Sikhumbuzo Moyo in Umzingwane
ZIMBABWE will today (Wednesday) witness the installation of its seventh female traditional leader when 47-year-old Chief Nomalanga Sigola takes over the reins from her late father, Chief Zephania Sigola, who died on May 1, 2023.
The installation ceremony will be held at Sigola Primary School in Umzingwane District, Matabeleland South.
Chief Nomalanga becomes the latest woman to ascend to the traditional leadership throne, continuing her family’s traditional leadership legacy in the area.
The country’s first female chief, Chief Sinqobile Mabhena, was installed in 1997, nearly three decades ago.
Other female traditional leaders include Chief Ketso Mathe of Gwanda, Chief Mvuthu (Silibaziso Mlotshwa), who became the first female chief in Matabeleland North following an 11-year court battle, Regent Chief Mabhikwa (Zanele Khumalo), the late Chief Ncube (Nonhlanhla Sibanda), and Chief Chimukoko of Mashonaland East.
Today’s ceremony is set to be presided over by officials from the Office of the Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
