Dressed in Hides, Hillside Man Rejects Modern Life to Revive Ancestral Traditions

By Nomathemba Mathe

Samuel Dube, a man from Hillside in Bulawayo, has embraced a nomadic lifestyle, opting to wear loincloths and live in harmony with nature.

Dube’s unconventional choices are attributed to what he calls a meaningful way to connect with his ancestors and honor his cultural roots.

In an interview, Dube explained that his decision to wear minimal clothing stems from a desire to preserve cultural heritage and live authentically, as his ancestors did.

He believes that reconnecting with nature and simplifying his life offers a sense of spiritual peace and cultural pride.

“I am a nomadic person, embracing a lifestyle that reconnects me with our ancestral heritage. My journey, titled ‘Journey Back to the Kingdom,’ aims to revive our cultural roots, tracing the footsteps of the first people, the Bushmen, in the southern part of Africa”, said Dube.

He further added that “As part of this journey, I wear minimal attire, exposing my body to the elements, just like our ancestors did. By walking on foot, I hope to inspire our people to return to their roots and reconnect with nature”

Dube also shared that he avoids public transport, preferring to walk, a practice he has embraced since trekking from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, to Zimbabwe entirely on foot. Through his lifestyle, he hopes to inspire younger generations to reflect on their heritage and appreciate traditional ways of living.