A Broken Nation

‘A Broken Nation’ is a powerful reflection by Mbayiwa on the current state of Zimbabwe, where nearly every sector appears to be in decline. The artwork speaks to the frustration and despair felt by many, particularly the youth, who emerge from an education system that continues to produce graduates with little promise of employment . Meanwhile, the health sector lies in disrepair— hospitals lack basic equipment and medicine, leading to preventable suffering and loss of life. Central to the work is the concept of septa— wisdom traditionally passed from one generation to the next. In a culture that deeply values heritage and continuity, septa represent guidance, stability, and a sense of purpose. Yet in a society where leadership prioritises self-preservation over public service, this ancestral wisdom loses its weight. It becomes an echo of what should be, rather than a living practice. The metaphor of leaders “putting their heads in the sand” underscores the wilful denial of the country’s challenges. By refusing to acknowledge the reality on the ground, those in power effectively abandon their duty to protect and uplift their people. The result is a fractured nation, where hope is dim and daily life is marked by hardship. Through this piece, Mbayiwa calls for accountability and urgent transformation. His work is both a critique and a rallying cry—a demand for a better Zimbabwe, shaped by truth, responsibility, and a collective will to rebuild what has been broken.

Signed by the artist - front, bottom left corner.