Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa in CHIMANIMANI
MR Norman Mutambara was this afternoon officially installed as the substantive Chief of the Mutambara Clan, ending decades of contestation over the Mutambara chieftainship.
The installation ceremony took place at Guhune Secondary School in Chimanimani, drawing the attendance of Government officials, traditional leaders, and community members.
Addressing the gathering at the installation ceremony, Local Government and Public Works Deputy Minister, Engineer Benjamin Kabikira, who was representing Minister Daniel Garwe said the appointment is a major step in reasserting traditional authority in the region under the guidance of the Second Republic.
He said Government under President Mnangagwa recognises chiefs as vital players in local governance and national development.
“The Second Republic has made it clear that traditional leadership is not a ceremonial role. Chiefs are the backbone of rural governance and custodians of our identity. That is why government has prioritised resolving historical leadership conflicts and empowering traditional leaders with the tools and authority to lead effectively,” he said.
Born on May 14, 1962, in Ngani Village, Chief Mutambara is the fifth son of the late Mr Samuel Mutambara.
He completed his primary education at Mutambara Reserve Primary School and proceeded to Mutambara Mission for his secondary education, finishing in 1977.
In 1981, he joined the Zimbabwe Republic Police and served until his retirement in 2018.
He is married with four sons and two daughters.
In his address, Chief Mutambara pledged to serve with humility and uphold cultural values and the laws of the country.
“This chieftainship comes with great responsibility. I will uphold our traditions and work for the unity and development of our people,” he said.
The Mutambara community, which had endured years of uncertainty over traditional leadership following the death of the former Chief Mutambara in 2013, welcomed the installation with celebrations and traditional rituals.
