RICHARD Jeyi, the 16th Chief Chinhamhora of Domboshava, says the area has the potential to become one of Zimbabwe’s leading cultural tourism destinations through heritage preservation, community participation and strategic partnerships.
Speaking during a familiarisation tour hosted at the Zenda Art Gallery in Domboshava recently, Chief Chinhamhora said the Chinhamhora Cultural Centre was committed to strengthening collaboration in community engagement and cultural preservation.
The event brought together stakeholders from the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU), community leaders and arts practitioners to discuss opportunities for promoting local heritage and tourism development.
“Our project opens a new door to the future of our community,” Chief Chinhamhora said.
“We appreciate the support we continue to receive from the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe and all stakeholders working with us in preserving our heritage.”
He added that cultural preservation went beyond safeguarding traditions and included documenting family histories, protecting sacred cultural sites and developing infrastructure that benefits communities through collective participation.
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Installed on July 5, 2025, following a lengthy vacancy, Chief Chinhamhora leads the Shawasha people in the Domboshava area of Goromonzi district.
The traditional leader has been vocal on environmental conservation and social issues affecting communities.
Chief Chinhamhora previously urged residents to combat drug and substance abuse while advocating the protection of wetlands and forests in Domboshava.
Zenda Art Gallery founder and owner Keith Zenda commended the visit by ZOU representatives and other stakeholders, describing it as an important step towards strengthening partnerships between arts, heritage and educational institutions.
“ArtGal Zim has been collaborating with Chief Chinhamhora to promote Zimbabwean heritage through art,” Zenda said.
“The familiarisation tour with ZOU seeks to highlight cultural preservation efforts and explore creative partnerships that can uplift communities.”
The delegation included ZOU Faculty of Arts, Culture and Heritage Studies dean Shumirai Nyota, Community Engagement co-ordinator Rosewitha Mbiriyakura and Chipo Chirimuuta.
There was also representation from the Harare National Museums and Monuments.
Chirimuuta encouraged stakeholders to adopt a focused approach towards exploring and effectively utilising Domboshava’s historical and tourism attractions.
Located about 30 kilometres north of Harare, Domboshava is one of Zimbabwe’s recognised heritage tourism destinations.
The area is known for its granite hills, ancient San rock art and traditional Shona cultural practices.
Among the major attractions is the Domboshava Cave, a protected national monument featuring rock paintings believed to date back to between 2 000 and 6 000 years.
Other popular sites include Ngoma Kurira Mountain, known for its scenic hiking trails and panoramic views, and the Pasichigare Cultural Centre, which offers visitors opportunities to experience traditional Shona culture, storytelling and performances.
The area also attracts visitors through its sacred cultural sites, rural markets, photography experiences and outdoor recreational activities.
Meanwhile, the Zenda Art Gallery continues to make a social impact within the community by teaching children painting and visual art skills.
The initiative has provided young people with creative opportunities, encouraged cultural expression and helped to nurture emerging artistic talent in Domboshava.