MARONDERA– Chiefs have an important role to play in promoting and holding cultural values that promote development and unity in their areas of jurisdiction.
The Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe said this at a recent installation ceremony of Jellas Rushwaya as the eighth substantive Chief Kareya at Chigara Primary School in Chivhu.
This followed Rushwaya’s appointment by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in December last year.
Garwe said: “In terms of the Traditional Leaders Act (Chapter 29:17), Chiefs are responsible for, among others, promoting and holding cultural values among members of communities under their jurisdiction, particularly the preservation of the extended family and promotion of traditional family life.
“The Chief is also to supervise his headmen and village heads in the performance of their duties, discharging any functions conferred upon him in terms of the customary Law and Local courts and has to ensure that communal land is allocated in accordance with Part III of the Communal Lands Act and that the requirements of any enactment in force for the use and occupation of communal or resettlement land are observed.
“He should prevent any unauthorised settlement or use of communal land. Nominating headmen for appointment in terms of this Act, has to approve nominations by headman of village heads for appointment in terms of this Act.”
The Local Government and Public Works Minister added that a Chief must ensure that land and its natural resources are used and exploited in terms of the law and in particular, controlling over grazing, cultivation, illegal settlement and the indiscriminate destruction of flora and fauna.
“A Chief has to adjudicate in, and resolve disputes relating to land in his area, has to ensure that all public property, including roads and bridges, telephone and electricity lines, dip tanks and animal health centres, clinics, churches, cattle sale pens, schools and related establishments are not damaged, destroyed or misused by the inhabitants or livestock. He or she also has to perform such other functions as may be prescribed or any as may be assigned to him in terms of any,” he said.
Deputy President of the National Council of Chiefs Senator Fortune Charumbira called upon Chief Kareya to work towards the development of Mashonaland East province.
He said: “The path ahead is a noble one and your leadership will be instrumental in building a prosperous community in this part of the province and at the same time, contribute to Vision 2030. Your role extends beyond tradition as it encompasses the vital duties of fostering development, nurturing community cohesion, and driving progress in your jurisdiction.”
