Antony Chawagarira
The Chairman of the Manicaland Provincial Chiefs Council, Senator Chief Mapungwana, born Anias Mapungwana, has died after collapsing during Independence Day celebrations held in Maphisa on Saturday.
Acting Director of Local Government Services for Manicaland, John Misi, confirmed the death of the veteran traditional leader, saying he was rushed to hospital after suddenly collapsing during the national event.Chief Mapungwana was immediately attended to before being airlifted to United Bulawayo Hospitals where he later succumbed to his condition this afternoon.“Yes, we can confirm the passing of Chief Mapungwana this afternoon. Further details will be released in due course,” said Misi.
Sources said the traditional leader had joined other dignitaries and community members at the Independence Day commemorations when he reportedly collapsed, sending shockwaves among attendees.
Chief Mapungwana was a respected traditional leader who served as chairman of the Manicaland Provincial Chiefs Council and also held the position of Senator in the National Assembly, where he represented the interests of traditional leaders.
His death is expected to leave a significant gap within the traditional leadership structures in Manicaland Province, where he played a key role in cultural preservation, community leadership and rural development initiatives.
Mourners and fellow traditional leaders are expected to gather in the coming days as Government and traditional leadership structures prepare to release official funeral and burial arrangements.
