The ManicaPost
Luthando Mapepa Chipinge Correspondent
CHIPINGE was plunged into deep mourning following the death of one of the most influential and workaholic traditional leaders – Chief Mutema – on Monday after a long battle with a kidney ailment.
Born Mr Philimon Sonai Mutema, the traditional leader died at West End Clinic in Harare.
He was 91.
He was buried in Mutema village yesterday.
Chief Mutema, a retired Mathematics teacher, was officially appointed Chief Mutema on October 12, 1995 while his official investiture took place at Ngaone Secondary School on July 19, 1996.
His chieftainship superintended over 15 of the 30 wards in the district.
He was survived by a wife, six children, 21 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A family member, Mr Nonokai Mutema, described the late traditional leader as unifier whose legacy will continue to be remembered.
“We have lost a pillar and father figure. It will not be the same without him and his legacy will forever remembered by the community and nation at large. We thank all stakeholders who chipped in during the time of his illness,” he said.
Chipinge district development coordinator Mr William Mashava described the late Chief Mutema as a great leader who played a major role in the development of the entire district.
“He was great leader who was very straightforward in his dealings and could not be swayed in his quest to develop the community. The Mutema chieftainship has a larger jurisdiction in the district and it will be as misnomer to mention development without mentioning his name. He will forever be remembered as a good, very articulate and eloquent leader,” said Mr Mashava.
