Story by Yolanda Moyo
MS Zanele Khumalo was installed as Regent Chief Mabhikwa of the Mlonyeni Chieftaincy at the family homestead in Jotsholo, Lupane this Friday.
The introduction of the regent chief ceremony was held following the appointment of the nine-year-old, Wayne Makhosemvelo Khumalo as the substantive Chief in January by the government.
Chief Makhosemvelo Khumalo is the son of the late Chief Vusumuzi Khumalo who died in 2022 in a car accident, and until he comes of age to fully assume his duties, his aunt, Zanele Khumalo, will serve as regent, ensuring continuity and guidance.
Speaking during the installation, Chief Siansali, who represented the Matabeleland North Chief’s Council, urged members of the community to work hand in glove with the regent Chief as the government moves in to align the Traditional Leaders Act with the constitution.
“The Mlonyeni Chieftancy follows the Nguni tribe of having the eldest son take over at the age of 18. This is not the first time we have had this in the Matabeleland region, we have seen it in the Dakamela Chieftancy. The ministry is currently working towards the alignment of the Traditional Leaders Act in line with the constitution.
“Traditional leaders and their respective communities have various rights enshrined in the Constitution. As a Chief, you are therefore expected to safeguard and promote your Ndebele practices and values. As a ministry which administers the Traditional Leaders Act we encourage the promotion and safeguarding of Ndebele primogeniture custom of succession,” Chief Siansali said.
The installation of Regent Chief Mabhikwa represents a crucial period for the community, as they look forward to a future of continued tradition and leadership.
“The installation of Regent Chief Mabhikwa represents a crucial period for the community, as we look forward to a future of continued tradition and leadership. We are confident that she will guide us with wisdom and integrity, ensuring the preservation of our heritage and fostering development in our area,” a community member said.
“This day brings a sense of unity, and we have high hopes for the future of our community under the leadership of Regent Chief Mabhikwa. We are confident that having a female leader will bring more diversity and inclusion in our community,” another villager added.
A letter from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works indicates that Regent Chief Mabhikwa will lead for the next nine years.
