The Wait Is Over, Minister Garwe Finally Visits Makoni.

By Shingirai Vambe

Rusape-Following numerous visits to the President and meetings, the wait for Minister of Local Government, Daniel Garwe has finally ended with his visit to Rusape, where the boundary dispute has been long standing awaiting his visit for the official announcement of the Government Gazatte.

Garwe was instructed by the President to officially visit the district and announce the Gazette on a longstanding dispute between five Chiefs in Makoni District, Rusape, it has taken a significant turn with the intervention of the dispute, which has been ongoing for some time, centers around the boundaries and leadership of the district, with each Chief vying for dominance.

Minister Garwe’s visit to the District Council Chambers, Thursday June 12 2025, was a crucial step in resolving the dispute. Flanked by Government Heads of Departments in Makoni District, Garwe formally announced the gazette already signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which outlines the boundaries between Chief Makoni, Chief Cogan Gwasira, Chief Chipunza, Chief Chiduku, Chief Tandi, and Chief Chikore.

The dispute has its roots in historical claims, with Chief Makoni asserting that the district belongs to his forefathers and that he should be the paramount chief. However, this claim has been met with resistance from the other Chiefs, who describe it as a colonial mentality perpetuated by the white regime before independence.

Chief Makoni had earlier stated that his forefathers had given other chiefs a mandate to rule and that it was upon him to appoint his representatives of choice. He highlighted the shortcomings and differences between the Chiefs and their belonging, separating it from his ancestral background.

*Chief Chiduku, pictured during the welcome ceremony. By Shingirai Vambe*

The other Chiefs, however, have declined to recognize Chief Makoni’s claim to paramountcy, citing the need for equality and respect for each chief’s autonomy. The dispute has caused tension in the district, with the Chiefs struggling to work together.

Minister Garwe’s intervention aims to bring clarity and resolution to the dispute. By formally announcing the gazette signed by President Mnangagwa, the minister hopes to provide a clear framework for the chiefs to work within. The gazette outlines the boundaries between the chiefs’ areas, providing a basis for cooperation and collaboration.

The outcome of Minister Garwe’s intervention remains to be seen, but it is clear that the dispute has significant implications for the district and its people. As the Chiefs navigate this complex issue, it is essential that they prioritize the needs and well-being of their communities.

The visit was met with resistance and celebration as villagers from all the parts of the district descended to the council offices, calling the aid of the Zimbabwe Republic Police to restore order. The Chiefs were orders to enter with only five of their representatives.

The Chiefs and the Local Government staff will this Monday visit the district and areas where they need to address the ongoing boundary dispute with Chief Makoni.

Meanwhile, the minister is expected to address power wrangle at Makoni rural District Council after the dismissal of Chairman, Guy Mutasa and long serving CEO, Edward Pise. the local authority has since employed Engineer Edmore Chidembo as the new CEO while Ellah Hlanguyo remain the acting Chairman even after the lapse of 90days as prescribed by the Urban and Rural Councils Act.