ZIMBABWEANS risk losing an important part of their heritage if they leave others to write their history, author Munyaradzi Hwengwere warned at the launch of his new book, The Great Dyke: Beyond the Rock, on Thursday evening.
Speaking at King Solomon’s Hotel, Hwengwere stressed the importance of documenting Zimbabwe’s own experiences and achievements. “If we don’t tell our stories, somebody else will tell our stories,” he said, underscoring the need for local voices to shape the nation’s narrative.
Hwengwere explained that he wrote the book with two audiences in mind. While some chapters contain detailed geological information intended for specialists, others are written in straightforward language for the general public. His aim, he said, was to ensure that “even a person on the ground must be able to understand what the Great Dyke is.” He also revealed that the manuscript was reduced from roughly 400 pages to about 340 before publication.
Representing Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe president Fungai Makoni, the organisation’s economics, policy and investment promotions manager, Pardon Chitsuro, encouraged mining companies and educational institutions to purchase and distribute the book widely. “We must take pride in documenting our own story,” Chitsuro said.
He added that the publication would be a valuable resource for students studying geology, mining engineering, metallurgy, environmental science and economics, helping them connect classroom theory with Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth. According to Chitsuro, policymakers and investors could also use the book as a reliable reference on the country’s mining sector.
Engineer Solomon Matsa highlighted the mining industry’s contribution to the livelihoods of millions of Zimbabweans, saying the book would help ordinary citizens better understand the sector’s role in national development.
Global entrepreneur Batanai Dhliwayo reflected on Hwengwere’s journey from his childhood in Mberengwa to his later roles as a commissioner, businessman and communications consultant, describing it as an inspiring story of achievement and service.
The launch formed part of the opening day’s activities for the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, bringing together figures from the mining, business and academic communities to celebrate both the book and the significance of the Great Dyke to Zimbabwe’s development.
