Online Reporter
Ronald Mpofu, [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police in Matabeleland South Province has taken an important step towards strengthening and uplifting women in uniform through the launch of a women’s network project.
The initiative is focused on training and upskilling female police officers across the province, recognising their role not only in law enforcement, but also in leadership and community development.
The programme is being driven by female officers themselves, all of whom carry out the same duties as their male colleagues. It is built on four key focus areas that speak directly to the realities faced by women in the service. These areas include training and development, equal career opportunities, the fight against sexual and gender-based violence, and nation building through social responsibility.
One clear sign of the project’s impact is the province’s leadership structure. Matabeleland South is now commanded by a female officer, with two districts also under female leadership. This shift reflects a growing recognition that capability, experience and commitment — not gender — should define leadership.
Matabeleland South Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Chiratidzo Dube, said the women’s network was created to develop female officers professionally and ensure they are well equipped for their duties.
“In terms of training and development, we always ensure that women police officers in Matabeleland South are considered for training at the Professional Updating Centre, Police Staff College, and other institutions. This equips them with the relevant skills, knowledge, and attitude to help them perform their duties effectively,” said Inspector Dube.
She said that the project also places strong emphasis on equality in career progression within the police force.
“On equal career opportunities, we believe women should have the same chances as men. You will note that our province is headed by Commissioner Elizabeth Phiri, a senior female police officer.
“In addition, Gwanda District is led by Chief Superintendent Bekezela Ndlovu while Umzingwane district is under the leadership of Chief Superintendent Sphiwe Makonese. We also have female drivers, officers in charge, investigating officers, trainers, and many more in the force.”
Inspector Dube also highlighted the role of the Victim Friendly Unit, a special section of the police responsible for handling cases of sexual and gender-based violence. Through the unit, the police work with communities to educate both potential victims and would-be offenders on the consequences of abuse, particularly its impact on children and families.
Beyond policing duties, the women’s network encourages its members to support one another and the wider community. Inspector Dube said female officers are urged to take part in income-generating projects and social initiatives.
“We also assist at old people’s homes and support our fellow members in times of need,” she added.
She stressed that the provincial ZRP Women’s Network stands as a reminder that when women are given skills, opportunities and support, they not only protect communities, but also lead and inspire change.
The impact of the initiative is already visible. One of the beneficiaries, Constable Nomalanga Thandekile Ndebele, spoke with pride about her role in the police service. She is a class one driver and an instructor at Bulawayo Driving School, and recently drove a ZRP bus from Bulawayo to Tshitshi Business Centre, transporting staff members who were attending the relaunch of the ZRP Client Service Charter for Bulilima and Mangwe districts.
Constable Ndebele successfully completed the 163 kilometre journey without any challenges, a clear reflection of her training and professionalism.
“I am very excited to be doing this job. I represent female empowerment, and I know this will give courage to other female workers that no boundary can stop you from doing what you love,” she said.
Her story captures the spirit of the ZRP Women’s Network in Matabeleland South — a quiet but firm movement that is proving, every day, that women in uniform are capable, confident and ready to lead.
