Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent swearing-in of Zimbabwe’s first female Chief Justice, Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza, together with Honourable Tsitsi Zhou as Lands and Rural Development Deputy Minister, has been hailed as a powerful demonstration of the Second Republic’s commitment to women in leadership.
This was underscored by chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Women Affairs, Community and SME Development, Honourable Getrude Mutandi, who described the appointments as a clear vote of confidence in women’s ability to shape the nation’s future.
Addressing the Manicaland 2026 Provincial Women’s Day commemorations gathering held at Grassflats Primary School, Mandere Business Centre in Chipinge District last Saturday, Honourable Mutandi: “I also want to appreciate His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, for the deliberate efforts being made under the Second Republic to empower women and open doors for women in leadership.
“This week, Zimbabwe made history through the appointment of Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as the first female Chief Justice of Zimbabwe.
“This is not just an appointment; it is a message to every girl child that leadership positions are not reserved for men only. Under the leadership of His Excellency, we have also witnessed women being appointed into key national positions, including: Honourable Tsitsi Zhou as the Lands and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo as Prosecutor-General, Mrs Virginia Mabhiza as Attorney-General, Justice Mary Zimba-Dube as Judge President of the High Court, and Mrs Vimbai Nyemba as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Parliamentary and Legal Affairs.
“These appointments show that empowering women is, not merely a slogan, but a practical commitment being implemented by the Second Republic.”
Giving an analogy of her own ascendency in political and Government leadership, Honourable Mutandi said: “Today, I stand before you, not just as a leader, but as a woman who has lived through the challenges many women and girls continue to face every day. My story is not unique. It is the story of many women in our communities who have had to fight to be heard, to be respected and to be given an opportunity.
“Growing up, leadership spaces were often seen as places for men. Women were expected to remain in the background, to support quietly and never to lead openly.
“Even when one had the ability, confidence or ideas, society would still ask: “Can a woman really lead?” When I became involved in leadership and public service, I encountered resistance. Some people would openly say that politics and leadership were too difficult or too dirty for women.
“Others believed that a woman’s place was only in the home and not in decision-making spaces. At times, these words were discouraging and painful. But I refused to allow those beliefs to define my future. I continued to work hard, to participate, to speak up and to represent my community with dedication.
“Along the journey, I realised that when women are given opportunities, they deliver results, strengthen communities and inspire future generations. Today, I am proud to stand here as evidence that women can lead, women can decide and women can transform communities.”
Honourable Mutandi exhorted young girls to remain confident and never shy to express their talents, even in leadership positions.
“To the young girls gathered here today, I want to say: do not be afraid to dream big. Your background must never limit your future. Participate in school leadership, speak confidently and believe that your voice matters.
“To the men in our communities, I encourage you to continue supporting women and girls. Empowered women do not weaken communities; they strengthen families, economies and the nation as a whole.
“My testimony today is simple: when women are given opportunities, they rise. When girls are encouraged, they excel. And when communities support women’s leadership, society progresses. Let us continue working together to ensure that every woman and girl has equal opportunities to participate, lead and succeed,” she said.
