By Staff reporter
ZAKA – Chief Ndanga of Zaka has issued a stern warning against the desecration of funerals, emphasizing the sacred nature of burial ceremonies and calling for utmost respect for the deceased.
The chief made these remarks during a crime awareness campaign organized by the Zimbabwe Republic Police at Gumbo Business Centre, where he gathered with his headmen, village heads, and local residents.
The traditional leader condemned the practice of transport touts taking coffins and running with them on top of vehicles, stating that such behavior showed disrespect for both the dead and mourning families. He reminded communities that touting remains illegal in Zimbabwe and would not be tolerated at funerals.
Chief Ndanga specifically addressed cases involving deceased sex workers, warning community members against stripping or mocking bodies based on the deceased’s profession. He emphasized that death cleanses all worldly habits, quoting the Shona principle “Wafa Wanaka” (the deceased is now clean).
“Funerals are sacred occasions that demand respect. Whether the deceased was a saint or a sinner in life, in death they deserve dignity. Those who mock or disrespect the dead will face consequences.
If heard of such an incident, I will punish the headman who in turn would punish the village head. So you village heads, you cannot allow that to happen in your eyes,” said Chief Ndanga.
The chief also condemned the growing practice of taking photographs during body viewings, describing it as “unAfrican” and disrespectful. He urged people to take pictures of their relatives while they are still alive rather than during funeral proceedings.
In addition to funeral regulations, Chief Ndanga addressed sanitation concerns in his jurisdiction. He announced that by the end of the month, every household must have a functional toilet or face consequences.
“We agreed in January that by this time everyone would have a toilet. So I will start by fining village heads two goats if they are found without toilets in their areas. This is not just about cleanliness but also about safety and dignity,” said Chief Ndanga. “
The chief highlighted the security risks particularly faced by women who relieve themselves in bushes, noting several cases of rape and assault. He also mentioned the social embarrassment that comes from being seen in compromising situations by neighbors, which sometimes leads to people avoiding each other in the community.
Chief Ndanga gave until the end of September for all households to construct toilets, warning that those who fail to comply would face traditional justice through the court system.
ZRP Officer Commanding Masvingo Province, Commissioner Friedrick Mbengwa, who was guest of honor at the event, urged village heads to collaborate with police to combat crime. He emphasized the importance of reporting all criminal activities and ensuring proper follow-up on cases.
“Village heads should have contacts of the Officer in Charge and the District Police Commander so that if cases are not handled properly, they can escalate them through the chain of command. Community cooperation is essential in fighting crime effectively,” said Commissioner Mbengwa.
