Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
THE Office of the Master of the High Court has officially opened its doors in Victoria Falls, reinforcing Government efforts to decentralise critical services and transform legal and estate administration for communities in Matabeleland North Province.
The new office commenced operations on Tuesday, aligning with the Government’s broader vision of enhancing access to justice and bringing essential services closer to the people — a key pillar in the drive to achieve an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
In an exclusive interview with Zimpapers, the Master of the High Court, Mr Eldard Mutasa, said the establishment of the Victoria Falls branch was the result of years of advocacy and awareness, notably championed by the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.
“You will recall that we had awareness campaigns spearheaded by the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, back in 2018, 2019 and 2020, and these efforts have continued. I remember, when we visited Matabeleland North, she expressed her hope that an office would be established here to help the public understand our operations.
“We stated some time ago that our offices should be present in every province, and I am pleased that we have now established one in Matabeleland North, starting with Victoria Falls. This must be done in a structured manner. We are working to balance all provinces, and this marks our seventh. We are decentralising the operations of the office,” said Mr Mutasa.
The core function of the Master’s Office is the administration of deceased estates — a process Mr Mutasa described as often emotional and vulnerable to exploitation due to a lack of legal knowledge.
“To a large extent, people are unaware of the law. Unfortunately, in some cases, those considered elders in the family — who are expected to guide others — may instead seek to exploit the situation.
“There are relatives who attempt to take advantage of a person’s death to enrich themselves. They invoke certain cultural practices to justify taking assets left behind by the deceased. We have seen electrical appliances and vehicles being taken during or after funerals or memorial services. As Government, we are here to protect against such exploitation,” he said.
Beyond deceased estates, the office’s mandate includes company liquidations, corporate rescue assignments, and management of the Guardian’s Fund, which holds and administers funds on behalf of minors under the age of 18.
“We supervise how those funds are used for the benefit of the child. If the funds are sufficient, the child may be supported through their education — even up to university level. We monitor whether the funds are being applied appropriately and whether the guardian is acting responsibly,” said Mr Mutasa.
The recent establishment of the Master’s Office as an independent statutory board has further empowered it to deliver these essential services efficiently across all levels of society.
Mr Mutasa encouraged the local community to take full advantage of the new office.
“People in Victoria Falls should consider themselves fortunate. Many myths and false beliefs persist — not just here but in other communities — such as the notion that a girl child is not entitled to inheritance.
“Everyone is entitled to inheritance. You qualify by virtue of being a child, a surviving spouse, a sibling, or a parent. We are now serving Victoria Falls and surrounding areas including Hwange, Lupane and Binga. The Office of the Master is now closer to you. So, come and ask questions. Do not be misled, do not be intimidated. We are a listening Government,” he said.
The opening has been welcomed by local legal professionals, who have long witnessed the challenges residents face. Victoria Falls-based legal practitioner, Mr Thulani Nkala, highlighted the significant relief the office will bring, particularly in handling deceased estates.
“It simplifies many complications. For example, people often try to sell deceased estates that are not registered. Now that the Master of the High Court office is available for e-registration, residents no longer need to travel to Bulawayo.
“Most properties and deceased estates in Victoria Falls are not registered, and it has been difficult explaining to people that — even if it was your parent’s house — it is not legally yours until it is registered, estate duty is paid and other formalities are completed. Now that the office is here, I believe it will help many people,” he said.
