Masvingo villagers protest alleged US$10 levy by Chief Gutu

Chief Gutu (Lawrence Chigariro)

By Staff Reporter

Villagers in parts of Masvingo Province have erupted in protest after reports emerged that Chief Gutu (Lawrence Chigariro) ordered village heads under his jurisdiction to contribute US$10 each to a fund described as Zunde raMambo, a traditional communal grain or welfare initiative. The directive, conveyed by Headman Gadzingo at a meeting held at Runyowa Business Center, reportedly affects more than 100 village heads and could generate sums that critics say are being treated as the chief’s personal fund rather than community resources.

The move has provoked anger and concern because the collections appear unaccounted for and may be passed down to villagers in smaller increments, potentially increasing the financial burden on already cash‑strapped households. A village head who spoke on condition of anonymity warned that the cost will ultimately fall on ordinary families, with contributions likely collected in US$1 instalments that could multiply the total amount raised.

Chief Gutu defended the directive and rebuked journalists seeking details. “Yes, every village head is paying US$10. What business of yours is it? Do you know the function of Zunde raMambo?” he said, adding that inquiries were unwelcome. His response has done little to calm critics who view the levy as an unlawful imposition.

Legal experts have weighed in. Lawyer Martin Mureri described the collections as illegal, arguing that chiefs do not have the authority to tax villagers or to carry out development functions that fall within government's remit. “Chiefs should support development initiatives brought by the government,” he said, stressing the need for transparency and legal clarity.

Supporters of the chief offered a different perspective. Chief Chitanga, chairperson of the Masvingo Provincial Chiefs Assembly, suggested the funds may be intended to plug shortfalls in the Zunde raMambo programme amid a fertilizer crisis. He argued that US$10 is reasonable given rising input costs and noted that some headmen have been elevated to chieftainship, complicating jurisdictional lines.

The controversy highlights broader tensions over customary authority, accountability, and the blurred boundary between traditional leadership and public administration in rural Zimbabwe. Observers note that while Zunde raMambo has historical roots as a communal safety net, modern practice requires clear oversight to prevent misuse.

District officials, including Gutu District Development Coordinator Chiedza Tafireyi, did not respond to requests for comment. The dispute is expected to intensify as villagers press for clarity on whether contributions should remain voluntary or be regulated under law, and as civil‑society groups and legal practitioners consider possible avenues for redress.