“I do not come to lead with entitlement. “I embrace servant leadership—a leadership that is transparent, inclusive, and accountable.”~ Nehemiah
By Patrick Ombima, Luanda
In a vibrant and colorful ceremony held at Ebwiranyi Primary School, David Nehemiah Ombuni Mandu was officially installed as the new Chairman of the Omwiranyi Community, pledging to lead with integrity, inclusivity, and a vision for collective progress.
Addressing hundreds of community members who turned up for the inauguration, Nehemiah said the occasion marked a new chapter of unity and shared responsibility.
“Today is a day of great joy, a day of unity, and a celebration of the strength of community spirit and the power of collective vision,” he said, receiving a warm reception from the crowd.
The newly elected chairman paid glowing tribute to the community elders for their wisdom, the youth for their energy, and the women for their steadfast prayers and encouragement. “This victory is not mine alone, it belongs to all of us,” he declared.
Nehemiah described the Omwiranyi as a proud and resilient people, deeply rooted in culture, dignity, and faith. However, he acknowledged the community still faced pressing challenges that required urgent and focused attention.
“I do not come to lead with entitlement,” he said. “I embrace servant leadership—a leadership that is transparent, inclusive, and accountable.”
He underscored that his tenure would be anchored on three pillars: peace, love, and unity. “Without peace, we cannot build; without love, we cannot coexist; without unity, we cannot thrive,” he said.
“We must strengthen our schools, improve access to healthcare, nurture young talent, promote clean and sustainable living, and safeguard our cultural heritage,” ~ Nehemiah
Calling on the residents of Ebwiranyi and the wider Omwiranyi community to rise above personal interests, Nehemiah urged them to embrace a shared vision for development in areas such as education, health, youth empowerment, agriculture, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation.
“We must strengthen our schools, improve access to healthcare, nurture young talent, promote clean and sustainable living, and safeguard our cultural heritage,” he said.
Reaching out to fellow leaders and dignitaries present, Nehemiah appealed for partnerships and collaboration. “We cannot do this alone. We ask for your guidance and support as we build Ebwiranyi into a model community—a place of hope, prosperity, and harmony.”
He also took a firm stand against discrimination, divisive politics, and hate. “Under my leadership, every voice will count, every idea will be heard, and every effort will be recognized. We are one people, and we shall walk forward together,” he affirmed.
Luanda MP Dick Maungu, who attended the event, congratulated the new leader and reminded him that leadership is both a divine calling and a sacred trust.
“Leadership comes from God,” Maungu said. “Be courageous and work diligently for the good of those who entrusted you with this mandate. Speak boldly, serve with humility, and remember—leadership is not about position, but about action.”
Maungu urged Nehemiah to remain a steadfast voice for the people and a pillar of unity, stressing that vocal and responsible leadership was crucial to overcoming local challenges and unlocking development potential.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the invaluable role elders play in preserving values and guiding communities.
“The wisdom and leadership of our elders continue to be a guiding light for our society,” Osotsi said, reaffirming his commitment to supporting cultural institutions and grassroots leadership.
He praised the ceremony as more than just symbolic, calling it a reaffirmation of identity, tradition, and moral values.
“These events are a testament to the vibrant cultural heritage of our region and our unwavering respect for traditional leadership,” he said. “They are vital to community development and preserving the values that bind us together.”
