Godwin Gumbo

Mazwaligwe, Bulilima – Born Winner Moyo, Headman Mazwaligwe under Chief Masendu, was installed in a colourful ceremony on 9th October 2024. He was appointed to succeed his father, the late Pilot Moyo, who passed on in 2019.

The History of Headman Mazwaligwe dates back to the mid century, 1953 when Chief Masendu was dethroned to Headman Masendu and Mazwaligwe was a village head and was later elevated to headman Mazwaligwe upon recommendations from Chief Masendu in 2013. In a colorful ceremony to celebrate his installation, stakeholders from Bulilima District, government departments and development partners, and chiefs were present to witness the occasion.

Speaking during the occasion, The guest of honour Chief Masendu said, “The Mazwaligwe is relatively new, the first being Pilot Moyo who was installed in 2013. I am sure the new headman will work well with his community. He must lead with diligence in preserving his father’s legacy who was appointed on merit”

Chief Masendu further urged Headman Mazwaligwe to anchor development in his community working together with development agents.

In a speech read on behalf of Member of Parliament for Bulilima Hon. Dingumuzi Phuthi, Mrs Dube delivered a hearty congratulatory message for the incumbent Headman, whom he urged to simultaneously promote economic and cultural development in the Masendu ward. He further added that the installation of Headman Mazwaligwe was part of a broader mission to re-establish previously unrecognized traditional jurisdictions.

While the Masendu area has a multi-purpose cultural center, its ineffective use has exposed a lack of effort in the promotion and preservation of such places as the custodians of traditions and culture. The newly installed headman took time to speak with this news crew about his set goals as the headman.

There has been a collective outcry over the continued eroding of cultural values and norms in Zimbabwean communities as chiefs, headmen, and their subordinates have turned a blind eye to the problem.

Some of the dignitaries who graced the occasion include the DDC for Bulilima Mr O.Zogara, CEO Bulilima Rural District Council, Mr B. Mlauzi, Chief Masendu, Chief Madlambuzi, Chief Mangubo, and representatives of non-governmental organisations.