Thousands gather to mourn revered Chief in Jambezi

Victor Sibanda

A pall of grief descended upon Jambezi Sports Grounds as thousands thronged to pay their last respects to the late Chief Shana III, who succumbed to illness last week. The outpouring of sorrow underscored the immense respect the chief commanded not only in Jambezi but across Matabeleland North.

Chief Siansali of Binga, who chairs the provincial chiefs’ council, described Chief Shana as a selfless leader brimming with wisdom and a staunch advocate for traditional leadership principles. “He was a humble yet firm leader,” Chief Siansali said. “We looked up to him as a source of guidance, a true elder statesman. He embraced people of all tribes and faiths, and at the time of his passing, he was the third most senior chief in Matabeleland North. I have lost a great teacher.”

Deputy President of the Chiefs’ Council, Chief Fortune Charumbira, who represented President Chief Mtshane Khumalo, lauded Chief Shana as a model of traditional leadership. “He embodied all the qualities of a true chief,” Chief Charumbira said. “We affectionately called him Pastor Shana because of his powerful prayers. He always prayed in Nambya (the local language). When disagreements arose among chiefs and in governance issues, Chief Shana remained steadfast, always spoke the truth. I recall a meeting in Bulawayo where he boldly challenged the late Politburo Minister Manyika over people who were leaving the party, reminding him that the slogan ‘simba kuvanhu’ (power to the people) had backfired.” Chief Charumbira’s remark elicited ripples of laughter from the mourners, highlighting Chief Shana’s unique blend of assertiveness and open-mindedness.

“He wasn’t afraid to seek counsel when necessary, always prioritizing justice,” Chief Charumbira continued. “Chief Shana was a leader who listened to all voices.” He went on to credit the late chief for championing improved living conditions for traditional leaders, including securing monthly salaries for village heads and spearheading initiatives like electrification and improved housing for chiefs.

“His wife,” Chief Charumbira remarked, “was a pillar of strength throughout his journey. In the political realm, Chief Shana would have undoubtedly been declared a national hero.”

Adding another dimension to the tapestry of Chief Shana’s life, Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda, a former schoolmate of the chief’s, revealed their shared history at St. Mary’s Primary School in 1958. “He exhibited leadership qualities even then,” Advocate Mudenda said. “Little did I know, when I inaugurated him as chief here in 1984, that I would be back at this very venue to bid him farewell. Chief Shana was a collaborator during the liberation struggle, and he played a pivotal role in nurturing future political leaders like Dr. Obert Mpofu. This exemplifies the contribution of traditional leaders to our nation’s independence. We must accord our chiefs the respect they deserve.” Advocate Mudenda further commended Chief Shana’s ability to bridge tribal divides, highlighting his multilingual skills.

The ceremony also saw a call for unity within the Shana family from Advocate Mudenda. “We have witnessed the strife surrounding the Mvuthu chieftainship,” he said. “I urge the Shana family to follow cultural protocols and appoint a successor without disputes. Such conflicts can sow discord.”

The somber event drew a significant number of local chiefs, including Chief Mukuni from neighboring Zambia, who however, remained in his car in accordance with tradition. Chief Shana III’s legacy will undoubtedly endure, remembered as a leader who championed tradition, justice, and unity throughout his life.