The community of Lower Gweru is in mourning following the passing of one of Zimbabwe’s most respected traditional leaders, Chief Sogwala, who died peacefully at his homestead at the age of 92. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of traditional leadership in the Midlands Province.
Appointed to the chieftainship on November 10, 1981, Chief Sogwala served with distinction for over four decades, making him one of the longest-serving chiefs in Zimbabwe. His tenure, which spanned 43 years, was characterised by unwavering commitment to his people, a deep sense of duty, and a consistent effort to uphold cultural traditions and harmony within his community.
Confirming the passing of the veteran traditional leader, family spokesperson Bhekimpilo Moyo Hlabano expressed the family’s grief and appreciation for the legacy Chief Sogwala leaves behind.
“He died peacefully at home, surrounded by family. We are saddened by the loss, but we are also grateful for his long life and the wisdom he shared with generations,” said Hlabano.
Throughout his leadership, Chief Sogwala was widely revered for his calm demeanour, thoughtful leadership style, and his ability to resolve community disputes with fairness and dignity. He became a symbol of stability and unity, not only in Lower Gweru but across the broader Midlands region, where he played a pivotal role in shaping traditional governance.
Born in 1932, Chief Sogwala grew up in an era of great change, witnessing colonial rule, the liberation struggle, and Zimbabwe’s independence. His chieftaincy, beginning just after independence, placed him in a vital position to help guide the new nation through its early years, using traditional structures to reinforce national development and identity.
Over the years, he collaborated closely with government officials, fellow chiefs, and various stakeholders to ensure that the voices of rural communities were heard in national discourse. Despite the challenges of the modern era, he remained firmly rooted in traditional values, becoming an example of how cultural heritage and progress can coexist.
In recognition of his service, Chief Sogwala earned widespread respect from all levels of society — from villagers to senior government officials. He was known to mentor younger traditional leaders, share insights on customary law, and promote peace and development in his jurisdiction.
Lower Gweru Mourns Longest-Serving Traditional Leader, Chief Sogwala, Who Dies at 92
“Chief Sogwala was not only a custodian of culture but a mediator, a father figure, and a visionary. His passing is a huge loss not only to our family but to the entire Midlands Province and Zimbabwe at large,” said Hlabano.
Community members have also begun expressing their sorrow, with many describing the late chief as a humble and approachable leader who was always ready to listen. Residents of Lower Gweru have begun gathering at his homestead to pay their respects, and preparations for his funeral are already underway.
Although full funeral details were yet to be released at the time of reporting, the family indicated that more information, including dates and venue, will be made public in due course.
Several local leaders and traditional chiefs from surrounding areas are expected to attend the funeral, along with government representatives and community elders. Tributes are also anticipated from the National Council of Chiefs, which may officially acknowledge Chief Sogwala’s contributions to traditional governance and national cohesion.
In a country where traditional leaders continue to play a crucial role in rural administration, conflict resolution, and cultural preservation, the death of such a senior figure is deeply felt. Chief Sogwala’s leadership spanned generations, and his legacy will likely continue to inspire current and future custodians of Zimbabwe’s traditions.
As the community reflects on his life and contributions, many have called for his story to be documented as part of the nation’s oral and historical record. His long service is not only a testament to personal endurance but also to the resilience and relevance of traditional institutions in Zimbabwe’s evolving social landscape.
In the days ahead, as Lower Gweru and the nation prepare to bid farewell to one of its most enduring traditional figures, Chief Sogwala will be remembered not just as a chief, but as a bridge between past and present — a man who carried the spirit of his people with humility, wisdom, and unshakable purpose.
Source- ZimEye
