Chief Dakamela recognised for cultural leadership

IN a groundbreaking recognition, Chief Dakamela of Nkayi District in Matabeleland North Province has been honoured by the Neighbour Magazine as the most outstanding innovative traditional leader in Zimbabwe.

This is the first time a traditional leader has been honoured in such a manner within the country.

The Neighbour Magazine, a Bulawayo-based media organisation known for celebrating excellence in sports and music, has expanded its horizons to acknowledge a traditional leader who has made significant contributions to national initiatives.

Chief Dakamela’s pioneering development efforts have set him apart, earning him this unique recognition.

In a trailblazing move, Chief Dakamela has become the first in his region to establish the revered Isibaya Senkosi and Isiphala Senkosi, setting a new standard for cultural leadership. His vision extends beyond ceremonies; he is a beacon of hope, recognising and uplifting community members and distinguished individuals throughout Matabeleland. With a heart for service, he has crafted homes for the elderly, ensuring they spend their twilight years in comfort and dignity. Moreover, his commitment to education shines through the scholarship programme he founded, offering a lifeline to the underprivileged youth of Nkayi, igniting dreams and opening doors to a brighter future.

Stanley Nyathi, the Neighbour Magazine manager shared insights into the selection process.

“While all chiefs hold the same status, their contributions to society are quite diverse. We have never awarded any chief before, nor have we heard of a chief being awarded in this country, so Chief Dakamela is indeed the first one to be awarded, especially by us,” he said.

The magazine’s decision to honour Chief Dakamela was influenced by his influential role and his capacity to generate innovative ideas.

“As we observed the measures Chief Dakamela was taking in his jurisdiction, we reasoned that such progress should not go in vain. The annual gatherings that the chief is holding have impacted many lives in Nkayi District,” said Nyathi.

Nyathi further revealed that the Neighbour Magazine had engaged with Chief Dakamela to understand more about his annual events and other initiatives.

“We then came to realise that Chief Dakamela is a development-oriented traditional leader who has people at heart hence the award. He has been impacting many lives since his installation, with some people owning houses by now,” he said.

The magazine’s manager confirmed that the electing committee conducts a thorough examination of each candidate before bestowing awards.

In a separate interview, Chief Dakamela expressed his gratitude.

“I am always humbled and also thankful to God and my ancestors. To be honest, it feels good to be appreciated,” the chief humbly remarked.

Adding to his accolades, the Matabeleland Cultural Awards (MCA) recently honoured Chief Dakamela as the outstanding traditional leader in the country.

Since assuming his role at the young age of 24, Chief Dakamela has launched numerous initiatives aimed at promoting and preserving culture within his community.

He has revitalised cultural practices such as Isiphala Senkosi and Isibaya Senkosi and has rekindled the spirit of the annually held cultural gatherings, which had been neglected for some time. — @TeamKarubwa