Zurukanda

Kingdom of Zurukanda Inkosi YaseZurukanda
Anthem: Nkiya Yamafua
Capital	Korogiri
Largest	Nariba
Official languages	Ulimi
Religion	Kwemvelo
Government	Unitary absolute monarchy
• King	Yamagorira Wobubele
Legislature	Isiqalo Sezulu
Currency	Imalini (ZIM)
Calling code	+530

Zurukanda, officially the Kingdom of Zurukanda

Etymology

The name Zurukanda holds a distinctive place in the cultural narrative of the nation, capturing its essence through linguistic roots that intertwine with the landscape, culture, and unity that define Zurukanda. Derived from the indigenous language, Ulimi, the name bears nuanced meanings that shed light on the profound connection between the nation and its diverse elements.

The component Zuru evokes the nation's mist-covered mountains, a natural wonder that graces Zurukanda with an air of enchantment. This term encapsulates the ethereal beauty of hills shrouded in mist, hinting at the nation's serene landscapes and its embrace of the heavens.

Kanda a term rich with significance, embodies the essence of unity and gathering. It reflects the spirit of cohesion that binds the people of Zurukanda together. As threads woven into a tapestry, the citizens of Zurukanda are intertwined by shared values and a collective journey, embracing the virtues of harmony that define their nation.

Geography

Mountains dominate much of Zurukanda, and the country is sometimes called the Land in the Clouds. Part of The Rift Mountains run from north to south through Zurukanda. The highest peaks are found in the volcano chain in the northwest; including Zurukanda's highest point, at 4,507 metres (14,787 ft). This section of the country lies within the Rift montane forests ecoregion. It has an elevation of 1,500 to 2,500 metres (4,921 to 8,202 ft). The centre of the country is predominantly rolling hills, while the eastern border region consists of plains and swamps.

Climate

Lake and volcano in western Zurukanda.

Zurukanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, with lower temperatures than are typical for equatorial countries because of its high elevation. Korogiri, in the centre of the country, has a typical daily temperature range between 15 and 28 °C (59 and 82 °F), with little variation through the year. There are some temperature variations across the country; the mountainous regions are generally cooler than the lower-lying regions. There are two rainy seasons in the year, separated by two dry seasons. Rainfall varies geographically, with the mountainous regions receiving more precipitation annually than the low-lying regions.

Biodiversity

Zurukanda is home to the largest population of Mountain Gorillas in the world.

The greatest diversity of large mammals is found in the Zurukanda's national parks, which are designated conservation areas. The rift mountains are home to the Zurukanda mountain gorilla, the national animal. Zurukanda's rainforests boast thirteen primate species including common chimpanzees and Ruwenzori colobus arboreal monkeys; the Ruwenzori colobus move in groups of up to 400 individuals, the largest troop size of any primate.

There are 670 bird species in Zurukanda, with variation between the east and the west.The west, has 280 recorded species, of which 26 are endemic to the Rift; endemic species include the turaco and handsome spurfowl. Eastern Zurukanda, by contrast, features savanna birds such as the black-headed gonolek and those associated with swamps and lakes, including storks and cranes.

Recent entomological work in the country has revealed a rich diversity of praying mantises, including a new species Dystacta tigrifrutex, dubbed the "bush tiger mantis".

Culture

Zurukanda's long period of relative isolation from the outside world allowed the nation to establish a unique culture. Traditional Zurukandan arts include crafts such as ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, swords and dolls; dance performances and drums, the coffee ceremony, martial arts, calligraphy, hot-spring bathing, and games. Zurukanda has a developed system for the protection and promotion of both tangible and intangible Cultural Properties and National Treasures.

Art and architecture

Zurukandan architecture is a combination of local and other influences. It has traditionally been typified by wooden or mud or dung plaster structures, elevated slightly off the ground, with tiled or thatched roofs. Traditional housing and many official buildings see the use of woven mats and sliding doors that break down the distinction between rooms and indoor and outdoor space.

Cuisine

Grilled meat is a popular Zurukandan meal.

Sports

A matched set of antique Zurukandan swords and their individual mountings.