Thubani

Thubani (Oharic) 图班 (Tú bān) 天龙座 (Tiānlóng zuò)
1499
Flag
Location of Thubani, halfway between San Ba and Orioni.
Capital	Mishigi
Common languages	Oharic, Sanbanese
Demonym(s)	Thubanese
Government	Semi-autonomous territory
Governor
• Upper house	Council of Elders
• Lower house	People's Assembly
Historical era	Orinese colonial era
• Established	1499
• Disestablished	1969
• State merger	1982
Area
2024	2,878.06 km2 (1,111.23 sq mi)
Population
• 2024	873,831
Currency	Sanbanese Yuan (SBY)
Preceded by Succeeded by Orioni San Ba

Thubani is a semi-autonomous island territory located in the Rosario Sea. The island, bordering the maritime territories of San Ba and Orioni, spans approximately 2,878.06 km² (1,111.23 sq mi) and supports a population of close to 873,831 residents. Its capital and largest city is Mishigi, a historic site known for its large fortresses and strategic importance.

Politically, Thubani is a part of the Republic of San Ba, retaining specific autonomous rights and privileges under a governor appointed by the central Sanbanese government. The island's history is marked by periods of transition, starting from its pre-colonial era as a hub on the Pearl Road trade network, through a prolonged Orinese colonial period (1499-1969), to its eventual decolonisation in 1969, and its unification with San Ba in 1982. The current Head of State is governor Natsinda Butu, daughter of Thuban's first prime minister, Ambatya Ndwiga.

Thubani's economy is primarily based on fishing, mining, and increasingly, eco-tourism. The island is known for its sustainable fishing practices, and is also rich in alabaster, tin, and tungsten. While its historic forests have been depleted, its remaining natural reserves are now protected spaces that contribute to a growing tourism industry. Internationally, Thubani enjoys cooperative relations with neighbouring states, particularly through multilateral agreements like the Rosario Sea Defence Cooperation Vision 2025.

Etymology

The name Thubani holds historical and linguistic significance. Its most direct translation comes from the Oharic word for “large snake” or “python”, symbolising strength, power, and adaptability. This symbolism mirrors the Thubanese people's history of resilience and transformation through the various phases of the island's history.

Furthermore, Thuban has astronomical connections. The term refers to Alpha Draconis, a star that served as the pole star a few millennia BCE. In Oharic, the language once used by the Orinese to govern Thuban, Alpha Draconis is referred to as Zenido, linking the island's name to celestial navigation and the seafaring history of its colonisers.

Geography

Climate

Situated in the Rosario Sea, Thubani enjoys a tropical maritime climate, characterised by warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. The climate is largely regulated by the wind from the Rosario Sea. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the wet season, which typically runs from November through April, and the dry season from May through October. Annual rainfall averages around 2,500 millimetres, although this can be significantly higher in the interior highlands.

Temperature-wise, Thubani remains consistently warm throughout the year, with average daily temperatures rarely falling below 24 °C (75 °F). This warmth, coupled with the island's fertile soils, makes Thubani an ideal location for agricultural activities, including rubber plantations, which were established in the early 1800s and continue to be a significant part of the island's economy.

Terrain and natural features

Thubani's terrain is predominantly flat, with a handful of low-lying mountains in the interior, the highest of which is Mount Ndwiga, named after the nation's independence leader, Ambatya Ndwiga. Named after the Sanbanese word for 'elevation', the mountain stands at 1,232 metres and is part of the Mishigi Range. The island is also crisscrossed by several small rivers, the largest being the River Butu, which is named after the country's second Prime Minister, Natsinda Butu.

The island is renowned for its abundant natural beauty, which includes verdant forests, rolling hills, and stunning beaches. The coastline is dotted with numerous sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and small inlets, providing a rich habitat for a variety of marine life.

Flora and fauna

The flora of Thubani is rich and diverse, reflecting the island's tropical climate. The island's interior is characterised by luscious rainforests, home to a wide variety of plant species, including towering hardwood trees, vibrant orchids, and a plethora of medicinal plants. Thubani's rainforests have long been a source of valuable timber, and were instrumental in the island's historical shipbuilding industry.

Thubani's fauna is equally diverse, with the island hosting a number of species not found elsewhere. Notable among these is the Thubanese python, a non-venomous snake species that can grow up to 4 metres in length. The python, from which the island gets its name, is a key part of the island's ecosystem, serving as a top predator.

The waters surrounding Thubani teem with a diverse array of marine life, including numerous species of fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. These marine resources have long been a crucial part of the Thubanese diet and economy, with sustainable fishing practices forming a key part of the island's culture.

Despite the pressures of development and population growth, Thubani has made significant strides in conservation. A number of national parks and protected areas have been established across the island, ensuring the preservation of its unique biodiversity for future generations. The largest of these is the Ndwiga National Park, established in 1985, which encompasses a significant portion of the island's interior forests and the entirety of Mount Ndwiga.

Human geography

The human geography of Thubani is shaped by its historical, cultural, and economic landscapes. The island's population of approximately 873,831 is distributed across a number of urban and rural settlements, each with its own unique character and identity.

Mishigi, the capital city, is the island's most populous urban centre, characterised by its historical significance and status as a commercial hub. The city's architecture reflects its colonial past, with a blend of Orinese and traditional Thubanese styles evident in its buildings. Other major urban areas include Adib and Youshu, both of which play significant roles in the island's economy and society. These cities, along with Mishigi, are well-connected by an efficient network of roads and public transportation, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the island.

Beyond the urban centres, Thubani's rural landscapes are characterised by their luscious forests, rolling hills, and rich soil. These regions are primarily involved in agricultural activities, with farming and livestock rearing being key components of the local economy. In the rural areas, traditional Thubanese ways of life are particularly prevalent. Communities in these areas have a deep connection with the land and the sea, with fishing being a major source of sustenance and income. The practice of sustainable fishing is deeply ingrained in these communities, reflecting their respect for the environment and the natural resources it provides.

History

Pre-colonial history

Prior to colonial incursion, Thubani was a vital part of the Pearl Road trade network. Its forests, rich in timber, were used to construct ships, granting the island an invaluable strategic resource that would play a pivotal role in its later decolonisation.

Colonial period

Old castle in the capital city of Mishigi.

Crown of the Danya.

Thubanese celebrating Ahuni.

Caption.

The island of Thubani, initially seized from Ide Jima by Sanbanese pirates, was captured and subsequently colonised by the Orinese Empire in 1499. Over the ensuing 470 years, the empire further developed Thubani, with a strong emphasis on exploiting its natural resources and strategic location.

Mishigi (Oharic: fort), the westernmost castle and home to the governing council and their immediate family members, was under the rule of a Danya and his family. The Danya, appointed by the monarch, ruled the colony in exchange for his loyalty and service to the empire. The first Danya, Hiragi Yukimura, was appointed in 1502, and he established the governing council in Mishigi castle. Over the centuries, the Danyas played pivotal roles in governing Thubani, enhancing its economy and infrastructure, while maintaining loyalty to the Orinese monarchs.

The Orinese heavily invested in the development of shipbuilding industries, capitalising on Thubani's abundant timber resources. This led to the creation of a vibrant economy revolving around shipbuilding and maritime trade, thus making Thubani an essential naval outpost within the Orinese Empire.

In 1678, under the reign of Danya Hideshima Masaaki, the Orinese implemented the ‘Five Regions System’. Each region of the island was assigned a representative, creating a more structured and decentralised administration. This system was re-evaluated and adjusted every fifty years to accommodate changes in population and regional dynamics.

During the mid-18th century, the Orinese Empire experienced a surge in growth and global influence, and Thubani's strategic value increased correspondingly. New fortifications were added to the existing citadels, and the colonial military presence was significantly bolstered.

Religion played a substantial role during the colonial period. The introduction of the Amisti faith had profound effects on the island's culture. Despite initial resistance, Amisti practices and traditions gradually permeated Thubani's indigenous culture, becoming integral to the island's social fabric. Today, the Orinese New Year, Ahuni, is still celebrated as one of the major holidays in Thubani.

The late colonial period was characterised by growing unrest and the stirrings of a desire for independence. The policies of the last Danya, Tamashiro Katsumoto, who ruled from 1939 to 1969, became increasingly unpopular. Economic disparities, the exploitation of resources, and the imposition of Orinese culture fuelled resentment among the island's inhabitants, setting the stage for the coming struggle for independence.

Independence

The year 1969 marked a pivotal shift in the island's history, as Thubani became the last Orinese colony to gain its independence. The people of Thubani, weary of colonial rule and oppression, rallied around a leader named Ambatya Ndwiga (23 April 1920 – 29 August 1992), who led the resistance against the Orinese. Ndwiga, fluent in the island's native language, used it to disseminate anti-colonial sentiments among the people, organising strikes and acts of sabotage against the colonial rule. In July 1969, the Thubanese people revolted, declared their independence, and named Ndwiga as Prime Minister of the newly independent nation.

Independence signified the end of outside aid from Orioni, pushing Thubani to establish its own self-sustaining economy. By 1970, Thubani had joined the Assembled Nations, with fishing emerging as a major industry. The Thubanese people, understanding the sea as a divine gift, honed their fishing skills and learned to fish sustainably.

Ndwiga was succeeded by his daughter, Natsinda Butu (born 15 September 1951). She further developed the fishing industry by implementing catchment management to boost the productivity of the sea and passed a law prohibiting the use of foreign fishing nets in Thubanese waters.

Union with San Ba

See also: San Ba § History

In the early 1980s, the topic of Thubani's political alignment with its neighbour, San Ba, began to gain momentum. These two nations had long shared significant ethnocultural ties, extending from shared historical experiences to similar cultural practices and traditions. As a part of this geopolitical discourse, the possibility of a formal union between the two countries became a central point of discussion.

1982 referendum in Thubani.

Demonstration of the pro-unification camp.

The process leading up to the union was formalised by the Thubanese government under the leadership of Prime Minister Natsinda Butu, who was instrumental in organising a nationwide referendum on the issue. This decision came about in 1982, thirteen years after Thubani had secured its independence from Orinese rule, proof of the island's evolving political landscape.

The referendum was held on the 10 July 1982, and it asked the populace whether they wished for Thubani to enter into a union with San Ba. A majority of Thubanese citizens — an overwhelming 89.1% — voted in favour of the proposition. This clear mandate from the population signified a profound desire for this union and underscored the strong ethnocultural connections that had continued to bind the two nations.

Upon the successful passage of the referendum, the two governments swiftly began the process of unification. By the end of the year, the integration of Thubani into the political, social, and economic fabric of San Ba was largely complete. Thubani, while retaining its local governance, became a crucial part of the Sanbanese state.

Despite the political and cultural transition, a significant minority of Orinese descent remained in Thubani. Their cultural heritage and traditions, such as the celebration of Ahuni — the Orinese New Year — have remained a vibrant part of Thubanese society. This celebration is proof of the island's diverse cultural heritage and acts as a symbol of the peaceful coexistence between different cultural communities within the Thubanese populace. Even today, Ahuni continues to be one of the most significant holidays celebrated on the island, reflecting the resilience of Thubani's multicultural identity amidst its evolving political alliances.

Post-union developments

Following the union with San Ba in 1982, Thubani continued to develop its unique cultural and economic characteristics while integrating into the larger Sanbanese political and social structure. Thubani, though part of a larger state, was given significant autonomy, allowing it to foster its own local governance and legislative body.

In the late 1980s, under the leadership of Natsinda Butu, Thubani experienced an economic boom. The government focused on technological advancement and diversification of the economy, successfully introducing Information Technology (IT) and tourism sectors to augment its traditionally strong fishing industry. By the mid-1990s, Thubani had become a leading hub for technological innovation within the Sanbanese state, attracting international investment and talent.

However, this rapid economic development was not without its challenges. In 1999, Thubani faced a significant economic downturn due to a global recession. Fortunately, the robust economic policies and strong leadership of Prime Minister Butu helped Thubani weather this economic storm, and the country began to recover by the early 2000s.

During the 2000s, Thubani experienced significant demographic shifts. The island's success as a tech hub and its picturesque landscapes attracted an influx of immigrants from across the globe. While this boosted the island's economy, it also led to social tensions between the long-standing residents and the newcomers. In response, the Thubanese government implemented several initiatives aimed at social cohesion, including educational programmes to promote cultural understanding and integration.

In 2009, Thubani celebrated forty years of independence, and the event was marked by nationwide celebrations. The highlight of the event was a grand parade in the capital city, where the vibrant multicultural society of Thubani was on full display, reinforcing the island's identity as a diverse and inclusive society.

The following decade saw a generational shift in Thubani's leadership. In 2012, after 43 years of service, Natsinda Butu announced her retirement and was succeeded by her son, Mwaba Butu (born 7 June 1976). Under his leadership, Thubani has prioritised environmental sustainability, enhancing its reputation as a leading country in sustainable fishing practices and pushing for greener technology in its IT industry.

In 2023, Thubani marked a significant milestone — the 40th anniversary of its union with San Ba. The celebration showcased the unity and resilience of Thubani's people, who, despite their diverse backgrounds and cultures, have built a prosperous and harmonious society.

While the future will undoubtedly bring new challenges and opportunities, Thubani remains committed to its core values of autonomy, inclusivity, and sustainability. As part of San Ba, Thubani continues to assert its unique identity and contribute to the broader Sanbanese state. Its vibrant multicultural society and robust economy are evidence of its history and its potential for the future.

Politics

Government

Pre-colonial ruler, 12th Century. (See Shunten)

Thubani, while being part of San Ba, maintains a significant degree of autonomy under a semi-presidential republic system. The current structure of the government has its roots in the Orinese rule, where the island was governed by an appointed viceroy. Today, the role of the viceroy is embodied in the office of the Governor, appointed by the Sanbanese government.

The Thubanese government operates under a bicameral legislative system, with an upper house, known as the Council of Elders, and a lower house, referred to as the People's Assembly. The Council of Elders consists of five representatives, each representing a different region of the island. The People's Assembly, on the other hand, is made up of representatives elected by the Thubanese people in local elections held every five years.

The Governor, in consultation with the Council of Elders and the People's Assembly, appoints a Prime Minister, who heads the government and oversees the day-to-day administration of Thubani. The current Governor is Natsinda Butu, the daughter of Ambatya Ndwiga, who played a pivotal role in Thubani's fight for independence. The Prime Minister is Mwaba Butu, Natsinda's son.

Military

In terms of military, Thubani is unique among the territories of San Ba, as it does not maintain its own armed forces. This arrangement can be traced back to Thubani's history as a part of Orioni, from 1499 to 1969, during which it was protected by the Orinese military. After gaining sovereignty in 1969, Thubani maintained its security by relying on external defence partners.

Following the union with San Ba in 1982, Thubani requested that San Ba represent its foreign affairs and handle its defence interests, while retaining the right to self-govern these areas. As part of this agreement, the Thubanese Defence Force (TDF) was established. Stationed at the Naval Air Station in Mishigi since 1983, the TDF comprises primarily Sanbanese troops, but also includes Thubanese citizens.

In 2018, Thubani enhanced its security arrangements by signing the Rosario Sea Defence Cooperation Vision 2025. This multilateral security agreement, involving San Ba, Ide Jima, Kotowari, Tamurin, and Thubani, stipulates shared responsibilities for defence and surveillance among the signatory nations, solidifying Thubani's defence network.

Foreign relations

Thubani's foreign relations are primarily managed by San Ba, as per the agreement of their union. However, Thubani retains a significant influence over its foreign policy, often taking the lead in areas related to maritime rights, fisheries, and environmental sustainability. Thubani is a member of the Assembled Nations and regularly participates in regional forums related to its areas of interest.

Despite its historical ties with Orioni, Thubani has been able to establish its own diplomatic identity, which is heavily influenced by its commitment to peace, sustainability, and cooperation. In recent years, Thubani has been an active player in regional discussions on climate change and oceanic conservation, leading several initiatives on sustainable fishing and marine biodiversity.

Economy

Thubani's economy is deeply integrated with that of San Ba and is primarily built on a mix of mining, forestry, fishing, and more recently, sustainable tourism. The country's unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and the sustainable practices in its industries has made it a promising example of an emerging green economy.

Thubani has significant mineral wealth, with alabaster, tin, and tungsten being major mineral products. These are primarily mined in the K’onijo region and contribute significantly to the country's export earnings. While these mining operations are important for the economy, they are also carefully regulated to minimise environmental impact and preserve the natural beauty of Thubani.

Forestry, a major industry during the colonial period, saw the export of valuable woods such as teak and pine. However, unsustainable logging practices led to a significant reduction in the country's forests. Learning from past mistakes, what remains of these forests are now protected spaces, with the government implementing stringent laws to regulate logging and promote sustainable forestry practices. These areas are home to a rich array of flora and fauna, making them a significant resource for biodiversity.

K’onijo Bota National Park.

Covering 29% of the country's land area, there are seven national parks in Thubani, which are administered by the Ministry of the Interior. The largest of these is K’onijo Bota National Park (Oharic: 'beautiful place'). The national parks serve not only as a sanctuary for Thubani's diverse wildlife but also as proof of the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

The fishing industry, as in the past, remains an important economic driver. However, a shift towards sustainable fishing practices has allowed the country to continue to reap the benefits of this industry while ensuring the preservation of its marine resources. A key feature of this shift is the implementation of catchment management systems, which have helped improve the productivity of the sea and support the livelihoods of the local fishing communities.

With the rise of eco-tourism globally, Thubani has also been positioning itself as a sustainable tourism destination, leveraging its natural beauty, protected forests, and rich cultural heritage. This industry has grown considerably over the past few years, contributing to economic diversification and creating new job opportunities for the Thubanese people.

In line with its integration with San Ba, Thubani uses the Sanbanese Yuan as its official currency. Its central bank, the Bank of Thubani, oversees monetary policy in conjunction with San Ba's central bank, reflecting the close economic ties between the two.

Demographics

A woman wearing traditional Burkinese jewelery.

As of the latest census in 2023, Thubani has a population of approximately 873,831. The population is predominantly Thubanese-Sanbanese, but there is a substantial Orinese minority that has remained after the period of Orinese control. Other ethnic minorities in Thubani include small communities of Ide Jiman and Kotowaran people.

The official language of Thubani is Sanbanese, with Oharic also widely spoken. The island's linguistic diversity is proof of its rich history and cultural blending. Despite this diversity, the Sanbanese and Orinese populations have coexisted relatively peacefully, owing to shared cultural values and mutual respect for their distinct traditions.

The capital city, Mishigi, is the most populous city, home to over a quarter of the country's total population. Other significant urban areas include Adib and Youshu. The rest of the population lives in smaller towns and rural areas scattered across the island.

Culture

Traditional simimineti dance team.

Thubani's culture is a unique blend of Sanbanese, Orinese, and indigenous Thubanese traditions. While Sanbanese influence is prevalent due to the country's political union, the enduring presence of Orinese and Thubanese traditions make the island's cultural blend vibrant and unique.

Music is deeply intertwined with Thubanese daily life and socio-economic activities. It's common for the locals to sing to their livestock, a practice believed to calm the animals and improve their health. These songs often reflect the lives of the people, their relationship with the environment, and their hopes and dreams. The importance of music extends into communal gatherings and festivities, where traditional music plays a central role.

The simimineti dance, a cornerstone of Thubanese culture, is a common sight at cultural festivals and celebrations. The term 'simimineti' roughly translates to “harmony” in Oharic, reflecting the dance's nature. It involves a series of uniform movements, underpinned by the principle of unity and cohesion among the performers. The dance is often accompanied by music played on traditional instruments, which include the tara (a stringed instrument), the kisumo (a type of drum), and the mejiro (a flute-like instrument). The dance and its accompanying music are not only a form of entertainment, but also a social glue that brings the community together.

In addition to music and dance, Thubani's culture is characterised by rich oral traditions, colourful textile arts, and intricate wood carving. Thubanese cuisine, heavily influenced by Sanbanese and Orinese culinary practices, features locally sourced seafood, tropical fruits, and a variety of spices, making it a vibrant and unique blend of flavours. The country's religious life is also diverse, with a majority of the population adhering to the Amisti faith, alongside smaller communities of other religious backgrounds.