adminReligion Writer —
TRADITIONAL leaders have claimed that the heavy rains received so far are a result of their rain-making ceremonies held last year.
Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs deputy president Chief Musarurwa, born Enos Musarurwa, attributed the rains to Mukwerera/Umtolo.
He said although scientific explanations could not be ignored, it was vital to emphasise the role played by chiefs and other traditional leaders in asking for rains from God.
Chief Musarurwa also noted that despite the torrential rains, farmers will still have a bumper harvest.
“Sometime last year your publication carried a story after we conducted one of the biggest rain-making ceremonies in the county in Manhize, Chikapakapa area in Chivhu. This is the place where it all started.
“We promised that the ceremonies would be unique and effective and as traditionalists, we corrected a number of anomalies that have been affecting the flow of the practice for years.
“Eventually, Musikavanhu (God) answered our prayers,” he said.
Chief Musarurwa said as custodians of culture, it is their responsibility to intercede between God and His people to ensure that rain asking and thanksgiving ceremonies are done procedurally.
Mukwerera/Umtolo is held before the start of every rain season and is led by elderly women who are post-menopause.
The women are responsible for brewing beer for the ritual. They also work with young children who are not yet sexually active.
Traditionalists claim that when the rain-asking ceremony is properly done, rains will start falling as the people dance or soon afterwards.
Online Reporter