Government Seeks Chiefs’ Input On Traditional Leaders Act Amendments

The Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Albert Mavunga, has engaged National Council of Chiefs President Chief Mtshane Khumalo on the welfare of traditional leaders and proposed amendments to the Traditional Leaders Act.

During a courtesy call at Chief Khumalo’s homestead, Deputy Minister Mavunga conveyed greetings from President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, while acknowledging the chief’s contribution to traditional leadership in Zimbabwe.

The Deputy Minister said traditional leaders remained important pillars of the country’s governance system, particularly in preserving cultural heritage, resolving disputes and promoting development in communities.

“Our traditional leaders remain an integral part of our governance system. They are custodians of our culture, heritage and customary values, while also playing an important role in maintaining peace, resolving disputes and supporting development within our communities,” said Deputy Minister Mavunga.

The welfare of traditional leaders was among the key issues discussed during the engagement, with the Deputy Minister emphasising the need to improve their working conditions and provide adequate institutional support.

“One of the matters close to our hearts as a ministry is the welfare of our traditional leaders,” he said.

“We recognise that chiefs, headmen and village heads carry considerable responsibilities. For them to discharge these duties effectively, it is important that we continuously examine their conditions of service, operational requirements and the institutional support available to them.”

Hon. Mavunga said the Ministry was interested in hearing directly from traditional leaders about their most pressing needs and identifying practical measures that could be implemented jointly with the National Council of Chiefs.

“I am therefore particularly interested in hearing your views on the welfare priorities of traditional leaders and the practical measures that the government and the council can pursue together,” the deputy minister said.

The proposed amendments to the Traditional Leaders Act also featured prominently during the meeting.

The Deputy Minister said the legislative review provided an opportunity to ensure that the law was consistent with the Constitution and that the responsibilities of institutions involved in traditional leadership were clearly defined.

“We are also giving attention to the amendment of the Traditional Leaders Act,” he said.

“This legislative process presents an important opportunity to align the law with the Constitution, clarify institutional responsibilities and strengthen the framework governing traditional leadership.”

The deputy minister stressed that traditional leaders should have a voice in shaping the proposed changes, noting that their experience was essential in identifying areas requiring reform.

“It is essential that the perspectives of traditional leaders themselves are properly considered in this process,” Hon. Mavunga said.

“As President of the National Council of Chiefs, your views and those of your colleagues are particularly important in helping us identify the provisions requiring attention and the reforms that will best serve the institution.”

The engagement was also aimed at strengthening cooperation between the Ministry and the National Council of Chiefs on matters affecting traditional leadership.

“My visit today is therefore not only an expression of respect but also an opportunity to listen, consult and strengthen our working relationship,” the Deputy Minister said.

The deputy minister said continued engagement with traditional leaders would help the government better understand their concerns and develop measures to strengthen their role in community governance and development.

“I look forward to your guidance on these matters and to continued cooperation between the Ministry and the National Council of Chiefs,” he said.

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of consultation between the government and traditional leadership as discussions on the welfare of chiefs and amendments to the governing legislation continue.