President Honors Traditional Chiefs

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, during the 45th Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day celebrations at Rufaro Stadium, underscored the significant role played by traditional leaders in promoting peace, unity, and socio-economic development across Zimbabwe.

In his address, the President acknowledged traditional leaders as key custodians of culture and essential partners in the country’s governance and community development frameworks.

“All of us have a role to play in building our motherland, Zimbabwe, including the Defence Forces and members of the Security Sector, as a whole,” President Mnangagwa said.

Traditional leaders were also praised for their ongoing efforts to mediate community disputes, preserve social cohesion, and support government programs at grassroots levels.

Their role in mobilizing communities towards development projects and in the administration of local justice remains invaluable.

The President highlighted government initiatives to strengthen collaboration with traditional leaders, ensuring their voices are heard in policy formulation and implementation.

This partnership is seen as critical in achieving the broader national goals outlined in Vision 2030.

In line with this, the Ministry of Defence and other government agencies continue to support infrastructure development in rural areas, where traditional leadership plays a pivotal role.

Projects such as the construction of traditional courts and community facilities have been facilitated with the help of the Defence Forces, reflecting a commitment to enhancing traditional governance structures.

“Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatirwa nevene vayo,” the President quoted, stressing that the country is built, governed, and blessed by its rightful custodians, the people and their traditional leaders.

The government’s recognition of traditional leaders comes amid ongoing efforts to promote national unity, peace, and inclusive development, reinforcing the respect for Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.