Kurima

Kurima, in the Shona language of Zimbabwe, refers primarily to the act of farming or cultivation. It encompasses a wide range of agricultural practices, including tilling the soil, planting seeds, weeding, and harvesting crops. The word often carries broader connotations beyond the purely technical aspects of agriculture, encompassing a connection to the land, sustenance, and rural livelihoods.

Kurima is not merely a physical activity, but also a deeply ingrained cultural and economic practice for many Shona people. It represents a key aspect of their traditional way of life and a primary source of food security and income. The specific crops grown and farming techniques employed vary depending on the region, climate, and available resources. Common crops cultivated through kurima include maize (corn), millet, sorghum, beans, groundnuts, and various vegetables.

The term can also extend beyond crop farming to include livestock rearing, although more specific terms may be used for dedicated livestock farming. The success of kurima is often seen as intertwined with factors beyond individual effort, including rainfall patterns, soil fertility, and access to agricultural resources and knowledge. It is a practice passed down through generations, often involving the entire family unit in the agricultural process. Modern agricultural practices are increasingly being incorporated into kurima, but the underlying connection to the land and the importance of agriculture to livelihoods remains central to the meaning of the word.