By Violet Mashonga
ZVIMBA – September 28, 2024 — In a powerful demonstration of cultural pride and community unity, Headman Katizagombo hosted a landmark cultural event at his homestead in Zvimba, drawing more than 2,000 young people from across the region. Themed “Promotion and Preservation of Our Cultural Heritage for the Next Generation,” the event aimed to reconnect the youth with Zimbabwe’s traditions, while steering them away from the growing threats of drug and substance abuse.
Headman Katizagombo addressed attendees with a passionate call to action, urging young people to embrace traditional values, including modest dressing, community responsibility, and farming. “This program is not just about remembering the past,” he said, “but about guiding our youth toward a responsible and productive future.”
The day featured hands-on activities including traditional Nhanga/Gota teachings, cattle herding, the preparation of cultural dishes such as mancuchu (rice), and other household responsibilities. These lessons, the Headman said, serve as tools to instill discipline, respect, and cultural identity.
Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Marian Chombo, Permanent Secretary Josephat Jaji praised the initiative and conveyed gratitude to Her Excellency Auxillia Mnangagwa, who spearheaded the program. The Minister’s message highlighted the urgent need to combat drug abuse, which she linked to early marriages, mental health struggles, and premature death. “Our culture offers a path to stability,” she said, urging the youth to take pride in their heritage and stay focused on their personal growth.
District Development Coordinator (DDC) Manyurapasi welcomed guests and commended Headman Katizagombo for his leadership and hospitality. He described the Headman as a role model for other traditional leaders, citing his unwavering dedication to community development.
The event forms part of a broader campaign by the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture to promote cultural preservation through traditional leadership structures. Acting Provincial Head Tarisai Gusho met with the Headman prior to the event to emphasize the importance of following proper cultural protocols and maintaining the integrity of heritage preservation.
“This is not just an event,” Gusho remarked, “but a movement—one that reminds us that our culture is not behind us, but beneath our feet, guiding our future.”
As communities across Zimbabwe look for solutions to the challenges facing their youth, initiatives like this signal a growing recognition that cultural roots can offer both protection and purpose. With continued collaboration between government, traditional leaders, and families, Zimbabwe’s cultural legacy remains not only preserved—but powerfully alive.
