By Delicious Mathuthu
Nkayi, Matabeleland North – Khulani Khumalo ascended to the throne as the new substantive Chief Madliwa in Nkayi’s Nesigwe area, Matabeleland North Province yesterday, June 9, 2025.
The ceremony was a grand affair attended by dignitaries, including Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon Albert Mavhunga.
Chief Madliwa succeeds the late Timothy Khumalo Madliwa, who passed away on July 3, 2018, after a 54-year reign that began in 1964 when he took over from his brother, Mr. Matshopo Khumalo.
During the ceremony, Hon. Mavhunga said it is important to respect traditional leaders and preserving cultural heritage.
Speaking during the ceremony, a family spokesperson called for unity in the chieftainship.
“I urge all of us to respect and support our new Chief. This should come from the joy we are experiencing today,” the spokesperson said.
The Chief’s Council says it played a pivotal role in facilitating the selection of Chief Madliwa, with extensive consultations conducted within the Khumalo family. L
Chief Mtshane Khumalo, president of the Chiefs’ Council, confirmed that the family made a unanimous decision.
“We held three separate meetings with family representatives, and they were unanimous in their choice of the rightful heir. We are therefore satisfied with the appointment of Chief Madliwa,” he said.
During the ceremony, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland North, Hon. Richard Moyo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting traditional leadership institutions.
“The Government of Zimbabwe is aligning the Traditional Leaders Act with the Constitution and is committed to ensuring that traditional leaders are appointed substantively.
“Chiefs are not just custodians of culture, but also vital players in local development,” Hon. Moyo said.
Born on April 27, 1974, the new Chief Madliwa is a married father of six, completed his primary and secondary education in Nkayi before working in Bulawayo and South Africa.
His chieftainship spans nine local authority wards, serving a population of approximately 36,000 people.
