Mnangagwa opens 2025 Chief's Conference

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on traditional leaders to uphold fairness, impartiality and the protection of Zimbabwe's national image, stressing their central role in maintaining peace, justice delivery and cultural heritage across communities.

Speaking in Harare on Wednesday during the official opening of the 2025 Annual National Chiefs' Conference, the President said traditional leaders remain fundamental to the country's governance architecture and national identity.

"My Government will remain closely intertwined with the Traditional Leaders. And for that, we make no apologies," he said. "The Traditional Leaders and communities supported the armed struggle for our liberation. Now under a free and independent Zimbabwe, this relationship will continue to thrive. Let no one disturb this intricate connection."

Mnangagwa urged chiefs to remain custodians of national dignity, particularly in the delivery of community-level justice, which he said must be rooted in impartiality, honesty and respect for cultural values.

"In undertaking this important role in our nation's governance architecture, I implore you, our Chiefs, to remain guided by the values that underpin fair and impartial justice delivery. Take into consideration the need to protect our national image and the respect of our identity, dignity, and cultural values."

The Head of State said the gathering provided an opportunity for traditional leaders to assess progress in national development, especially in rural areas where they oversee key economic and administrative structures.

"We have yet another opportunity to reflect on matters affecting our rural communities," he said. "The insights and perspectives we share during this annual gathering should drive our country forward."

Mnangagwa commended chiefs for their contributions to agricultural production and other community development programmes, noting progress in Pfumvudza/Intwasa, winter wheat production, livestock and fisheries, village business units and horticulture initiatives.

"The total harvests, household incomes and quality of livelihoods of our communities continue to improve," he said.

On natural resource management, the President challenged traditional leaders to ensure mining and investment activities are conducted responsibly, sustainably and with community oversight.

"You, our esteemed Chiefs, are the custodians of the land, environment, as well as natural resources," he said. "Your communities, women and the youth should enjoy the benefits, economic and social value of our God-given natural resources."

Mnangagwa also highlighted significant national infrastructure investments, including energy, roads, water systems and ICT, saying progress was being made on both highway and rural road networks.

He further reminded chiefs of their expanded responsibilities, which now include officiating marriages and facilitating birth and death registrations - duties he said must be carried out with professionalism and integrity.

Turning to social concerns, Mnangagwa urged traditional leaders to unite in fighting drug and substance abuse as well as gender-based violence, which he described as threats to the moral fabric of society. He also encouraged the promotion of indigenous foods and traditional nutrition as part of cultural preservation.

"Our nation cannot afford to suffer from the scourge of drug and substance abuse, as well as Gender Based Violence," he said. "Let us all work together under the Whole of Government and Society Approach in the fight against these and other negative social vices."

The conference continues, with traditional leaders expected to deliberate on development, governance, resource management and social welfare issues affecting communities across the country.