THE Midlands province joined the rest of the nation in commemorating Traditional Leaders’ Day this week, with the event at Chief Chireya’s homestead in Gokwe North marked by the distribution of farming inputs under the Zunde Ramambo/Isiphala Senkosi scheme.
Chief Chireya’s homestead was a hive of activity as hundreds gathered to honour the pivotal role played by traditional leaders in upholding cultural values, promoting unity, and driving development in communities.
Chief Ngungumbane applauded the initiative, saying the scheme strengthens chiefs’ ability to serve their people.
“We are excited by the continued support we are receiving from the members of the military establishment. The scheme is critical as it helps us to feed our communities. When people are fed, they become productive and this is what can help in building our nation,” Chief Ngungumbane noted.
“The programme helps us alleviate the plight of our subjects in times of need. When people face problems, they ordinarily go to their village heads, all the way to the chiefs. Such programmes help us to chip in when problems arise. By giving us inputs early, this also helps our subjects to come and help us till our land before they go to their own fields in line with tradition,” Chief Chireya added.
The military establishment, which is partnering with traditional leaders in observing the special day, says there is need for the capacitation of traditional leaders for meaningful development to take place.
“Our chiefs are the bridges for the past and the future. We are proud to be part of the Traditional Chiefs Day. In the past, chiefs used to have armies and today we are saying you are our chiefs. You look after the poor and ensure equitable distribution of resources. You preside over conflicts and ensure peace. You mould society,” Chief of Staff Quartermaster Staff, Major General Simo Maseko said.
The Zunde Ramambo concept, which honours traditional leaders, is a long-cherished concept that promotes community cohesion and food sustenance in communities in times of need.
