Story by Courage Bushe
A renewed sense of optimism has taken hold in the Mapunzure community of Zvishavane after the installation of Chief Mapanzure as the substantive traditional leader this Wednesday.
Collen Chimhofu, who had served in an acting capacity for eight years, was formally confirmed at a ceremony marked by strong community participation and calls for accelerated development.
Local residents expressed confidence that the appointment will provide continuity and leadership on key socio-economic initiatives.
“We are a community that is in a massive development drive. The installation of the Chief will give us more power to continue with this development,” a community member said.
“As church leaders in the area, we are grateful to the Second Republic for finalising this chieftainship issue. It was long overdue, and we are ready to work with the new substantive chief,” local Church leaders said.
“We have been yearning for decisive leadership. Now that our substantive chief has been installed, we believe it is time for development,” a resident said.
The National Chiefs Council leadership highlighted the Second Republic’s firm belief in the role played by traditional leaders as custodians of culture and agents of development.
“Chiefs should remain the custodians of our culture. At the moment, the white community practices same sex marriage, which is taboo in our society. The traditional courts are enshrined in the constitution and are critical in promoting justice and peaceful co-existence. We want to urge them to play their roles diligently and ensure development,” Vice President National Chiefs Council, Chief Fortune Charumbira said.
Government values traditional leaders as they are catalysts of development.
“The government led by President Mnangagwa recognises the role and power of traditional leadership in the governance of the country. Traditional leadership protects the local resources and the environment, including land and forests. Chiefs have a role to promote peaceful co-existence,” Midlands Minister of State for Provincial affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube said.
“The appointment of Chief Mapanzure as a substance chief is a reflection of the able leadership of President Mnangagwa, who values the role of traditional leaders. Traditional leaders are catalysts of development. As a government, we have programmes that are lined up for our chiefs. These programmes will ensure that they execute their duties well,” Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe said.
As part of his conditions of service, Chief Mapanzure received an official vehicle. The installation signals a new chapter for Mapunzure, one underpinned by continuity, cultural stewardship and a strengthened platform for development.
