The Ndau have shared a mélange of beliefs reflected in the activities of brewing beer, making rain, and holding court. As important ingredients in the “mixed pot” of Ndauness, both the practical and symbolic aspects of these rituals were central to the development of a cultural identity among the Ndau. Beer drinking has a deep social significance, for as one proverb notes, “Where there is beer there is noise.” The noise may stem from a work party, a ceremony of thanks giving, or a casual afternoon gathering of elders. Beer drinks, both in the present and in the past, validate the position of each headman “as social dean and land manager.” Similarly, a chief whose ancestors continue to bring rain is viewed as “the rightful authority.” Legitimacy is also central to holding court, for chiefs relied on their communities to abide by decisions made at the dare, or court. Leaders knew that “chieftainship cannot rule itself,” but sufficient rain each year and a supply of beer made the affairs of the court run much smoother.

A continuity of rituals based on shared cultural beliefs served to reinforce a collective sense of group identity in this corner of the world.