The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released the names of two women who drowned during a suspected Manjuzu initiation ceremony at the Nyaure River in Manhenga Village, Bindura. The tragic incident has once again cast a spotlight on the controversial and often dangerous rituals associated with water spirits in Zimbabwe’s traditional belief systems.
According to a statement issued by police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the victims have been identified as Ellen Mlauzi (49) and Ethel Nyabundu (22). The two were part of a group conducting traditional rites at the river when the incident occurred.
They had attended the ceremony in the company of four others: Pauline Kadzviti (48), Tabeth Sagwidza (39), Emma Sagwidza (35), and a man identified as Jacob Peter. The group is said to have been taking part in spiritual rituals believed to be linked to Manjuzu spirits — mermaid-like beings in Zimbabwean traditional belief associated with water, wealth, beauty, and spiritual gifts.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the drowning of two women at Nyaure River, Manhenga Village, Bindura,” said Commissioner Nyathi. “The deceased were reportedly conducting traditional rituals along with two other women and one man.”
According to preliminary reports, the ceremony took a tragic turn when one of the women reportedly began exhibiting signs of spiritual possession. She allegedly waded into deeper waters and began to struggle. Jacob Peter attempted to save her but was unsuccessful. In the confusion and panic, a second woman also entered the water and drowned. One body was recovered soon after the incident, while the second was retrieved the following day by members of the ZRP Sub-Aqua Unit.
Commissioner Nyathi urged the public to avoid engaging in dangerous practices near water bodies, noting that such tragedies are preventable.
Police Name Women Who Drowned During Suspected Manjuzu Ritual in Bindura
“We continue to urge members of the public to avoid participating in life-threatening activities in rivers, dams, and other water bodies,” he said. “This tragic loss of life could have been avoided. Traditional practices must never come at the cost of human life.”
The incident has reignited debate over the practice of Manjuzu rituals in Zimbabwe. Followers of Manjuzu — often women — believe they are spiritually chosen by the water spirits, who bestow them with gifts such as physical beauty, healing powers, business success, and protection. Rituals often involve cleansing ceremonies conducted in rivers or pools believed to be sacred.
However, the practice is not without controversy. While some adherents claim their lives have improved significantly under the guidance of Manjuzu spirits, critics warn of spiritual, social, and psychological risks — including estrangement from family, isolation, and negative spiritual consequences.
A woman from Chitungwiza who identifies as a Manjuzu medium told local media that she owes her success and wellbeing to the water spirits.
“Since realising I have a water spirit, I’ve never faced misfortune,” she said. “Everything in my life — my business, my relationships — has been thriving. People who say it’s witchcraft or evil just don’t understand our beliefs.”
She dismissed allegations that the practices are harmful or associated with dark forces, arguing that cultural and spiritual diversity should be respected.
Another woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity, echoed similar sentiments, saying she didn’t choose the spirit — it chose her.
“I didn’t go looking for njuzu,” she explained. “They came to me. I see visions, I heal people, and I live with this gift I didn’t ask for. It’s a responsibility.”
However, not everyone sees Manjuzu practices in a positive light. Religious leaders have expressed concern about the increasing number of young people turning to spiritual practices they say are dangerous and misleading.
Apostle Bigboy Kathumba, a vocal opponent of the practice, warned that Manjuzu initiation can lead to unstable relationships and spiritually induced misfortunes.
“These water spirits come with strings attached. You may gain material wealth for a season, but it often leads to anti-marriage curses and spiritual bondage,” said Kathumba. “Some churches and pastors are even unknowingly operating under the influence of these spirits. It’s a serious issue.”
Kathumba further claimed that individuals affected by Manjuzu often exhibit tell-tale signs, such as recurring dreams involving water, unexplained illnesses, or sudden changes in fortune.
Police say investigations into the Bindura drownings are ongoing. Authorities have yet to confirm whether criminal charges will be laid or whether the ritual was conducted under the guidance of a registered traditional healer.
Meanwhile, the incident has sparked renewed calls for the regulation of spiritual ceremonies involving water bodies, with some suggesting that traditional leaders and healers be trained in basic safety procedures to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
As families mourn the loss of two lives, the debate continues over where the line should be drawn between cultural expression and public safety.
Source- ZimEye
