Mnangagwa says chiefs critical line of defence

President Mnangagwa has reaffirmed the central role of traditional leaders in safeguarding Zimbabwe's cultural identity, saying chiefs, headmen and village heads remain a vital defence against foreign influences disguised as modern practices.

Addressing the Annual National Chiefs Conference in Harare yesterday, the President said the Second Republic would maintain its close and strategic partnership with traditional leadership structures.

"Ndimi varidzi vevhu. Hurumende yandinotungamira icharamba ichitsigira kushanda kwedu pamwechete," he said, emphasising that the relationship between Government and traditional leaders was deeply rooted in the liberation struggle and would continue under an independent Zimbabwe.

"Our collective resolve saw us claim back the land of our forefathers, and realise independence, freedom and democracy," he added.

President Mnangagwa said traditional leaders—who include 310 chiefs, 550 headmen and 35 000 village heads—play an essential role in community development planning and managing key projects at village and ward level. He commended them for supporting the construction of schools, clinics, roads, bridges and infrastructure for small and medium enterprises.

He urged them to strengthen grassroots development structures such as village and ward assemblies, and development committees, to further accelerate national development.

Under Section 282 of the Constitution, traditional leaders are required to promote cultural values and sound family norms. The President praised chiefs for their ongoing efforts to preserve national heritage and identity.

Government has expanded the responsibilities of traditional leaders to include duties such as officiating marriages and facilitating birth and death registrations. President Mnangagwa said these reforms were intended to make essential services more accessible to rural communities.

"I am confident that you will undertake these new roles with uttermost professionalism and ethical conduct," he said, stressing that their roles in dispute resolution, justice delivery and peace-building remain indispensable.

He also urged chiefs to defend Zimbabwe's national image and uphold cultural dignity, warning that the country cannot afford to be weakened by drug and substance abuse or gender-based violence.

"Let us all work together under the Whole-of-Government and Society Approach in the fight against these and other negative social vices," he said.

The conference also saw the President handing over brand new Isuzu twin-cab vehicles to chiefs as part of efforts to support their work in communities.