*Hon Garwe urges Chiefs to uphold cultural heritage* 15 May 2025 _Story by Jeremiah Gora_ The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe, has emphasized that traditional leaders have a significant role to play in upholding and preserving the country's rich cultural heritage. He made these remarks during the installation ceremony of Cde Vernon Muringani as Chief Maromo, which took place yesterday at Makumimavi Primary School in Chivhu. "Our chiefs have a critical role to play in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage, and it is their responsibility to safeguard the values and traditions that make us who we are. "Today, we gather to install Cde Vernon Muringani as Chief Maromo, just a few days after the successful installation of Chiefs Nyakuchena and Kareya, and this brings more chiefs to the esteemed body of traditional leaders in Mashonaland East, further strengthening our cultural institutions," said Hon Daniel Garwe. He further highlighted that the government is working tirelessly to restore all chieftainships that were abolished or disrupted by the colonial regime, as part of efforts to reclaim and preserve the country's rich cultural heritage. Hon Garwe emphasized that chiefs have a responsibility to ensure their subjects adhere to the laws of the country, striking a balance between cultural traditions and national obligations. "President of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. E.D Mnangagwa, has made it clear that our nation stands firmly against early child marriages and gender-based violence, and as chiefs, it is your duty to ensure that those who violate these principles are brought to justice. "The chief's court is a recognized institution in our country, and as traditional leaders, you have a critical role to play in dispute resolution and administration of justice at the community level. "We have witnessed rampant deforestation in some areas, and it is your duty as chiefs to ensure that our natural resources are preserved for future generations. I urge you to take a leading role in environmental conservation," said Hon Garwe. The Minister of Health and Child Welfare, Hon Douglas Mombeshora, who was also Acting Chief Maromo, delivered a keynote address narrating the rich history of the Chikonamombe chieftainship during the installation ceremony. "We extend our profound gratitude to the government, particularly the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, for restoring the Chikonamombe chieftainship, thereby correcting a historical injustice that was perpetrated by the colonial regime. We now look forward to the restoration of areas that were unjustly taken from us, such as Marondamashanu and Rare," said Hon Mombeshora. The President of the Chiefs Council, Senator Chief Khumalo, congratulated Chief Maromo on his installation and officially welcomed him to the esteemed body of traditional leaders. "I would like to extend a warm welcome to Chief Maromo, joining the ranks of our esteemed traditional leaders. Notably, Chief Maromo is a young chief, joining the ranks of other youthful leaders like Chief Nyakuchena, and I believe this new generation of leaders will shape the future of our institution," said Senator Chief Khumalo. Despite the chilly weather conditions, the installation ceremony of Chief Maromo drew a large and enthusiastic crowd, demonstrating the significance of the occasion and the community's support for their newly installed chief. The ceremony was graced by the presence of several government ministers, including Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon Felix Mhona, Minister of ICT, Hon Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of Health and Child Care, Hon Douglas Mombeshora, and Deputy Minister of Local Government, Hon Alfred Mavhunga, Minister of State for Mashonaland East, Hon Itayi Ndudzo. The occasion was also honored by the presence of several chiefs, led by Senator Chief Khumalo, who joined the community in celebrating the installation of Chief Maromo. Chief Maromo was Chikomba DCC Chairman before taking his new role. https://chat.whatsapp.com/CQ3v0guBSmd0G4HaBxc69y