By Virginia Njovo
CHIVI – Jephias Chimhaka, a ZANU PF councilor who served as Ward 10 councillor in Chivi North for 43 years,potentially making him one of the longest-serving councillors in Zimbabwe’s history was finally gifted a Ford Ranger double cab on September 22, 2025, a vehicle he had first requested back in 2021 when his health deteriorated and he could no longer walk to serve his community effectively.
The 79-year-old, who served from 1980 until stepping down in 2023 due to severe swelling in his legs, received the vehicle from the party through the Ministry of Local Governance in Harare, long after he had given up hope.
Expressing deep gratitude, Chimhaka said the vehicle would ease the mobility struggles that had plagued his final years in office.
“I am so grateful for this gift. I struggled to travel due to health issues, and this shows I have not been forgotten after serving the nation with passion and perseverance. I asked for a vehicle in 2021 when I could no longer walk the ward, but it never came. To receive it now, when I least expected it, touches my heart,” said Chimhaka
His dedication to public service began early. During the liberation struggle, he served as a branch chairperson, coordinating support for fighters, later becoming district chairperson before being elected councilor in 1980.
Throughout his leadership, Chimhaka championed development in Ward 10. He negotiated with the Rural Electricity Fund (REA) to supply power to Chisenga Primary School, Taru Primary School, and Zvamapere Secondary School.
He also played a key role in establishing Zvamapere Secondary School, the sole secondary school in the ward, and facilitated renovations at Hlanga, Chisenga, Taru, and Chigapa Primary Schools.
In healthcare, he initiated the construction of Zvamapere Clinic, which, once completed, will serve 32 villages.
For years, the community relied on Takavarasha Clinic, nearly 15 kilometres away, and Chivi District Hospital for referrals.
“People in my community struggled for a long time without a central primary healthcare facility. I managed to facilitate the establishment of a clinic at Zvamapere Business Centre, though it remains unfinished,” said Chimhaka.
He urged current leaders to collaborate closely with village heads to ensure sustainable development.
“I advise today’s leaders to work hand-in-hand with village heads, as they are the immediate custodians of their communities,” he said.
Chimhaka’s legacy reflects a lifetime of service, marked by tangible improvements in education, health, and infrastructure—a record that may well stand as the longest uninterrupted council service in Zimbabwe.
