A funeral service for the late Chief Malaba of Kezi was held at his rural home in Matobo District this Wednesday, drawing together a community that has greatly benefited from his leadership.
While many areas in the country grapple with land degradation due to uncontrolled deforestation, Malaba Ward in Matobo District stands out as a beacon of environmental stewardship. This achievement is largely due to the strict environmental regulations enforced by Chief Malaba, one of the longest-serving chiefs in Matabeleland South Province.
Villagers who attended Chief Malaba’s funeral service shared their memories of his commitment to the environment.
“It was not allowed to cut down trees in this area,” said one villager.
Another added, “The Chief was very strict about the environment and cultural laws.”
“The loss is not just for the family but for the entire community. The trees you see around are there because he never allowed people to cut them down,” said family representative Mr. Luke Ncube.
Chief Malaba’s humility and leadership qualities left a lasting impression on the local community.
Roman Catholic Priest Father Innocent Ndlovu remarked, “Chief Malaba was a humble and straightforward man.”
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Evelyn Ndlovu, described Chief Malaba as a fountain of wisdom.
“As the government, we are saddened by the passing of Chief Malaba. He was a guardian to the young chiefs we are installing and a visionary, humble traditional leader,” she said.
Born David Christopher Malaba, Chief Malaba was installed as substantive Chief in 1988 after the death of his father, Ntelela Malaba, in 1986.
Chief Malaba is survived by his wife and five children.
