These famous Nyami Nyami walking sticks are inspired by the legend of the Nyami Nyami, a creature believed by the local people to reside in Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba. The Tonga people of the area believe that this dragon-like creature with a snake’s torso and a fish’s head protects them during difficult times. Rainos Tawonameso, a native of the area, has created a walking stick that incorporates this legend and motifs from the area. We have only 20 of these limited edition walking sticks in stock, so order today!

Extra Detail for Walking Sticks

      The Handle represents "Nyaminyami" who the Tonga people believe is their spirit God (Mudzimu), and that the occasional earth tremor felt in the Lake surroundings is caused by this Spirit. 

      The Tree is a Mopane tree which is found in the Zambezi Valley; the Spirals represent the waves on the Zambezi River; the fish is representative of the staple food of the Tonga people, who prior to the building of Kariba Dam fished daily on the Zambezi River.

      The Figures represent people on the Zambezi River banks during their ceremonial dances.

      The Wooden Rings represent the bangles worn by the Tonga woman as a decoration during ceremonial dances.

      The Sign of the Hand represents the holding of the "Magical Ball" used by the Tonga fortune tellers to guard against evil spirits.

      The Woman's Bubble Pipe (Incelwa) is normally a long pipe made from a calabash and is used by the Tonga people for smoking tobacco. In the past these pipes were used for smoking "dagga" (marijuana) - a Tonga tradition.