adminLeonard Ncube in Binga
NONAH Mungombe of Binga was yesterday installed as Chief Siachilaba amid calls for traditional leaders to familiarise themselves with the Traditional Leaders’ Act so that they can be able to fully execute their duties.
Mungombe, 48, was installed as Chief Siachilaba, three years after the death of his nephew Mackson Mujimba who died in 2010.
Speaking at a colourful ceremony held at Siachilaba Secondary School, Rural Development Promotion and Preservation of National Culture and Heritage Minister, Abednico Ncube, who was guest of honour, urged traditional leaders to acquaint themselves with the Act.
“As government we’re calling upon traditional leaders to familiarise themselves with the Traditional Leaders’ Act so that they execute their duties diligently. As a traditional leader, one must ensure that he or she is there for the community,” he said.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs for Matabeleland North, Cain Mathema, appealed for unity, urging the people of Binga to rally behind their new chief.
“As a chief you need to perform the functions described in the Traditional Leaders’ Act while promoting and preserving cultural values among members of the community. I hope the spirit of oneness will remain embedded in the smooth discharge of chieftainship duties.
“You have to ensure developmental issues such as provision of water, roads, schools and others are realised. We worked well with the late Chief Mackson Mujimba and we hope the new substantive chief will continue doing the same,” said Cde Mathema.
The President of the Chief’s council, Chief Fortune Charumbira, challenged traditional leaders to “play a unique role in the preservation of culture.”
Mungombe’s installation puts to an end a five-year wrangle over the chieftaincy which involved his cousins and uncles who were opposed to his appointment.
Born on March 4, 1968 at Siamwinde Village, Nkalange in Ward 10, Mungombe did his education at Siachilaba Primary School and Manjolo Secondary.
After school he worked for United Refineries Ltd in Bulawayo and Main Construction Company in Harare. He is a farmer in Lusulu.
The deputy president of the Chiefs’ Council, Chief Mtshane Khumalo, chiefs Mathuphula and Gampu of Tsholotsho, Sikalenge, Pashu and others from Binga, heads of government departments as well as villagers from Binga district attended the ceremony.
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