New Chief Chiwundura installed . . . Government pledges close support for traditional leaders

THE Government remains committed to strengthening ties with traditional leaders, recognising their pivotal role in driving socio-economic development and improving livelihoods across the country, a Cabinet Minister has said.

Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, said this during the recent installation ceremony of Abedinico Tavengwa as Chief Chiwundura of Chiwundura area on the outskirts of Gweru, at a ceremony that was attended by hundreds of villagers and Government officials at Gunde High School in Chiwundura.

He said under the Second Republic’s Vision 2030, which aims to propel Zimbabwe towards upper-middle-income status, Zimbabwe is working closely with chiefs and other traditional leaders to ensure no community is left behind.

Minister Garwe called on traditional leaders to uphold cultural values and safeguard the environment in line with Vision 2030.

“Chiefs, as custodians of tradition and culture, are being empowered by the Second Republic led by President Mnangagwa to spearhead development initiatives in their respective areas,” he said.

“The Government acknowledges their importance as conduits for socio-economic growth and is collaborating with them to accelerate the rollout of key programmes.”
Minister Garwe noted that chiefs’ duties are guided by the Traditional Leaders Act.

“To the newly appointed Chief, your role as the traditional head of the community in your jurisdiction, you shall, in terms of the Traditional Leaders Act, be responsible, among others, to promote and uphold cultural values among members of the community under your jurisdiction, particularly the preservation of the extended family and promotion of traditional family life,” he said.

The newly installed leader becomes the fifth Chief Chiwundura following his appointment by President Mnangagwa last year.

As part of his conditions of service, Chief Chiwundura received a vehicle at the ceremony.
Speakers at the ceremony said the installation marked a new chapter for the Chiwundura community, with expectations that the chief will strengthen governance structures and spearhead development initiatives.

Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube underscored the statutory responsibilities of traditional leaders, particularly in promoting cultural heritage and implementing national programmes at grassroots level.

“You are mandated to ensure that you help in the feeding of your people through Zunde Ramambo/Isiphala Senkosi. You are also mandated to convey Government projects to your people,” he said.

“We rely on you for everything to do with development in your community. I urge the Chief to treat everyone fairly with respect and love.”

Chief Ngungubane from the Chief Council said the installation of Chief Chiwundura comes as Government continues to emphasise the role of traditional leaders as custodians of culture, drivers of rural development and stewards of environmental conservation.

“The installation of Chief Chiwundura is a great addition to the Midlands Province traditional leadership. We have no doubt that he will actively contribute to community governance and development in the Chiwundura area,” he said.

Villagers also expressed optimism that the new chief would reinforce unity and accelerate ongoing development projects.

Mr Nathan Sibanda a villager said they are looking ahead to years of community development under the new Chief.

“To the new Chief Chiwundura I say, your role as a chief extends beyond tradition; it encompasses the vital duties of fostering development, nurturing community cohesion and driving progress in your jurisdiction. So, we are looking forward to seeing you drive your area to development,” he said.