mbulelo smpofu
Blessing Karubwa
NKAYI District in Matabeleland North Province has long been described as “koMnyam’ubambile” (a backward place), a reputation stemming from its historical lack of development and limited access to basic services.
The district has faced numerous challenges, including drought, poor infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities, which have contributed to its underdevelopment and hindered its progress.
A recent visit to the district, however, revealed that Nkayi is no longer the “koMnyam’ubambile” of the past. While challenges persist, there are signs of progress and development. For instance, the increased availability of electricity, albeit limited, has brought some light to the district, both literally and metaphorically.
Thanks to the innovative strategies implemented by Chief Dakamela, Nkayi District is gradually shedding its “koMnyam’ubambile” reputation.
Since taking the helm in 2019, Chief Dakamela has encouraged his subjects to work harder towards the development of the district, leading to increased community engagement and a renewed sense of hope.
With innovative initiatives and a heart for his community, Chief Dakamela is not only changing lives but also rewriting the narrative of Nkayi, proving that one person’s vision can ignite a collective spirit of development and renewal.
From the outset of his leadership in 2019, Chief Dakamela recognised the potential within his people and the pressing need for change.
His journey began with the Isiphala Senkosi programme in 2020, a lifeline for villagers during times of drought, which have historically devastated agricultural communities.
This initiative ensures food security and provides a safety net for families facing uncertainty. “We are stronger when we stand together,” he emphasises, a mantra that resonates deeply in a district that once felt isolated and forgotten.
In his second initiative in 2021, the Chief launched the Imiklomelo KaDakamela Awards, an annual event honouring individuals whose contributions are fostering growth and development in this historically underprivileged district.
By recognising both local heroes and those from afar who are committed to uplifting the community, Chief Dakamela aims to inspire a collective sense of pride and possibility among villagers.
This initiative not only celebrates achievements but also serves as a powerful reminder that positive change is achievable, encouraging a spirit of collaboration and resilience in a district that has long been overshadowed by poverty.
Through the recognition of these efforts, Chief Dakamela is effectively rewriting the story of Nkayi, transforming it from a narrative of despair into one of hope and opportunity.
In 2022, he initiated the Dakamela Housing Project (DHP), a programme aimed at providing safe and dignified houses for the underprivileged and elderly.
“A house is not just a shelter; it’s a foundation of hope,” he frequently asserts, reflecting his deep understanding of the human experience.
By building houses for those in need, he has not only improved living conditions but has also fostered a sense of community pride and belonging.
Education, often the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, became another pillar of Chief Dakamela’s vision.
Through the Dakamela Education Foundation Scholarship (DEFS), initiated in 2023, he has opened doors for countless less privileged children and orphans, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their aspirations.
“Investing in our children is investing in the future of Nkayi,” he passionately states. With school fees covered, these young minds are now free to focus on their studies, dreaming of a brighter future.
In the same year, he spearheaded another transformative initiative known as Isibaya Senkosi, which aims to uplift his jurisdiction through sustainable livestock management.
By establishing a communal livestock fund, the project empowers local farmers to maintain a steady source of food during droughts, while also providing loans of livestock to underprivileged families for milking and farming.
This innovative approach not only fosters economic resilience but also strengthens community bonds, positioning Nkayi on a path toward sustainable development and self-sufficiency.
Recognition for Chief Dakamela’s relentless efforts has not gone unnoticed. Just this week, on Monday, in Harare, he was honoured by the Herald Heroes Community Awards as the most unsung hero in Matabeleland North, a testament to the profound impact of his work.
Organised by The Herald, the awards aim to spotlight exceptional individuals from each province whose selfless efforts often remain in the shadows.
As he accepted the award, he humbly attributed the honour to the collective spirit of the Nkayi community.
“This is not just my achievement; it belongs to every villager who has believed in our vision and worked tirelessly to make it a reality,” he declared, his eyes shining with pride.
In an interview, Chief Dakamela said he was not expecting anyone to be paying attention to the advancements being made in the Nkayi community, so the prize was unexpected.
The prize, he remarked, has both humbled and honoured the community.
“We feel honoured and humbled at once. We are honoured because it’s rare to be acknowledged. We are humbled because we didn’t think that the little that we do would be recognised by people outside our communities,” he said.
The honour, according to the Chief, will serve as a reminder of their origins and future goals, which will help shape their community’s journey.
In addition to his jurisdiction, he believes it serves as motivation and support for numerous communities that have decided to find worth in their work.
“It is important to note that we are part of a larger community and do not exist in isolation, just as a tree cannot be a forest and a forest cannot exist without trees. We are encouraged to be the good trees in a forest, as we are stronger as a community than in isolation,” he said.
He adds: “This award means we should do better, this award means there is a lot that can be done, and this award means that as communities, there is a lot we can achieve.
“Moving forward, there is a need for massive mobilisation in our grassroots communities, not forgetting the diasporans who need to be mobilised as well, as they are a serious stakeholder in the course of our future development.
“Lastly, there needs to be collaboration with organisations, businesses, and government ministries that share our vision for the community”.
As Nkayi emerges from the shadows of its past, Chief Dakamela stands at the forefront of change, a symbol of hope and a testament to the power of determined leadership.
His story is a reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, a single individual can light the way for an entire community, transforming despair into possibility and darkness into light.
