Mbuya Nehanda Statue: Tourism Ministry Clarifies Access Restrictions
The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has issued a statement addressing a recent video circulating online featuring travel vlogger Davud Akhundzada, who was reportedly denied access to the Mbuya Nehanda Statue site in central Harare.
According to the Ministry, the Mbuya Nehanda Statue is a National Heritage Monument under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage.
The site, they said, is governed by preservation and security protocols that limit access to certain areas, including elevated or restricted zones, for safety and conservation reasons.
In the statement, the Ministry reaffirmed that the statue “stands as a proud symbol of Zimbabwe’s liberation history and identity,” representing the spirit of resistance embodied by Mbuya Nehanda, a revered spirit medium and national heroine who led uprisings against colonial rule in the late 19th century.
The Tourism Ministry also announced that it is taking proactive measures to improve visitor management at heritage sites across the country.
Through a Whole-of-Government Approach Strategy, it is working with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage to deploy tourism officers at key heritage and cultural monuments.
These officers will help facilitate informed, safe, and welcoming access for visitors while ensuring that national monuments are adequately protected.
“We sincerely apologize to Mr. Davud Akhundzada for the inconvenience caused and remain committed to ensuring that all tourists to Zimbabwe’s heritage sites enjoy safe and memorable experiences,” the Ministry said.
The Mbuya Nehanda Statue
Unveiled in May 2021, the Mbuya Nehanda Statue stands prominently at the intersection of Samora Machel Avenue and Julius Nyerere Way in Harare’s city centre.
The bronze monument depicts Mbuya Nehanda Charwe Nyakasikana, one of the most significant figures in Zimbabwe’s struggle against British colonial occupation.
Designed by local sculptor David Mutasa, the statue has become both a landmark and a cultural symbol, attracting tourists, historians, and locals who come to pay homage to the revolutionary leader.
Since its installation, the statue has been part of a broader effort to celebrate Zimbabwe’s liberation heroes and to promote heritage-based tourism.
Authorities have expressed plans to continue improving access and visitor experiences at such sites, balancing public interest with the need to preserve the nation’s cultural heritage.