By Virginia Njovo
For decades villagers from seven villages in Masvingo rural have relied on a unique type of spring for water for domestic use, which is believed to be sacred, but is now being threatened by climate change as it is drying up.
The spring is the sole water source for Makwari, Tore, Muzamani, Chinorumba, Togarepi, Tevera and Rufetu villagers, although it is located in Makwari Village, with some villagers walking approximately three kilometres to fetch water.
The Manwa people used to fetch water from the spring, known as Machakawa, which used to have a number of nipple-like outlets letting out visibly clean water from an earthen boulder, like modern water taps, the only difference being that the water continuously comes out.
Speaking to TellZim News, Makwari Village head Tava Matambo said apart from climate change, the water source was also being threatened by people who were violating the traditional rites observed at the spring over the years.
He said this was mainly done by those who were not originally from the area who were desecrating the place by not following the traditional rites.
“We have a problem of people who are desecrating the place and these are mainly those who came from other places and settled here. This angers the ancestors, leading to the drying up of the water source,” said Matambo.
He said some of the rites include going there barefooted, avoiding the use of scented soap and avoiding the use of metal or plastic containers.
“There are various regulations when it comes to this sacred place. People are not allowed to go there wearing shoes, they are not allowed to use metal containers as well as taking photos at the place. This will anger the spirits of the land and we have noticed a difference since 2012 and if people continue violating the regulations then it may be closed for good,” added Matambo.
Chinorumba village head, Murambiwa Chinorumba said the place was protected by a sacred python, together with some marine spirits believed to be harmless to those who observe the regulations.
“There is a python (shato) which is seen at Machakawa and it doesn’t harm anyone; actually it’s rare to see it, as its only purpose is to protect the spring with the help of the marine spirits that only harm those who don’t follow the rules,” said Chinorumba.
He also added that at one point they tried to drill a borehole near the Machakawa spring and the machinery got stuck underground.
“There is a time when well-wishers came to drill a borehole near the spring believing they could get water easily but they failed as the drilling machine got stuck underground, taking them three days to retrieve it. They later got to the water table but after a day, only mud was coming out of the borehole. Since then, the community only relies on Machakawa as their source of water,” added Chinorumba.
Tore Village Head, James Manwa said that apart from those who were breaking the rules, climate change also contributed in the depreciation of Machakawa.
“For generations, this sacred water source has been a place of heritage and cultural significance; the crystal clear waters are believed to possess mystical properties, drawing pilgrims from far and wide. Climate change however is now affecting this sacred site,” said Manwa.
“Warmer temperatures are altering the water’s chemical composition and changes in precipitation patterns are affecting the water flow. Increased evaporation and droughts are also threatening the water’s very existence,” said Manwa.
Machakawa is believed to be source to perennial Munzviru River which is key for economic activities downstream like gardening, commercial brick molding and other domestic uses.
