Kubereka Mwana Kumusana

At Holy Trinity Church, Claygate Caremark Elmbridge Team participated in a community engagement event where our Zimbabwe origin carers showcased Zimbabwe Experience to Church visitors.

It was a very unique experience for visitors, they could experience some traditional equipment as “Mugoti” used to prepare a meal as “Sadza”, which is a staple food made from white corn, a key agricultural crop in Zimbabwe.

Visitors got to see “Rupasa”. Rupasa is a reed mat used as a place to sit during different activities and ceremonies.

Visitors also benefited from learning greetings that are common in Zimbabwe-

Good morning- “Mamuka Sei”

Good afternoon – “Masikati”

Good evening “Manheru Akanaka”

The most liked experience of all was “Kubereka Mwana Kumusana” where our colleague Mencillia explained and demonstrated the ideophone of Putting child on one’s back (lifting it over shoulder). Kubereka is a skill someone hones from as young as 8. The concept behind this is that an eight-year-old has a smaller stature, which means a smaller back, which fits perfectly in avoiding any back injuries to the new-born. The fabric used is called “Zambia” which is generally 3 meters long.

In Zimbabwe, this way of carrying babies is more than just convenience—it’s a symbol of care, resilience, and unity. The rhythm of a mother’s walk, the steady heartbeat beneath the cloth, and the security of being so close create an unspoken bond between mother and child. It is how wisdom is passed down, how babies grow to know the scent and sound of their mothers before they can even speak.

In Zimbabwe, a mother’s back is more than just a carrier. It is a cradle of love, a shield of protection, and a place where the next generation learns the rhythm of life.

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