Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The City of Bulawayo is set to
revolutionize its civic identity by changing the mayoral gown, ensuring
it resonates with and reflects its rich local culture.
The council has already identified Nkanyezi Malunga, a youthful
international fashion designer, to spearhead the creation of the new
designs.
According to the latest council minutes, Town Clerk Christopher Dube
revealed that the council has, over the years, received repeated calls
from the public to redesign the mayoral gown to better align with the
city’s cultural heritage.
“It was noted that in order to do so, there would be a need to engage
designers who would work with the council to design the new mayoral
gown.
“It was also noted that the current Mayoral Gown was made of heavy
material and tended to be very hot in summer or hot seasons.
“A summer Mayoral Gown would ensure comfort during the City’s civic
functions held in hot months, while a Mayoral Winter Gown would ensure
warmth and comfort during the winter months,” the council said.
The proposal includes incorporating designs and patterns that reflect
the City of Bulawayo’s colours, Ndebele patterns, and cultural motifs.
“The gown will remain red in colour, in line with the City Crest, but
will also feature architectural references and cultural connotations
unique to Bulawayo.
“Inclusion of Bulawayo’s architectural references and cultural
connotations associated with Bulawayo. Analysis of the City’s Crest to
incorporate the elements in the designs of the New Mayoral Gown,” the
city council said.
The proposal also includes replacing the traditional mayoral hat with
the Ndebele headgear, Umqhele, further emphasizing the city’s cultural
roots.
“New gown design to reflect the inclusivity of the people of Bulawayo
without segregation, be inspired by the richness of the arts, history,
and culture of the Matebeleland region, and to also acknowledge the
diversity in the City of Bulawayo as a strength and not a weakness,”
said BCC.
The council anticipates that the new mayoral gown will not only enhance
civic pride but also boost tourism. The old mayoral gown will be
showcased at the Natural History Museum, accompanied by write-ups
detailing its historical significance and the transition over time.
City mayor David Coltart acknowledged that the current mayoral gown is
more reminiscent of Scottish attire, with little connection to
Bulawayo’s cultural identity.
The council has resolved to seek financial support from development
partners to fund the design and procurement of the new mayoral gown.
“The proposed designs of a new mayoral gown, once obtained, will be
submitted to council for approval,” it said.
Local residents and cultural advocates have lauded the council’s
decision, viewing it as a step toward reclaiming the African identity
within Zimbabwean civic institutions.
It is believed the new gown could inspire other cities across the
country and the continent to revisit and redefine their own symbols of
authority in ways that are locally meaningful.
New Ziana