Pronunciation: [zˈɑːnuː] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "ZANU" is relatively easy. It is pronounced as [ˈzæːnu], with the stress on the first syllable. The first sound is a voiced alveolar fricative "z", followed by a long "a" sound, which is similar to "ah" in English. The second syllable starts with a short "n" sound and ends with a long "u" sound, similar to "oo" in "boot". ZANU is an acronym for "Zimbabwe African National Union" and is a political party in Zimbabwe.
ZANU, also known as the Zimbabwe African National Union, is a political party based in Zimbabwe. The acronym ZANU stands for Zimbabwe African National Union, pointing to the party's efforts in advocating for the rights and interests of African Zimbabweans.
ZANU was founded in August 1963 by Ndabaningi Sithole and Herbert Chitepo, with the primary objective of achieving independence for Zimbabwe from colonial rule. The party played a crucial role in the country's liberation struggle against British colonialism, seeking to establish an independent Zimbabwe that would be governed by the aspirations and needs of its African population.
After an armed conflict against the white-minority rule that took place from the late 1960s to the '80s, Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980. ZANU, under the leadership of Robert Mugabe, emerged as the dominant political force and has remained in power for many years, until Mugabe's resignation in 2017.
ZANU has undergone various splits and divisions throughout its history, resulting in the establishment of factions such as ZANU-PF (Zimbabwe African National Union - Patriotic Front) and ZANU-Ndonga. ZANU-PF, currently led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has continued to be a significant force in Zimbabwean politics.
Today, the term "ZANU" is commonly used to refer to ZANU-PF, the ruling party in Zimbabwe. It represents a political ideology that emphasizes African nationalism, social progress, and self-determination for Zimbabweans.
