Chief Gobo burial set for tomorrow

THE late Chief Gobo of Silobela, Kwekwe District, in the Midlands Province who died on Monday is set to be buried at his home tomorrow (Saturday).

Born Clever Machona Musindo, Chief Gobo died at the age of 65 at Gweru Provincial Hospital after a short illness.

He was initially admitted to Silobela District Hospital and later transferred to Gweru after his condition deteriorated and died early Monday morning.

Kwekwe District Development Coordinator Mr Fortune Mupungu confirmed that the burial is set for Saturday.

“If all goes according to plan, he will be buried on Saturday in Silobela,” said Mr Mupungu.

Meanwhile, condolence messages for the late traditional leader continue to pour in following his untimely death.

Midlands Provincial Chief’s Council chairperson, Senator Chief Zama Ngungumbane, said he was still in shock.

“We have learnt with great sorrow and shock the passing on of Chief Gobo at the Gweru Provincial Hospital in the early hours of Monday. He was appointed chief in 2003, meaning that he served his people, the institution of traditional leadership and the generality for 21 years,” said Senator Chief Ngungumbane.

He described him as a humble figure who will not be easy to replace.

“He was a humble, understanding, quiet epitome of knowledge and visionary leader. In difficult times, the Midlands Provincial Assembly turned to him for guidance and wisdom.

“We will forever cherish his wisdom and contribution to development, upholding cultural values and traditions and respect for humanity,” said Sen Chief Ngungumbane. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gobo family, the Silobela community and country at large.”

His Zhombe counterpart, Chief Weight Ndabezinhle Gwesela said the traditional leadership institution has lost a pillar of strength, one they always turned to for guidance.

“We had a humble traditional leader who led by example and never had problems with anyone. I remember just a few months back, he invited me to his area for a programme and we had a very good time, I didn’t know that was the last time I was going to see him. Our prayers go to the family at this time of need,” he said.

Silobela legislator Cde Jonah Nyevera said he worked well with the late chief for the development of the area.

Chief Gobo was born on December 29, 1959 in Mvuma from the Ndoziva sub-house. Before his appointment as substantive chief, he worked as a builder in his community. A war collaborator, Chief Gobo was also a renowned farmer.

He was appointed chief on February 27, 2003 and was installed on October 29, 2003 following the death of the late Chief Gobo-Makore in 1997. He is survived by wife, five children and 10 grandchildren.