There is one contemporary Zimbabwean writer who has wrestled more than most with the bear of African identity. His name is Dambudzo Marechera, and I met him once in Harare: slight, bespectacled, and cursed with a most terrible affliction for one so enamoured of words ā a maddening stutter. Later, when I try to write about him, I find that there are many different versions of his life. Just like my fatherās, Marecheraās biographical facts changed like the njuzu, the mythical manfish that populates his writing and is constantly altering its form. As a boy, Marechera scavenged the local rubbish dump for old books and magazines tossed away by the white community. His father, a mortuary assistant, was run down and killed by a car when Dambudzo was in his second year of a scholarship at St. Augustineās, an Anglican mission school in the eastern Highlands. His mother turned to prostitution to make ends meet. Marechera was expelled from the University of Rhodesia for taking part in student protests in the dog days of the white regime. But he went on to Oxford. Like a great river, education seemed to swirl him downstream, farther and farther from his roots, marooning him on a cultural sandbar far from the banks of belonging. He felt within himself a number of different identities, and it was the conflict between these that he mined to such good effect. Even as he castigated himself as āa keen accomplice in my own mental colonizationā for his enthusiasm for Western education, he remained unapologetic about his catholic thirst for literature. He wanted to escape the ghetto of āAfricanā writing to claim a broader, universal canvas.
When a Crocodile Eats the Sun: A Memoir of Africa
Today, on International Men's Day, Eleven Dogs Inc. honors the incredible strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of men across Zimbabwe. This is a day to celebrate not only the achievements but also the silent battles that shape our lives.
To our fathers, brothers, sons, and friends your roles are pivotal. You are the pillars of our communities, the guardians of our families, and the silent warriors who fight daily battles with grace and dignity.
In Zimbabwe, where the journey of manhood is uniquely challenging, we recognize the importance of mental health, emotional resilience, and community support. Let us break the stigma around vulnerability and remind each other that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
We stand together in acknowledging the pressures faced by men today, from societal expectations to the silent struggles that often go unnoticed. Yet, it is through these challenges that true character is forged. Letās continue to uplift each other, sharing wisdom, providing support, and fostering an environment where every man feels valued and understood.
At Eleven Dogs Inc., we believe in the power of unity and the strength of community. As we celebrate today, let's commit to being there for one another, creating safe spaces where men can express, heal, and grow.
To every man in Zimbabwe, remember that you are not alone. Your story is powerful, your journey is meaningful, and your presence is invaluable. Let's celebrate the men we are and the men we aspire to be.
Hereās to strength, resilience, and the enduring spirit of brotherhood. Happy International Men's Day.
Eleven Dogs Inc is a passionate and dedicated team committed to delivering top-notch productions to their clients. With a focus on quality and creativity, they bring a unique blend of expertise and innovation to every project.
Director @henryhakula
Colorist & Editor @PanacheZw
Join us on an exclusive journey behind the camera as Eleven Dogs Inc brings the RBZ commercial to life! From scouting locations to capturing the perfect shots, our talented crew worked tirelessly to make magic happen. The energy on set was electric, fueled by laughter, camaraderie, and a shared passion for storytelling.
But it wasnāt all serious business!
Directed by @henryhakula
Deception comes in many forms: omission, denial, exaggeration, and self-serving lies. Remember, trust is precious handle it with care https://t.co/xpMaWPxdN5
Patience is crucial for leaders. @NomalisoN on #TheBoldExchange https://t.co/6LhloD7gGy
Rulani Ronaldo Panyaza Gauteng #BornIntoFame Ndebele Shona Thabo Bester Authur Zwane Harare CBD Mike Chimombe Chamisa Winky D
As we navigate the complexities of life, itās crucial to recognize thatĀ menās mental healthĀ is just as vital as physical well-being. Men often face societal pressure to āman upā or ātough it out.ā However, feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed isĀ not a sign of weakness. Itās essential to break the silence and seek help when needed. Men may exhibit symptoms differently, such as escapist behavior, physical complaints (like headaches), or misuse of alcohol/drugs.
Remember,Ā youāre not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Letās create a world where menās mental health receives the attention it deserves.
I'm at a point in life where I just want to be very quiet. Iām not interested in being overstimulated. I would rather chill at home and do yoga than party. I love stuff that leaves meaning on my spirit, and I only want to surround myself with the same kind of people.
I genuinely do not believe people treat you how they feel about you. I believe they treat you based on the state of mind they're in. Some people unintentionally hurt you because they are at war with themselves suffering, and suffering with things that has nothing to do with you.
I honestly don't want to be strengthened by difficult situations and be tested anymore. I'm tired. I want soft experiences that teach me the grace and gentleness of the Universe towards me.
Grateful to have attended the 56th African Min's of Finance and Economic Development meeting #UNECA, I gained valuable insights into the economic and financial landscape of Africa. It was a privilege to hear from such a diverse range of voices. Also met James Manyika of @GoogleAI
Zimbabweās Secondary Education system is being reformed to a bias fostering Critical thinking, Innovation, Creativity, Problem Solving and Programming. This is a shift from a system with a bias to memorization and regurgitation.
#PostCabinetBriefing
The Nation is informed that the 2024 Independence Anniversary and Children's Party Celebrations will be held in Manicaland Province. The Nation is further Informed that Murambinda B Secondary School will host the 2024 Independence Anniversary Celebrations; Murambinda A Primary School will host the Children's party , while Murambinda B Primary School will host the Independence Anniversary Gala.
#PostCabinetBriefing
Cabinet recieved and approved the Heritage-Based Education 2024-2030 Curriculum Framework which is expected to transform the education system in order to produce citizens with relevant skills,applied knowledge, values and dispositions that are key to national development, beginning with the communities they serve. The Primary and Secondary Education System is being designed to mould productive learners who will cherish and practice the Zimbabwean philosophical orientation of Unhu/Ubuntu/Vumunhu.
The proposed curriculum will embrace Heritage as a basis for learning and infusing technology, and shall be implemented from ECD up to Upper Secondary level. The pathways whose learning areas are provided for in framework, are Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); Visual Performing Arts; Humanities especially the history of Zimbabwe; Technical/Vocational Education and Training (TVET); and Commercials.
#PostCabinetBriefing
#Education5.0