Fun Facts On Zimbabwe
Welcome to our article on fun facts about Zimbabwe! Zimbabwe is a beautiful country located in southern Africa that is known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about Zimbabwe that you may not have known before.
The Name Zimbabwe
The name Zimbabwe is derived from the Shona word "dzimba dzemabwe," which means "houses of stone." This refers to the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the country's biggest tourist attractions.
The Currency of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has had a tumultuous history with its currency. In 2008, the country experienced hyperinflation, with prices doubling every 24.7 hours. The government eventually abandoned the Zimbabwean dollar and started using a basket of foreign currencies, including the US dollar, South African rand, and British pound. In 2019, the country reintroduced its own currency, the Zimbabwean dollar, which has struggled to maintain its value.
The Victoria Falls
The Victoria Falls, located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The falls are over a mile wide and plunge 354 feet into the Zambezi River. The locals call the falls "Mosi-oa-Tunya," which means "the smoke that thunders."
The Big Five
Zimbabwe is home to all of the Big Five game animals: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffalos. The country has several national parks, including Hwange National Park, which is the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe.
The Great Dyke
The Great Dyke is a geological feature that runs for over 300 miles through Zimbabwe. The dyke is rich in minerals, including platinum and chromium, and has been a major contributor to the country's economy.
The Kariba Dam
The Kariba Dam, located on the Zambezi River, is one of the largest dams in the world. It was built in the 1950s to provide hydroelectric power to Zimbabwe and Zambia. The dam also created Lake Kariba, which is the largest artificial lake in the world by volume.
The Shona People
The Shona people are the largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, making up around 80% of the population. The Shona have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their stone sculptures, music, and dance.
The Zimbabwean Flag
The Zimbabwean flag has several symbolic elements, including the red star, which represents the revolutionary struggle for independence, and the bird, which is a depiction of the bateleur eagle, a bird native to Zimbabwe.
The Matobo Hills
The Matobo Hills, located in southern Zimbabwe, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to over 3000 rock art sites. The hills are also known for their unique rock formations and stunning views.
The Great Zimbabwe University
The Great Zimbabwe University, located in Masvingo, is one of the top universities in Zimbabwe. The university is named after the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe and offers a wide range of programs, including law, engineering, and agriculture.
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair is an annual event held in Bulawayo that showcases Zimbabwean products and services. The fair attracts exhibitors and visitors from all over the world and is an important event for the country's economy.
The Zambezi River
The Zambezi River is the fourth-longest river in Africa and is a major source of hydroelectric power for Zimbabwe and several other countries. The river is also home to several species of fish, including the tigerfish, which is a popular game fish.
The National Anthem
The Zimbabwean national anthem, "Blessed be the Land of Zimbabwe," was written by Solomon Mutswairo and composed by Fred Changundega. The anthem is sung in Shona, Ndebele, and English and celebrates the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park
The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park is a massive conservation area that spans Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique. The park is home to several endangered species, including the African wild dog and the black rhinoceros, and is a prime destination for ecotourism.
The Zimbabwean Cuisine
The Zimbabwean cuisine is a blend of African, European, and Asian influences. Some popular dishes include sadza, a type of maize porridge, and biltong, a type of dried meat. The country is also known for its beer, particularly the brand Castle Lager.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe is a fascinating country with a rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. We hope you enjoyed learning about these fun facts about Zimbabwe and that you have the chance to visit this beautiful country one day.
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