Garwe calls for inclusion of Chiefs in Council meetings

Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has urged local authorities to allow chiefs to actively participate in council meetings, highlighting their crucial role in community governance and development.

Minister Garwe made the appeal recently during the installation ceremony of Mr. Austin Murwira as the substantive Chief Chihota in Marondera District.

Speaking at the event, Minister Garwe emphasised the vital position chiefs hold as custodians of culture and community welfare. "As guardians of culture, chiefs play a vital role in ensuring council decisions respect traditional values and practices," he said. "Their attendance and active participation in council meetings and relevant forums are crucial to safeguard the well-being of their communities."

He outlined the key responsibilities of chiefs, which include overseeing levy and tax collection through village heads, collaborating with development committees on local projects, and coordinating drought and famine relief efforts in partnership with District Development Coordinators and Rural District Councils. Chiefs are also expected to keep councils informed about homestead disposals, movement of inhabitants, new settler arrivals, and to promptly notify authorities about disease outbreaks, natural disasters, or other emergencies affecting their areas.

Minister Garwe appealed to Chief Chihota to exercise fairness and unity in his leadership. "Given the contentious nature of chieftainship succession, dissatisfaction among some claimants is inevitable. I therefore advise Chief Chihota to lead inclusively, avoiding personal revenge and instead focus on uniting the Chihota clan," he said. He called on the clan to support their new chief to ensure that the Chihota legacy continues to thrive in Zimbabwe's history.

In his remarks, Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Advocate Itayi Ndudzo commended the role of chiefs in community development. "Chief Chihota, your leadership will be instrumental in building a prosperous Mashonaland East Province and contributing to Vision 2030," he said. "Your role extends beyond tradition; it encompasses fostering development, nurturing community cohesion, and driving progress."

Advocate Ndudzo also praised the Chiefs Assembly for their role in recommending appointments and urged Minister Garwe to complete the formal appointment process for the remaining chiefs, starting with Chief Nyakuchena.

Chief Chihota's installation follows his official appointment by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in December last year, marking a new chapter in traditional leadership for Marondera District.