malvernmugadzikwa
Bulawayo Bureau
A SEA of people gathered at Nejambezi Primary School in Jambezi, Hwange district, to pay their last respects to Chief Shana III, who passed away last Sunday. He was 83.
Mourners described Chief Shana III, born Zondani Jonah Neluswi, as a humble and wise man who was a unifier.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, who was standing in for President Mnangagwa, said the Government acknowledges the role played by Chief Shana as a nation-builder and unifier.
“I have come with words of comfort from the President. He acknowledges the role that Chief Shana played. It is not only a loss to the family but the nation. He was a nation-builder and unifier,” said Minister Garwe.
The Government, he added, acknowledged the role that traditional leaders play in fostering development.
“It’s important to note that traditional leaders play a key function and as Government, we have been working with traditional leaders such as Chief Shana in driving development in communities.”
Minister Garwe said the Government was working towards further improving the welfare of chiefs.
Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda said Chief Shana played a crucial role in the country’s liberation struggle by facilitating passage to those who participated in the war.
“Chief Shana was a war collaborator who facilitated the movement of many who joined the liberation struggle, including our Secretary-General, Dr (Obert) Mpofu. ZIPRA and Umkonto weSizwe passed through and the chief would take care of their needs. This shows that traditional leaders played a huge role in the liberation struggle.”
Matabeleland North Chiefs Provincial Assembly chairperson Senator Chief Siansali saluted the late traditional leader, describing him as a people’s hero, who deserved national recognition. “My heart is heavy with grief. Chief Shana fought to develop this province. He was one of the longest-serving chiefs and as traditional leaders, we thank the Government for assisting during his illness and funeral.”
Deputy president of the National Chiefs Council, Chief Fortune Charumbira, who was representing the council’s president, Chief Mtshane Khumalo, took mourners down memory lane.
“Because of his hard work, (Chief) Shana held various portfolios in the Chiefs Council and Parliament. He was a good leader who listened to his people. He was a wise man who helped in uniting us as traditional leaders, especially when there was conflict,” said Chief Charumbira.
Chief Shana III, he said, played a huge role in advocating the recognition of traditional leaders through initiatives such as the rural electrification programme.
Chief Shana III was born on July 1, 1940.
He died at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo last Sunday. His burial was attended by senior Government officials, who included Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Richard Moyo; and the ZANU PF leadership.
Online Reporter