Exploring how Multilingual Artistic Expression Sustains Linguistic Diversity and Shapes Cultural Narratives in Zimbabwean Creative Practices

This study examines how multilingual artistic expression contributes to sustaining linguistic diversity and shaping cultural narratives within contemporary Zimbabwean creative practices. Specifically, the study is guided by the following research objectives: (i) to document multilingual artistic practices in Zimbabwe; (ii) to examine the cultural, social and political motivations behind the use of indigenous languages in artistic production and (iii) to analyse how multilingual storytelling contributes to cultural preservation and audience engagement in the digital age. Grounded in theories of language preservation, cultural identity and decolonial aesthetics, the research investigates the ways in which artists integrate indigenous languages into poetry, music, theatre, spoken word and digital media as strategies for cultural continuity and audience engagement.
Using a qualitative research design, the study draws on in-depth interviews with 20 purposively selected artists textual analysis of artistic works and observation of performances involving artists who employ multilingual storytelling rooted in Ndebele, Khalanga, Shona, Nambya, Tonga, Venda and other minority languages. Data were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework, following iterative coding procedures that involved familiarisation, generating initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing themes and defining themes. Data saturation was reached when no new thematic insights emerged across interviews and performance observations.
Findings reveal that multilingual expression functions as both an artistic technique and a political act, enabling artists to resist linguistic marginalisation, reconstruct historical memory and assert identities often excluded from dominant national narratives. For example, observed performances included a Bulawayo Arts Festival multilingual theatre production where actors code-switched between Ndebele, English and Kalanga to represent intergenerational conflict and cultural memory, as well as a Tonga musical performance shared on TikTok that evoked strong diaspora engagement through indigenous lyricism.
The study further shows that by embedding local languages into contemporary artistic forms, both traditional and digital creatives foster intergenerational dialogue, broaden audience participation and contribute to ongoing cultural preservation efforts.
The paper argues that multilingual storytelling is an essential site of cultural resilience in Zimbabwe, reinforcing the value of indigenous languages within the creative economy while challenging homogenising forces in the arts sector. The study concludes by recommending increased institutional support for multilingual arts initiatives and the integration of indigenous languages into national cultural policy. The paper argues that multilingual storytelling is an essential site of cultural resilience in Zimbabwe, reinforcing the value of indigenous languages within the creative economy while challenging homogenising forces in the arts sector. The study concludes by recommending increased institutional support for multilingual arts initiatives and the integration of indigenous languages into national cultural policy.

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