Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
STUDENTS from the Zimbabwe National Defence University (ZNDU) yesterday toured Chief Mutasa’s community court, gaining first-hand insight into the traditional justice system and its role in resolving disputes in communities.
The delegation, which included senior directing staff from China and Pakistan and military officers from China, Pakistan, Zambia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana and Nigeria, observed court proceedings as litigants’ cases were heard and resolved.
The students later attended Chief Mutasa’s Bingaguru Cultural Festival, where the Mutasa clan celebrated its cultural heritage through traditional artefacts, dance, music, poetry and food.
Head of delegation, Air Commodore Elisha Farai Masakadza said the visit provided valuable lessons on the continued relevance of traditional justice systems and the contribution of traditional leaders to national security.
“This visit is important because from our side we are looking at the culture and traditional legal systems, which is one area we are attending to during this study tour. We want to know from national security point of view how the Chiefs and their village heads support us in the defence of the nation,” he said.
Air Commodore Masakadza said modern national security extended beyond military matters to include health, education, food security and culture. He added that cordial relations between traditional leaders and their communities were important for maintaining national security and advancing Vision 2030.
The delegation also toured Tanganda Tea Factory, Forbes Border Post and the Chiadzwa diamond fields.
Chief Senator Mutasa urged communities to preserve their cultural heritage, respect traditional beliefs and protect sacred sites.
“We cannot allow our culture and traditions to be eroded. Let us jealously guard and protect our heritage,” he said, while condemning domestic violence and drug and substance abuse.
He also urged couples facing marital challenges to seek counselling from community elders.
Chief Mutasa encouraged young girls to prioritise education and shun early marriages, saying child marriage was not part of their culture.
