The shadows of colonialism haunting Zimbabwean names years after independence

A study conducted by some scholars specializing in literature, linguistics, and onomastics focused on naming practices in Zimbabwe.

This research, titled Personal Names, Naming, and Identity (Re)Negotiation among Zimbabweans in the Diaspora, published by The Conversation highlights the work of Professor Tendai Mangena, a professor of African Studies at the University of Leeds, and his colleagues.

The in-depth analysis reveals a fascinating impact of cultural colonial influence on the Zimbabwean naming system and shines a light on the enduring legacy of colonialism in the naming of Zimbabwean children and the ongoing efforts to reconnect with indigenous traditions.

Colonial relics haunting names in Zimbabwe

The prevalence of English names in modern Zimbabwe is a reflection of the profound influence of colonialism. It highlights the challenges of erasing the colonial-era mindset.

The study by these African scholars argues that British missionaries and colonisers invaded the mental space of the colonized, transforming the way English and indigenous languages were used in naming children.

English names used by the British for Zimbabwean children to assimilate them in the past, still persist in contemporary Zimbabwe.

Names in literature

The research cites literary works like Yvonne Vera’s “Butterfly Burning”, to reiterate the gradual abandonment of indigenous Ndebele language names in favour of English ones.

Names like “Gilbert”, according to the research, are more profound in the Southern African country than traditional ones like “Vulindlela” which signifies “open the way”.

The study further suggests that this cultural shift represents a form of indigenous cultural erasure, a significant component of the larger losses incurred through colonization, one that was never fully recovered years after Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980.

Naming practices in present-day Zimbabwe

Recent evidence suggests that Zimbabwean parents now incorporate both English and indigenous names for children, preserving naming practices from colonial times.

The study noted that English names in Zimbabwe fall into distinct categories from traditional ones like Ashley and Jean to Biblical names such as Isaac and Peter. Additionally, there are “Africanised Biblical” names reflecting the adaptation of Biblical names to indigenous language rules.

Zimbabwean English names like Decent and Choice, offer a unique glimpse into the potential of blending traditional African knowledge with English, revealing adaptations of traditional forms.

Some Religious names are also translated from traditional names like Takomborerwa (We have been blessed).