In a brief excerpt from “African Mermaids and Other Water Spirits” included in the Penguin Book of Mermaids, it is illustrated that African mermaids are seen as guardians of the water against industrialization. There had been rumored sightings of constructions in the water, “mermais were blamed for delays in the construction of a reservoir at Mutare, also in Zimbabwe” (166). This rumor suggests that mermaids protect the ocean to prevent industrialization from entering its sacred depths.

To “blame” mermaids for ‘delays’ or ‘stop’ of construction highlights the strength of power they hold over man. The mermaid’s dedication to protecting its waters illustrates an understanding of life on land and the consequences of industrialization. Once again, it highlights how mermaids possess more knowledge than humans. The mermaid possesses the ability not to fear humans. The ‘delay in construction’ showcases humans adjusting to the whims of nature. 

The mermaids were described as “angry spirits” and appeared as “a mermaid and a large snake” (167). As previously noted in other stories, the mermaid, often referred to as ‘half fish,’ is depicted as a serpent, symbolizing protection, transformation, and wisdom. This shows that the mermaid has access to the human world and knowledge about it, revealing her face only when necessary or when threatened. The act of the mermaid only appearing when they are ‘angered’ showcases the mermaid’s knowledge and disagreements with humans trying to invade the waters. 

Humans cannot travel into the water to access the mermaid; only the mermaid can travel to shore and testify to the humans. The power is in the mermaid’s hands, to be seen, not to be seen, known, or not to be known. Meanwhile, the humans are left in the dark, unable to comprehend what they encountered or why. Thus, this portrays the mermaid as the guardian of the ocean, appearing when humans encroach on its territory to protect against their industrial activities.