Section 282: Functions of traditional leaders
Constitution of Zimbabwe
(1) Traditional leaders have the following functions within their areas of jurisdiction—
(a) to promote and uphold the cultural values of their communities and, in particular, to
promote sound family values;
(b) to take measures to preserve the culture, traditions, history and heritage of their
communities, including sacred shrines;
(c) to facilitate development;
(d) in accordance with an Act of Parliament, to administer Communal Land and to protect
the environment;
(e) to resolve disputes amongst people in their communities in accordance with customary
law; and
(f) to exercise any other functions conferred or imposed on them by an Act of Parliament.
(2) Except as provided in an Act of Parliament, traditional leaders have authority, jurisdiction and control over the Communal Land or other areas for which they have been appointed, and over persons within those Communal Lands or areas.
(3) In the performance of their functions, traditional leaders are not subject to the direction or control of any person or authority, except as may be prescribed in an Act of Parliament.
(4) An Act of Parliament must provide for the regulation of the conduct of traditional leaders.
Insight: Traditional Leaders as Cultural Guardians with Modern Governance Roles
This section establishes traditional leaders as both cultural custodians and administrative authorities. It creates a dual governance system where traditional leaders maintain significant autonomy while operating within Zimbabwe's constitutional framework. The provision balances respect for cultural heritage with contemporary governance needs, allowing traditional leaders to resolve local disputes using customary law while still being subject to parliamentary oversight. This reflects Zimbabwe's attempt to integrate traditional governance structures into its modern constitutional democracy.