Minister Garwe presides over historic installation of Chief Chirumanzu

By Dumisani Ndlovu

MVUMA–The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Daniel Garwe, recently officially installed Mr. Abraham Nyamandi Marufu as the substantive Chief Chirumanzu.
The vibrant event, held at Gonawapotera Secondary School in Chaka, marked a new chapter for the chieftainship and defined Zimbabwe’s commitment to preserving its heritage and advancing Vision 2030.
The installation ceremony, which was steeped in cultural significance and heralded as a milestone for traditional leadership was attended by a host of national dignitaries, who celebrated the rich history of the Chirumanzu chieftainship, which Hon.
Honourable Garwe traced back to the early 19th century. He recounted the migration of the VaManyika people, led by their ancestor Mhepo, from Mutare. Mhepo, later dubbed Chirumuhanzu by the Varozwi for his introduction of cloth and tailoring, established a lineage whose clan totem is Shumba, with the ceremonial phrase “Mhazi Muranda” echoing through generations.
Mr. Abraham Nyamandi Marufu, born on June 6, 1960, steps into the revered role following the passing of the previous Chief, Mr. Gerald Mudzengi, in 2019. Mr. Marufu was nominated on his 64th birthday and formally appointed by the President on January 13, 2025.
In his address, Hon. Garwe lauded Chief Marufu as a respected father figure, a devoted Christian elder in the ZAOGA Forward in Faith church, and a patriotic citizen. Married to Molly Maboda and blessed with three children, the new Chief also carries a legacy of contribution to the liberation struggle, having served as a war collaborator between 1977 and 1980 alongside notable veterans.
Minister Garwe emphasized the dual role of traditional leaders as both custodians of culture and champions of development. He highlighted the extensive jurisdiction of Chief Chirumanzu, which encompasses 67 primary schools, 22 secondary schools, three referral hospitals (Mvuma, Muvonde, and Driefontein Sanatorium), 15 clinics, 48 dip tanks, a robust road network, and two major irrigation schemes (Mhende and Holly Cross Dam). Chief Chirumanzu will work closely with five Headmen—Chaka, Manhovo, Bangure, Mapiravana, and Chimbi—and 270 village heads to ensure inclusive governance and progress within the community.
In his speech, Hon. Garwe issued a strong call for unity and integrity, urging the Chirumanzu community to rally behind their new Chief. He implored Chief Marufu to transcend past disputes and lead with wisdom, transparency, and fairness. “Mr Abraham Nyamandi Marufu, I now appeal to you to work hard and rule the people wisely as your ancestors did… to build a prosperous future for Chirumanzu and Zimbabwe at large,” Hon. Garwe stated.
The day’s program was enriched with prayers, traditional rituals, and vibrant musical entertainment, alongside speeches from prominent figures including Hon. Owen Ncube, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution; Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs; Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and MP for Chirumanzu South; and Senator Chief Charumbira, Deputy President of the National Council of Chiefs.