VILLAGERS of Godlwayo in Filabusi, Matabeleland South province, have designated May 18 as the annual commemoration day for the installation of their revered leader, Chief Dambisamahubo Mafu.
The villagers celebrated the installation of their chief last Saturday in Nhlangano village, Godlwayo, and resolved to hold the commemorations annually.
The event, which was held at Nhlangano Chief Maduna Hall in ward 9, was attended by over 600 people.
Chief Mafu, who before his installation was the acting chief for the Godlwayo community, was installed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on April 15 last year.
This followed the death of his father Chief Vezi Maduna Mafu in February 2021.
In an interview with Southern Eye, event facilitator and ward 9 village head Calven Ncube said the community was proud of the area’s rich history, adding that the commemorations would help to revive their culture and traditions.
“On April 23 this year, we discussed with the chief about commemorating his installation day and he suggested that we do it on May 18 this year, citing that it is the day he is comfortable with,” he said.
“We are still going to seek his full consent on this day because we have agreed on it with the organising team that is working together with me. The team comprises village heads from across Godlwayo.”
- Filabusi villagers celebrate chief’s installation
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Chief Mafu was the guest of honour at the event.
“Generally, and considering that it was the first time, attendance was very good, we did not anticipate this. We had poets and different cultural figures who also attended this event,” Ncube said.
“The rotational annual event will be held in different parts of Godlwayo. However, in certain circumstances, the chief will call for the event to be held at his Kingdom Culture Centre.”
Chief’s secretary for ward 9, Sikhathele Nsingo, underscored the importance of unity, adding that the initiative would go a long way in strengthening a sense of oneness among the Godlwayo community.
“We can certainly state that we love our chief because he supports us during good and bad times, which is why we call for this event to be remembered. Our goals are to uplift the Godlwayo culture and fortify our oneness,” Nsingo said.
Chief Mafu expressed gratitude to the organisers for honouring him.
“This event is a symbol of love. While challenges might always disturb us here and there, I respect the people of Godlwayo,” he said.
“They are, indeed, satisfied with their chief, which also brings happiness to me.”
