Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
LOCAL Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has appealed to local authorities to allow chiefs to participate in council meetings.
Minister Garwe made the clarion call during the installation of Mr Austin Murwira as substantive Chief Chihota, in Marondera District recently.
Minister Garwe highlighted the important role that chiefs play in society, hence his call for them to participate in council meetings.
“As guardians of culture, chiefs play a vital role in ensuring council decisions respect traditional values and practices,” he said.
“Their attendance and active participation in council meetings and relevant forums are crucial to safeguard the well-being of their communities.
“They are also responsible for overseeing levy and tax collection through village heads, collaborating with development committees on local projects and coordinating drought and famine relief efforts under the guidance of the District Development Coordinator or Rural District Councils.
“The chief is required to inform the Rural District Council about homestead disposals, inhabitant departures and new settler arrivals (and) notify the council promptly about outbreaks of diseases, natural disasters or other emergencies affecting his area’s inhabitants, livestock, crops or the environment.”
The Minister appealed to Chief Chihota to treat all his people fairly and to be a unifier.
“Given the contentious nature of chieftainship succession, dissatisfaction among some claimants is inevitable,” he said.
“I therefore advise Chief Chihota to lead inclusively, avoiding personal revenge and instead focus on uniting the Chihota clan,” he said.
“To the clan, I appeal for unity and support for the new chief, ensuring the Chihota legacy thrives in Zimbabwe’s history.”
In his remarks, Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, said chiefs play a vital role in the development of communities.
“The path ahead is indeed a noble one. Chief Chihota, your leadership will be instrumental in building a prosperous Mashonaland East Province and contributing to Vision 2030.
“Your role as a chief extends beyond tradition; it encompasses the vital duties of fostering development, nurturing community cohesion and driving progress in your jurisdiction.
“I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Chiefs Assembly for their diligent recommendations, which have culminated in this significant appointment. Honourable Minister, we recognise the important task that lies ahead in the formal appointment of the remaining chiefs, starting with Chief Nyakuchena. We trust that you will successfully complete this crucial endeavour.”
Chief Chihota’s installation follows his appointment by President Mnangagwa in December last year.
