility, stressing the importance of ethical consistency in calls for the return of African heritage from abroad.
Zimbabwean authorities welcomed the gesture as deeply symbolic. Reverend Paul Bayethe Damasane highlighted its importance in restoring identity and dignity, while also strengthening ties between Zimbabwe and South Africa under President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In addition to the human remains, South Africa returned a historic soapstone sculpture of the Zimbabwe Bird, originally taken from the ancient site of Great Zimbabwe during the late 19th century. The artefact, once acquired by colonial figure Cecil John Rhodes, holds profound national significance, appearing on Zimbabwe’s flag and currency.
The original Zimbabwe Bird carvings date back to the 11th–13th centuries, representing the legacy of a powerful pre-colonial civilization. Their return, alongside the human remains, is seen as part of a broader movement to address historical injustices and restore cultural heritage.
Zimbabwean officials confirmed that the remains will be reburied with dignity upon their return, offering long-awaited closure to families and communities after more than a century.
Source: AfricaNews
