Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in HWEDZA
TRADITIONAL leadership comes with a huge responsibility that requires more than simply being the rightful candidate for a traditional authority, but also the ability to effectively discharge the duties that come with the role, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.
He made the remarks yesterday during the installation of Headman Beaven Makwarimba under Chief Svosve in Hwedza.
Headman Makwarimba was installed in place of his father, who opted to have his son take up the traditional leadership position, citing his ability to better serve the community.
The father also noted that the 45-year-old Beaven was younger and had the benefit of formal education, which would strengthen the community’s governance and development priorities.
VP Chiwenga commended the decision.
“I am pleased that Beaven has accepted traditional leadership and that he has been given the responsibility as a son, even though his father still remained the rightful candidate to the throne,” said VP Chiwenga.
The VP congratulated everyone involved, including Makwarimba, for taking up the role.
VP Chiwenga said traditional leadership should not be viewed as an entitlement based solely on inheritance, but should also take into account an individual’s capability and readiness to serve.
“That is what has happened here. I want to congratulate you, Mr Makwarimba, for that wise decision and for putting the people at the centre of your thinking.”
Turning to the newly installed headman, VP Chiwenga encouraged him to draw wisdom from his parents and community elders, saying their experience and counsel would be valuable in his new role.
He also encouraged Headman Makwarimba to embrace servant leadership and prioritise the well-being of the people.
“To you, Beaven, your parents are here, so please take their wise counsel. Let it guide you as you lead. You must also demonstrate servant leadership,” said VP Chiwenga.
“Do not lead simply to do what you want; lead with empathy, discipline and service to the people. It is true that the voice of the people is the voice of God, and therefore you must serve your people well”.
He urged the new headman to study the Traditional Leadership Act.
“It is very important that you study it. It will tell you where your power begins and where it ends. It will also clearly outline your responsibilities.
“That is very simple for you to follow, so make sure you understand it fully and as you do your work, always seek God’s guidance and blessings,” said VP Chiwenga.
Beyond leadership and service, VP Chiwenga highlighted the responsibility of traditional leaders in protecting the country’s natural resources and safeguarding the environment.
He said traditional leaders have a duty to protect the land, which was defended during the liberation struggle, while ensuring that development activities did not destroy the natural resources on which communities depend.
The VP also spoke about the country’s abundant mineral resources, and encouraged traditional leaders to ensure that mining activities were conducted legally and responsibly.
“Yes, the country has abundant mineral resources, but mining should not be done haphazardly. It should be done the right way, legally and responsibly,” said VP Chiwenga.
“If people pan wherever they like, without care or proper procedures, then the environment will be destroyed. That compromises the sustainability of livelihoods.”
He further called on traditional authorities to protect forests and trees, warning against uncontrolled cutting of trees and environmental degradation.
Communities were also encouraged to preserve pastures and protect the environment to ensure that natural resources remained available for future generations.
“We should protect the environment. We should not allow people to cut down trees in an uncontrolled manner, because that is not the way to go.
“Let us protect the environment for future generations, so that our children and grandchildren inherit a healthy and productive land,” VP Chiwenga said.
