Chief consults healer after suspected witchcraft confession in Mount Darwin

Sekuru Nyangatayani conducting a spiritual test at his shrine

MOUNT DARWIN — Chief Nyamaropa of Mount Darwin turned to Glendale‑based traditional healer Sekuru Nyangatayani after members of the Chipamuriwo clan sought clarity over alleged spiritual torment within the family, local sources said.

Clan members visited Sekuru Nyangatayani’s shrine on Monday for a cleansing ritual intended to identify the source of the alleged witchcraft. As part of the process, the healer reportedly administered traditional medicines and instructed everyone present to undergo a cleansing test. One elder was identified during the ritual and later confessed to being the source of the family’s misfortunes.

“This is my second time being labelled a wizard. It is not something that I sought, but it is spiritual. Sekuru Nyangatayani, please help me I no longer want these things,” the man pleaded, according to witnesses.

Sekuru Nyangatayani told the family the matter was spiritual in nature and urged them not to respond with hostility toward the accused.

“It is pathetic that goblins are tormenting the clan and you are using them, but it is not your fault. The family should not attack you because this is spiritual. If you all agree, I will help you destroy the evil spirits,” he said.

Chief Nyamaropa’s advisor, who attended the session, thanked the healer for helping the clan reach a verdict and said the public ritual allowed everyone to witness the process and the suspect’s admission.

Local observers said the use of traditional rituals to resolve suspected witchcraft cases remains common in rural areas and can help restore social harmony when handled peacefully. At the same time, such accusations can inflame tensions and risk vigilante reprisals if not managed carefully by community leaders and, where appropriate, formal authorities.

Community leaders at the session urged restraint and emphasised that spiritual findings should not justify violence. The healer’s public approach and the chief’s involvement were presented as steps to ensure transparency and to avoid extra‑judicial action.

Mount Darwin witchcraft confession 2026