Masvingo, Zimbabwe – A dispute over the opening of Riverton Academy in Masvingo has led to a call for calm and swift action from Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira. The minister has urged local authorities and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to expedite the registration process for the school, which was blocked by Chief Murinye on Sunday.
The clash arose when Chief Murinye, who claims he didn’t authorize the school’s construction, blocked the road leading to the institution with his Isuzu truck. The school’s proprietor, Philimon Mutangiri, built the school on his ancestral land in Murinye Extension.
Chadzamira convened a meeting with Chief Murinye and Mutangiri, and it was agreed that the school can operate as a “satellite” of a registered institution while formalities are completed. “The chief’s role is to encourage development in their areas, not hinder it,” Chadzamira said.
However, Chief Murinye disagreed, saying learners can use the facilities temporarily, but the school should be relocated to “a suitable place”. He emphasized that he doesn’t want to “bless an illegality”.
The incident has highlighted concerns over land use and development in rural areas, with Chadzamira urging traditional leaders to work with authorities to resolve issues rather than taking matters into their own hands. The situation remains tense, but for now, learners can attend classes while the registration process is finalized.