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Fungai Lupande Mash Central Bureau
CHIEFS have been advised not to let customary requirements for new companies hinder development in line with the “Zimbabwe is open for business” mantra, Minister of State for Mashonaland Central Provincial Affairs, Cde Monica Mavhunga has said.

Speaking at the installation of the 12th Chief Kandeya (Petros Kandamuviri) last week at Kandeya Secondary School, Minister Mavhunga said traditional leaders were the drivers of rural development and the Government was committed to enhancing their mobility.

“Traditional leaders are at the centre of community development. In line with the ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’ mantra, I call upon you to ensure that your local authority operates along those lines. Don’t let the customary requirements for new companies hinder development. Operate within the confined tradition and customs,” said Cde Mavhunga.

“The Kandeya Chieftainship is one of the oldest in the country and they are said to be direct descendants of the Munhumutapa Empire, popularly known as the second Mutapa state. Ruins found at Pfura and Tsakare Mountains are similar to those at Great Zimbabwe.

“The office of Chief Kandeya fell vacant on October 16, 2012 following the death of the incumbent Zabron Mawanda from the Bavamhava house. Chakoneka Purazi of the Kakomwe house was then nominated to the be 15th Chief Kandeya, but he decided to forego his turn in favour of his young bother Petros due to old age and ill-health.

“Unfortunately Purazi passed away soon after the nomination process. There are some people among the Kandeya Clan who were contesting the nomination.” The Kandeya people are of the Tembo Mazvimbakupa totem and they originated from Malawi, moved through Zambia and entered Zimbabwe through the Eastern Highlands.

Born on February 19, 1951, Chief Kandeya attended Tsengurwe School up to Standard Two. He is married and blessed with 13 children. The chieftainship rotates between the Bavamhava and Nyongonhete houses.