By Bigboy Madzivanzira
Community Based Rehabilitation Practitioner | Health Promotion Practitioner | Family Therapist / Accredited Freelance Journalist
BUHERA
Chief Tinotenda Garepi Mavhurudza of Buhera, known as Chief Chamutsa, has introduced new funeral regulations banning alcohol consumption, sale and distribution until after burial. The move has sparked debate across the district.
The “By-law for Buhera for Respect of Funeral Proceedings” was issued August 6. There will be a 3-week education period, with penalties starting August 27. Violations carry a US$30 fine or 1 goat for alcohol, and US$50 plus court fees for fighting or disruption.
Why The Chief Acted
According to the by-law, the decision follows “repeated acts of disrespect and disorder during funerals.”
Chief Chamutsa cited one incident where an intoxicated family member allegedly demanded a body be exhumed and a new grave dug during burial.
“Such conduct is unacceptable,” the Chief said. “We must preserve the dignity of the deceased and allow the bereaved to be consoled in peace.”
Legal expert Passmore Nyakureba of Maunga Maanda and Associates says traditional leaders have mandate over cultural practice.
“Yes, he can do that. In some areas people do not consume alcohol during funerals, while in others they do. So it all depends on the regulations in a given area. At the end of the day, it is a cultural issue.”
Community Concern: Dialogue Over Blanket Ban
However, many residents feel a blanket ban misses the point.
From a social work perspective, funerals serve multiple functions: mourning, support, and community cohesion. For many, staying up all night singing and keeping vigil is how they process grief and support the bereaved family.
“I have full respect for our chiefs and their role,” says Madzivanzira. “But as practitioners we know behavior change works better through education and targeting culprits, not punishing everyone. The headmen already have power to deal with the one who disturbs a funeral.”
Other residents raised concerns about fairness:
“At most funerals, those who drink are the ones who keep vigil all night. The church teams often sleep. Why ban all of us because of one person?” said Mai Tariro, Ward 12.
Another question raised was consistency: “We see cases of abuse in institutions including churches. We don’t ban all churches. We deal with the offender. The same should apply here.”
A Path Forward?
Community practitioners suggest alternatives:
1. Targeted enforcementUse existing fines to deal with fighters and disrupters only
2. Zoning Ban alcohol at graveside and during burial, allow it in designated areas for vigil
3. Community dialogue Chiefs, church leaders, headmen and residents co-create guidelines
“Chiefs are custodians of culture. Communities are bearers of culture,” Madzivanzira added. _“Rehabilitation means bringing both together, not one imposing on the other.”
Acting Manicaland Provincial Director John Misi said his office had not been officially informed.
Whats Next
Enforcement begins August 27. Headmen and village heads will monitor and educate.
With the nation still mourning 72 lives lost at Kariba, the conversation around dignity in grief is timely. The question in Buhera now is: can we restore respect without losing the ways that help people heal?
The Blast Asks You:
Should Buhera amend the by-law to target offenders only, or keep the total ban? Send your view to 0773 367 913.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bigboy Madzivanzira is a Community Based Rehabilitation Practitioner, Health Promotion Practitioner, Family Therapist, and Accredited Freelance Journalist reporting on social issues and public health.
With years of experience working with families and communities across Zimbabwe, Bigboy focuses on stories that bridge culture, health, and human dignity. His work promotes dialogue, healing, and community-led solutions to social challenges.
He believes that traditional leadership and community voices must work together to preserve respect while protecting the ways people cope with grief.
For comments, story tips, or interviews:
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📧 Email: healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and community members interviewed, and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Blast.