Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
CHIEF Makoni has installed Presidential and National Scholarships Department executive director and Chipinge Central legislator, Honourable Raymond Machingura, as Headman Ruredzo, bringing the prominent public servant and parliamentarian into the traditional leadership structure of the Makoni dynasty.
The installation ceremony, held recently at Zimati Primary School in Makoni District, marks a return to traditional leadership for the Ruredzo lineage, which occupies an important place in the history of the VaUngwe people and the broader Makoni chieftainship.
As Headman Ruredzo, Honourable Machingura will be responsible for overseeing community development initiatives, promoting social cohesion, preserving cultural values and assisting in the resolution of local disputes in accordance with customary law.
Speaking during the installation ceremony, Chief Makoni said he expected the new headman to play a pivotal role in strengthening grassroots governance and driving development within his jurisdiction.
He said the Ruredzo lineage occupies a special place in the history of the Makoni dynasty.
“Our ancestor Ruredzo, from whom Honourable Machingura traces his lineage, is the one who bore families eligible for the Makoni chieftainship. Ruredzo was also the custodian of Mhanda Mountain, a place of great historical significance to our clan where fierce battles were fought to repel an invasion by Chief Mutasa. The mountain still contains skeletal remains dating back centuries,” said Chief Makoni.
He urged Headman Ruredzo to use his new position to promote unity, preserve the cultural heritage of the VaUngwe people and spearhead development programmes within the community.
“We expect Headman Ruredzo to strengthen traditional leadership structures, safeguard our cultural values and work closely with Government and other stakeholders to improve the livelihoods of people under his jurisdiction,” he said. The appointment comes amid ongoing efforts by traditional leaders in Makoni District to appoint headmen and village heads in some resettlement areas, a process that has attracted attention following a Government directive suspending such appointments pending the resolution of traditional boundary disputes.
Honourable Machingura’s appointment will, however, remain subject to the relevant legal and administrative processes governing the recognition of traditional leaders.
Speaking shortly after his installation, Honourable Machingura expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in him by the Makoni traditional leadership and pledged to serve his community with dedication and integrity.
“I am honoured to have been chosen as Headman Ruredzo. I will discharge my duties diligently and work towards the development and well-being of my people,” he said.
He emphasised that the traditional leadership role would not interfere with his responsibilities as a Member of Parliament or his duties in Government. “This appointment does not affect my current responsibilities, including my role as a Member of the House of Assembly. I will continue serving both my constituency and my community to the best of my abilities,” said Honourable Machingura.
