Online Reporter
NQOBILE TSHILI, [email protected]
A moving tradition unfolded as the Mabhikwa family, still grieving the loss of Chief Mabhikwa (Vusumuzi Khumalo), named his nine-year-old son as his rightful heir. Until the young Wayne Makhosemvelo Khumalo comes of age to fully assume his duties, his aunt, Zanele Khumalo, will serve as regent, ensuring continuity and guidance.
The tragic passing of Chief Mabhikwa in May 2022, at just 28, following a road accident, left a void in the community. Initially, John Khumalo stepped in as acting Chief, a temporary measure while the family considered the future.
Earlier this year, the family’s choice of Chief Mabhikwa’s eldest son was put forward to the Matabeleland North Provincial Council of Chiefs, a significant step in the formal process. This nomination then progressed to the National Council of Chiefs, culminating in President Mnangagwa’s official endorsement.
Alongside the young heir, Zanele (35) was entrusted with the role of regent. Her appointment, effective mid-January, marks a crucial period of stewardship, as she prepares the young chief for his future responsibilities. Saturday Chronicle spoke with her, capturing the moment as she embraced this significant undertaking.
“I’m the eldest child of the late Chief Mabhikwa (Nicholas Khumalo), and the late Chief (Vusumuzi) was my younger brother. I have been appointed regent chief to stand in for Vusumuzi’s son, who has been appointed Chief Mabhikwa. Vusumuzi had three children, and his eldest, who is nearly nine, has been chosen as the chief. As the new chief’s aunt, the family deemed it appropriate to select me as regent chief,” said the regent chief.
Her appointment necessitated her leaving her employment in South Africa to serve in this traditional role.
Regent Chief Mabhikwa acknowledged that her appointment is not without its challenges and has generated mixed reactions within the community.
“This is not going to be easy. I will be working with a diverse group, unlike before when I was focused solely on my own affairs. I will do my best, but I am aware of the challenges. Most community members are happy about my appointment, although some remain sceptical. This is the first time in our clan’s history that a female chief or regent chief has been appointed.
“I understand that some people may doubt a woman’s leadership, as they are accustomed to male leaders. However, I am confident that I will fulfil my role effectively. I am very pleased that we already have female chiefs in the country. This will be helpful as I perform my duties in a male-dominated sector. The presence of female chiefs proves that we are capable of leading.”
She stressed that while she will lead the entire community, women’s issues are particularly close to her heart. Regent Chief Mabhikwa stated that most women require support through empowerment projects, as they are the backbone of many families.
“I want to address unemployment and contribute to our community’s development. We will soon be conducting Gukurahundi hearings, which is a sensitive topic, and we hope the hearings will not lead to divisions. We still have few female traditional leaders in lower structures, such as village heads, and we hope to increase their numbers,” said Regent Chief Mabhikwa.
She revealed that while her younger brother’s tenure was brief, he laid a developmental foundation for the area, and she intends to continue on the same path.
Regent Chief Mabhikwa also highlighted the community’s water challenges and pledged to use her position to lobby for the provision of this essential resource.
Matabeleland North Provincial Council of Chiefs chairperson, Chief Siansali, confirmed that Khumalo’s appointment aligns with established practices.
“This is not a new practice in our institution. We have had a regent for Chief Dakamela, who was also an aunt. So, this is within the bounds of established practice,” said Chief Siansali.
He clarified that the traditional leadership institution was simply adhering to the family’s wishes.
“Indeed, the family nominates the successor to the Chief Mabhikwa throne. The necessary paperwork has been processed through the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs and subsequently to the National Council of Chiefs. The President has appointed the next Chief Mabhikwa, who is the son of the late Chief Mabhikwa (Vusumuzi Khumalo),” he said.
“The nine-year-old son is the appointed successor Chief Mabhikwa. Unfortunately, due to his age, he cannot assume office until he is 18 years or older.”
Chief Siansali confirmed that Khumalo will serve as regent for the coming years.
