Tsikamutanda divides families in Zaka

A dramatic tale of deception unfolded in the quiet hills of Zaka District, where a self-proclaimed Tsikamutanda (traditional healer and witch hunter) named Nehemiah Tamanikwa recently stirred both awe and suspicion among locals. His arrival in the Headman Dzoro area, armed with forged documents claiming affiliation with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (ZINATHA), quickly became a source of intrigue and concern.

Nehemiah, with his confident demeanor and promises of protection against evil forces, won the trust of Headman Jephta Ringirai. The headman, impressed by the healer's persuasive aura, validated his claims without hesitation. However, as Nehemiah's presence grew more established, whispers of doubt began to circulate among the community. Some villagers, skeptical of his sudden rise, started questioning the legitimacy of his practices and credentials.

Prosper Dohwai, ZINATHA's Masvingo provincial chairperson, confirmed the community's suspicions, revealing that Nehemiah was not registered with the association. "We do not have such a name in our database. He is not our member, so the certificates he presented are fake," Dohwai stated, effectively debunking Nehemiah's fraudulent claims.

Zaka South Ward 32 Councilor Togarepi Toruvanda also received inquiries regarding the healer, cautioning the public about potential imposters. "Villagers should beware of these fake Tsikamutandas. I have heard about them, but I think the best persons to comment on the matter are the traditional leaders," Toruvanda advised.

Despite the growing skepticism, Headman Ringirai remained steadfast in his support for Nehemiah, dismissing allegations of fraud. "It's true we have a Tsikamutanda here, and everything is well. Those claiming he is fake are simply trying to avoid scrutiny; they have their own agendas," he defended, further complicating the matter.

However, the unraveling of Nehemiah's deception came during an attempt to perform a healing ritual at his makeshift shrine. When the ceremony failed to produce any tangible results, the community's doubts quickly morphed into anger. The villagers, feeling betrayed, demanded accountability, eager to rid themselves of the false healer and restore the integrity of their traditional beliefs.

In the aftermath of the exposure, Nehemiah fled the area, leaving behind a trail of broken trust and confusion. Headman Ringirai's reputation was also tarnished, with the community questioning his judgment in validating a fraudulent healer.

Following the debacle, a villager filed a police report against Nehemiah, accusing him of falsely accusing community members of witchcraft. Nehemiah is now expected to appear before a magistrate in Jerera on March 10, 2025, where he will face charges for his deceptive activities.

ZINATHA's Prosper Dohwai has urged traditional leaders and villagers to exercise caution when welcoming outside healers into their communities, emphasizing the importance of verifying the authenticity of such individuals through proper channels. "Only our office can verify the authenticity of our members. I want to urge villagers and traditional leaders to first check the authenticity of these people who come to their areas without recommendation from our offices," Dohwai warned.

As the dust settles, the village of Headman Dzoro is left grappling with the consequences of deception and the fragility of trust in the traditional healing system.