Chiefs Council President Calls for Modern, Inclusive Legislation to Strengthen Traditional Leadership

By Edward Makuzva

The President of the National Chiefs Council, Chief Mtshane Khumalo has called for a modern, clearly defined, and community-centred legislative framework to guide traditional leadership in Zimbabwe one that upholds cultural heritage while aligning with the country’s developmental priorities.

Speaking at a high-level workshop convened to refine the Traditional Leaders Bill, the Chiefs Council President expressed appreciation to the Government for facilitating a platform that brings together policymakers, traditional leaders, and legal experts to shape the future of the institution.

“This workshop underscores our collective commitment to strengthening the legislative framework that governs traditional leadership in Zimbabwe,” he said. “It represents a significant step in modernising our legal instruments while safeguarding the customs and values that define our identity.”

He emphasized that traditional leaders remain a central and enduring pillar of community governance, playing critical roles that stretch beyond cultural stewardship.

From mediating disputes and preserving unity to complementing government development programmes, chiefs operate at the closest point to citizens.

“Our communities look to us for guidance, stability, and unity,” he noted. “It is therefore paramount that the rule of law not only recognises these roles but empowers us to execute them efficiently and ethically.”

Aligning Tradition With a New Development EraZimbabwe is currently implementing transformative national programmes driven by devolution, rural re-industrialization, environmental conservation, and community empowerment.

The Chiefs Council President asserted that the role of traditional leaders is woven into each of these priorities.“

Whether in local development planning, conservation initiatives, disaster response or community mobilisation, the institution of traditional leadership remains a consistent and reliable pillar,” Chief Khumalo explained. “The bill must therefore strengthen our ability to support government in achieving its developmental vision.”

He added that strengthening administrative support, logistics, accountability systems, and coordination structures is critical if traditional leaders are to deliver effectively.

Key Reform Areas Identified

The deliberations identified several areas requiring attention in the bill:Clear definition of roles, mandates, and jurisdiction.

Strengthened administrative and financial support systems

Enhanced accountability and ethical governance

Modernised and credible dispute-resolution structures.

Legislative protection of customs, culture, and heritage

Improved collaboration between traditional authorities and state institutions

he Chief Council President stressed that the legislation must be consultative, inclusive, and reflective of the lived realities of chiefs and their communities.

“Our collective wisdom, anchored in lived experience, will ensure that the final document is progressive yet grounded in reality,” he added. “Only through open dialogue and collective ownership can we produce legislation that truly serves our people.”

A Future-Focused Council

The Chiefs Council President reiterated its commitment to working closely with Government, legal practitioners, and technical experts to ensure the final draft protects the dignity of the institution and strengthens its effectiveness.

“We are confident that, by the end of this process, we will have a harmonized and well-considered bill that responds to community needs, respects our traditions, and aligns with national aspirations,” he said.

In Closing the Chief Council President reminding participants that the decisions taken today will reverberate for generations to come.“

The outcome of these deliberations will shape the future of traditional leadership in Zimbabwe.

Let us approach this task with unity, purpose, and clarity of vision,” he concluded.