admin“Zilga respects the role of traditional leaders and acknowledges that the success of all communities lies in the chiefs. There is no doubt that the institution of traditional leaders is the most organised and should be emulated by other institutions for them to be respected in society,” said Clr Mpofu.
“I have visited most chiefs at their homesteads and I strongly think that something should be done to improve the social status and living conditions of chiefs.”
Clr Mpofu, popularly known by her maiden name MaMnkandla, called on the Government to come up with policies that would give traditional leaders the powers and the mandate to be custodians of environment management so that they protect their communities.
She applauded the Ministry of Local Government, Rural and Urban Development for organising the chiefs’ conference annually.
“The annual chiefs’ conference gives the traditional leaders the chance to reflect on important issues as they play a leading role in shaping the country’s future.
“Zilga supports the Government in all its endeavours to infuse progress in the chiefs’ council and encourages the communities to respect this institution,” said Clr Mpofu.
A delegate from the Namibian chiefs’ council said chiefs were peacemakers who should be respected in their communities.
“Our presence here as the Namibian delegation is evidence of our strong and mutual relationship with Zimbabwe. We appreciate the opportunity forwarded to us to grace this important occasion.
“I am certain that peace and tranquillity will always prevail in Zimbabwe as chiefs are peacemakers who value culture and traditional values and they deserve to be respected,” he said.
He also congratulated President Mugabe on turning 88 two weeks ago.
“I would like to congratulate his Excellency Cde Mugabe on turning 88 years. We wish him many more years to come and all the best in his endeavours.
“On behalf of the people of Namibia, I would like to wish the chiefs here present, a pleasant and successful conference which will make a big difference in the country,” he said.
Historian Dr Vimbai Chivaura said the chiefs were the owners of the land whose spirits lived on to protect the country.
“Chiefs are the owners of this land and we are here to exorcise the evil spirits that are trying to destroy the people of Zimbabwe.
“If anyone takes away land from the people of Zimbabwe, they would have destroyed them. But what I know is that leaders do not die as their spirits live on to protect their people and their cultural values,” said Dr Chivaura.
He condemned homosexuality, saying chiefs should rally behind President Mugabe against the practice in their communities.
The chiefs’ conference was officially opened by President Mugabe yesterday and was graced by Cabinet ministers, senior Government officials and the chiefs’ spouses.
Bulawayo, on behalf of Mashonaland East Province, is hosting the belated 2011 conference, which officially ends today.
Online Reporter