In a provocative and symbolic journey, Zimbabwean Pan-Africanist Joshua Maponga III has embarked on a “discovery” of Europe, echoing historical narratives but with a distinctly African perspective.

 

Documented in the “Farmers of Thoughts” history book, Maponga’s expedition playfully reclaims the term “explorer” to highlight the existing presence and rich histories of the lands “discovered” by Europeans centuries ago.

 

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Maponga’s voyage is not one of conquest, but of “Revelation, Renaming, and Restoration,” aiming to challenge established historical narratives and reframe the understanding of Africa’s relationship with Europe. Through his “discovery,” Maponga has bestowed new, often critical, names upon prominent British locations and concepts:

* England: Now known as PAMBEPFUMI (meaning “Tomb raiders, Plunderers of wealth”), a direct indictment of historical exploitation.

* London: Rechristened RUNDONDA (“House of the weaklings”), possibly implying a perceived moral or spiritual weakness.

* Manchester: Becomes KUMAGABA (“Home of noisy tins”), perhaps a commentary on industrialization or a lack of genuine substance.

* Birmingham: Dubbed Berejena (“white hyenas”), a stark and unflattering comparison.

* Cambridge: Renamed Ngomahuru (“House of noisy drums/Den of madness”), suggesting a critique of academic institutions or intellectual pursuits.

* Oxford: Poignantly termed Misodzi yaFureka (“Tears of Africa”), directly linking the institution to the suffering caused by colonialism.

* English Language: Affectionately (or perhaps sarcastically) called Chirungurira (“Teeth on the edge”), hinting at its sharp edges or a feeling of discomfort.

* Prince William: Given the moniker Dangarembwa Nyamadzavo (“Their dog kennel heir”), a highly dismissive and demeaning reference.

* Cellphone: Playfully named Pontonjere (“the Tin of intelligence”), a commentary on modern technology.

* Buckingham Palace: Becomes Makuvastsine (“Gatherers of spiky Grass”), perhaps implying a collection of trivialities or something unproductive.

* Glastonbury site: Intriguingly renamed Zulu of Bulawayo, drawing a connection between ancient European sites and African heritage.

* Europe: Simply VEROPA.

* Amsterdam: Called Varombi.

Maponga’s audacious act of renaming is a powerful symbolic gesture. By assigning these new names, he seeks to strip away conventional perceptions and impose an alternative, Pan-Africanist interpretation of these places and symbols. His goal is to disrupt the existing “history books” and rewrite them from an African-centric viewpoint, highlighting themes of historical injustice, cultural resilience, and the ongoing impact of colonial legacies.

 

As Maponga’s “voyage” continues, his “Farmers of Thoughts” movement aims to sow seeds of new understanding and encourage a re-evaluation of global history, fostering a deeper appreciation for Africa’s contributions and challenging dominant Western narratives. His actions serve as a vibrant example of intellectual activism and a bold assertion of African identity on the global stage.