Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
ONE of Beitbridge District’s senior traditional leaders, Headman Mabidi, was laid to rest on Tuesday at his Mtetengwe homestead amid an outpouring of grief from the local community and dignitaries, including Vice President Kembo Mohadi, who hails from the same area.
Born Mina Mine Mbedzi on February 3, 1968, Headman Mabidi passed on last Wednesday at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) after a short illness. He was 57.
The burial took place at the family shrine early Tuesday morning, in accordance with Tshivenda cultural rites, underlining the deep traditional roots that defined his leadership.
In a heartfelt graveside tribute, Chief Tshitaudze described the late headman as a pillar of wisdom and humility whose dedication to his people and the preservation of local customs was firm.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Headman Mabidi. He was a voice of reason in our traditional leadership structures for the past nine years, always prioritising community engagement and wide consultation before making important decisions,” he said.
More than just a traditional leader, Headman Mabidi was a passionate environmentalist, known for his relentless efforts to protect communal grazing land, conserve indigenous vegetation and combat the illegal cutting of trees in his jurisdiction under Chief Tshitaudze area.
“Here, lies a great man who prioritised community engagement. He was full of respect and had a passion to preserve the Tshivenda culture, at the same time being able to embrace those who believed in the modern way of life,” said Chief Tshitaudze.
His leadership legacy includes spearheading several community development projects, among them the upgrading of a local primary school, the construction of a community hall and a mothers’ waiting shelter at Mtetengwe Clinic.
Chief Tshitaudze said headman Mabidi took a firm stand against the unlawful sale of communal land and deforestation for firewood.
District Development Coordinator (DDC) Sikhangezile Mafu-Moyo also paid tribute to the late headman, describing him as one of the district’s most dedicated traditional leaders.
There are 10 headmen in the district, and with the passing of Headman Mabidi, alongside the unfilled posts of Headmen Mazibeli and Tshinoni, three positions are now vacant.
Mrs Mafu-Moyo said the community will observe a 12-month mourning period before a successor is appointed through a process rooted in customary law and family consultations.
She said Headman Mabidi was appointed substantive headman in September 2019, and although his time in office was relatively short, his impact will be felt for generations.
“This is a loss to all of us within Beitbridge and we hope that whoever will succeed him will be very humble and follow in his footsteps,” said Mrs Mafu-Moyo.
