4. Socio-Political Organisation of the Mwenemutapa Kingdom

a. Political Organisation

• Centralised Government: King (Mwenemutapa) held supreme power and was considered divine.

• Royal Court: Included positions like chancellor, court chamberlain, military commander, and others.

• Council of Chiefs: Advised the king and managed provinces.

• The Royal Fire: Symbol of unity and authority rekindled by other chiefs.

• Standing Army: Ensured internal stability and expansion.

b. Social Organisation

• Divine Kingship: The king was viewed as a god-like figure.

• Religious Beliefs: Worship of Mwari and ancestral spirits (Vadzimu, Mhondoro, Chaminuka).

• Priesthood: Priests (Masvikiro) mediated between people and the spirits.

• Clan System: Organised by totems and extended families.

• Division of Labour: Roles based on gender and skills.

c. Economic Organisation

• Agriculture: Cultivation and animal husbandry.

• Trade: Export of gold, ivory, and iron tools.

• Crafts: Pottery, weaving, and metalwork.

Fishing and Hunting: Supplemented diet and economy.