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Masvingo Bureau
A RECORD 1 200 Shangaan men and boys from Mwenezi and Chiredzi graduated at the weekend after undergoing circumcision and initiation as per the dictates of their culture. Now over a century old, this concept is being employed in the fight against HIV and Aids. This year’s graduation was one of the largest ever in terms of the numbers as the exercise did not take place last year owing to shortages of food to feed the initiates during the month-long camp.

Among those who were successfully circumcised and initiated at Mafula and Masikere camps at the weekend was Chief Chitanga, Mr Felani Chauke of Mwenezi.

Jubilant crowds, including women and the elderly cheered day-long celebrating the graduation ceremony which was held at Headman Galoni’s homestead after Government and donor organisations such as Population Services International chipped in with food.

Speaking in Chikokoko communal lands along the border between Mwenezi and Chiredzi districts at a ceremony to welcome those who had successfully undergone initiation, an ecstatic Chief Chitanga said he was happy to be born again.

Chief Chitanga said after being circumcised and initiated he was proud to be respected as a true Shangaan chief.