President Emmerson Mnangagwa has received the last of the Zimbabwe Birds, a priceless national artifact taken from the country during the colonial era marking a deeply historic and emotional moment for the nation.
The return brings closure to a cultural injustice that stretches back more than a century. The Zimbabwe Bird, a revered symbol of national identity and heritage, is among several sacred artifacts removed during colonial rule and now finally repatriated.
The artifact, along with eight ancestral human remains, was returned from South Africa following high-level engagements between President Mnangagwa and his counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa. The soapstone birds were originally taken from Great Zimbabwe during colonial plunder more than 100 years ago.
The repatriation comes just days before Zimbabwe commemorates 46 years of independence, adding profound symbolic value to this year’s celebrations.
President Mnangagwa said the return of the artifact and ancestral remains represents a restoration of dignity, identity and historical justice.
“This is a historic development which will be etched in the rich history of our country. It is opportune that this ceremony is occurring a few days before the 46th Independence Day Anniversary. Profound joy and triumphant closure envelope the nation, as we welcome home our ancestral relics consisting of the Chapungu, being the eighth and last soapstone Great Zimbabwe Bird,” he said.
“For far too long, this vital piece of our national soul and dignity resided in a foreign land, a testament to colonial plunder that sought to strip us of our identity. Our calls for justice have echoed through generations and today, the answer has come.”
The President expressed gratitude to President Ramaphosa, the African National Congress, and the people of South Africa for facilitating the return, describing it as a powerful demonstration of Pan-African unity and solidarity.
He also reaffirmed Government’s commitment to ensuring all Zimbabwean cultural artifacts held abroad are eventually returned.
“My Government will continue to ensure that Zimbabwe’s rich heritage is freed from hostage in foreign museums, public spaces and private galleries. Our forbearers did not merely carve these birds as decorations, they are sacred and represent the bateleur eagle, Chapungu, which held deep spiritual significance.”
He noted that the Zimbabwe Bird remains a central national symbol, appearing on the national flag, coat of arms and the ZiG currency.
“To have all eight bird artefacts reunited is a political victory and a cultural homecoming. It is a powerful recognition that our heritage belongs here, at Great Zimbabwe, where it can inspire future generations,” President Mnangagwa said.
The President urged the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe to preserve and protect the sacred artefacts at the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, the heart of the country’s ancient civilisation under the Munhumutapa Empire.
“Let the people of Zimbabwe come and witness their heritage. Let the children of this great nation see with their own eyes the symbol of their identity,” he said.
As Zimbabwe prepares to mark 46 years of independence, the return of this iconic artefact and ancestral remains reconnects the nation with its past while reinforcing the enduring ties between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The Zimbabwe Bird will now be preserved as part of the country’s national heritage, a lasting emblem of resilience, cultural pride and sovereignty.
Zimbabwe should pursue more of these priceless national artifact for the restoration of heritage.