Ms. Silibaziso Mlotshwa Installed as Substantive C...

Ms. Silibaziso Mlotshwa Installed as Substantive Chief Mvuthu

Zim Now Writer

Ms. Silibaziso Mlotshwa has been installed as the substantive Chief Mvuthu of Hwange District in Matabeleland North Province. The appointment, effective May 16 this year, marks a significant milestone in the country's efforts to promote inclusive leadership and empower women.

The installation ceremony, which took place on Friday, was attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission. Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Albert Mavunga, emphasized the government's commitment to gender parity and inclusive leadership. "President Emmerson Mnangagwa is deliberate and intentional when it comes to the empowerment of young people and the empowerment of women," Mavunga said.

Chief Mvuthu, who takes over from her late father, Mr. Nyangayezizwe Mlotshwa, expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for supporting her appointment. "I would like to give credit to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for supporting me. We have been battling for 11 years until May this year, when I was officially appointed," she said. Chief Mvuthu becomes the seventh female chief in Zimbabwe and the first substantive female chief in Matabeleland North Province.

The Zimbabwe Gender Commission welcomed the appointment, noting that it aligns with the country's constitutional values. "We are happy, as the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, to witness this inauguration. It is a fulfillment of our Constitution, which promotes gender equality," said Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana. The National Chiefs' Council also echoed similar sentiments, with Senator Chief Mtshane Nkumalo urging the community to support Chief Mvuthu's leadership.Chief Mvuthu's appointment marks the end of a long-standing leadership vacuum in the Mvuthu chieftaincy, which had been without a substantive chief since her father's passing in 2014. Headman Bishop Matata Sibanda had served as Acting Chief during this period. With her installation, Chief Mvuthu is poised to contribute meaningfully to the development of Hwange District and serve as a role model for women and girls across the country.

The installation of Chief Mvuthu is a significant step towards promoting women's empowerment and inclusive leadership in Zimbabwe. As the country continues to strive for gender equality, Chief Mvuthu's appointment serves as a testament to the progress being made and the importance of supporting women in leadership positions.