The Rhodesians ethnic group is a diverse community that originated in Rhodesia, which is now present-day Zimbabwe. This group consists of various tribes, including the Shona, Ndebele, and Karanga. Over the years, many Rhodesians have become renowned for their achievements and contributions in different fields. Here is a list of the top 10 famous people from the Rhodesians ethnic group:
- Robert Mugabe: Robert Mugabe was a Zimbabwean politician and revolutionary who served as the country’s Prime Minister from 1980 to 1987 and then as President from 1987 to 2017. He played a significant role in the Rhodesian Bush War and later became a controversial figure in Zimbabwean politics.
- Joshua Nkomo: Joshua Nkomo was a Zimbabwean politician and nationalist leader who was instrumental in the fight for independence from British rule in Rhodesia. He played a critical role in unifying rival African nationalist factions and founded the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU).
- Chenjerai Hove: Chenjerai Hove was a renowned Zimbabwean author and poet whose works portrayed the struggles and triumphs of the Rhodesian people. He received several literary awards and international recognition for his contributions to African literature.
- Dr. Tererai Trent: Dr. Tererai Trent is an educator, motivational speaker, and humanitarian. Born and raised in a rural village in Zimbabwe, she defied cultural norms and overcame numerous challenges to become an internationally recognized advocate for women’s empowerment and education.
- Oliver Mtukudzi: Oliver Mtukudzi was a legendary Zimbabwean musician and songwriter. He was known for his unique style of music, which blended traditional African rhythms with modern influences. Mtukudzi’s music resonated with people all over the world and earned him numerous accolades.
- Benjani Mwaruwari: Benjani Mwaruwari is a former professional footballer who represented Zimbabwe at the international level. He achieved success playing for various clubs in Europe, including Portsmouth in the English Premier League.
- Peter Ndlovu: Peter Ndlovu is a former Zimbabwean footballer who is considered one of the greatest players to come out of Zimbabwe. He had a successful career playing for Coventry City in the English Premier League and also represented the Zimbabwe national team.
- Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira: Tendai Mtawarira is a Zimbabwean-born South African rugby player who is widely regarded as one of the best props in the history of the sport. He represented the Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby team, and played a key role in their 2019 Rugby World Cup victory.
- Tatenda Taibu: Tatenda Taibu is a former Zimbabwean cricketer who captained the national cricket team. He became the youngest-ever Test captain at the age of 20 and made significant contributions to Zimbabwean cricket during his career.
- Vimbai Mutinhiri: Vimbai Mutinhiri is a Zimbabwean television presenter and actress who gained popularity after participating in the reality show “Big Brother Africa.” She has since established herself as a prominent media personality and advocate for women’s rights.
Most Famous Rhodesians Celebrities
Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe, has produced a number of famous individuals in various fields who can trace their roots back to this southern African country. These notable figures have made significant contributions to areas such as sports, entertainment, literature, and politics. Here are some famous celebrities from Rhodesian roots:
- Charlize Theron: Born in Benoni, South Africa, Charlize Theron’s parents are of German and French descent, with her paternal great-great-grandfather being of Dutch and French ancestry from Rhodesia. Theron is a globally recognized actress and producer, with numerous awards to her name including an Academy Award for her role in the movie “Monster.”
- Kirsty Coventry: Born in Zimbabwe, Coventry is a former Olympic swimmer and the most successful Olympian from Africa. She won a total of seven Olympic medals, including two golds, in the 2004 and 2008 Games. Coventry held multiple world records throughout her career and has been appointed to various international swimming committees.
- Peter Godwin: A Zimbabwean-born English writer and journalist, Peter Godwin is known for his books that explore the complexities of the country. His memoir “Mukiwa: A White Boy in Africa” became an international bestseller, shedding light on his experiences growing up during the Rhodesian Bush War in the 1970s.
- Peter Ndlovu: Ndlovu was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and is a former professional footballer. He achieved great success while playing for Coventry City in the English Premier League and for the Zimbabwe national team. Ndlovu became the first African to score in the Premier League and captained his country during the Africa Cup of Nations.
These famous individuals with Rhodesian roots have made a significant impact in their respective fields, showcasing the diversity and talent that originates from Zimbabwe. From the silver screen to the Olympic podium and literary world, their achievements serve as a testament to the potential that can emerge from humble beginnings.
Above is the list of celebrities with Rhodesians heritage. For more comprehensive information about current celebrity issues and other famous personalities, feel free to visit the website about The Most Famous People.
Factsheet About Rhodesians People
| Ethnicity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Shona | 6,858,550 | 72.4% |
| Ndebele | 2,156,898 | 22.8% |
| White | 257,968 | 2.7% |
| Mixed Race | 112,741 | 1.2% |
| Asian | 21,653 | 0.2% |
| Other | 33,875 | 0.4% |
Rhodesians Ethnicity: References and Resources
There are several references that you can use to dig deeper into the ethnic background of Rhodesians. Some of these references include:
- “Ethnic Tension and Acculturation in Rhodesia: A Social Psychology Perspective” by Dan J. Venter: This article discusses the ethnic tension and acculturation in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) from a social psychology perspective. It provides valuable insights into the ethnic dynamics during that time.
- “The Evolution of Ethnic Politics in Rhodesia” by Zobaida Jalal: This article analyzes the evolution of ethnic politics in Rhodesia, tracing the roots of ethnic divisions and their impact on the country’s political landscape.
- “Peasants, Politicians, and Parents: A Study of the Contact between State and Society in Rhodesia” by Preben Kaarsholm: This book examines the complex relationship between the Rhodesian state and society, including the role of ethnicity in shaping interactions and power dynamics.
- “Ethnicity without Groups: African and European Identities in Rhodesia” by Terrence Ranger: In this article, Terrence Ranger explores the fluid nature of ethnicity in Rhodesia, challenging the notion of rigid ethnic groups and examining hybrid identities that emerged.
These references provide diverse perspectives on the ethnic dynamics in Rhodesia and can offer valuable insights into the complexities of the ethnic background during that time.
As we continue to celebrate diversity and embrace the richness of different cultures, let us honor and draw inspiration from these remarkable individuals who have shaped our world. Thank you for joining us on this captivating journey.
