Online Reporter
Fidelis Munyoro
Chief Court Reporter
TWELVE new legal practitioners were admitted to the High Court roll in a poignant and inspiring admission ceremony, marking the culmination of years of rigorous study, sacrifice and determination.
Among them were eight women and four men, each stepping into the noble profession ready to take on the mantle of justice.
The ceremony, though a routine tradition, carried emotional weight that left even the most seasoned attendees in awe.
The packed courtroom buzzed with anticipation as family and friends gathered to witness their loved ones achieve this monumental milestone.
Laura Mzambi, Ellen Zimunya, Tawanda Chidakwa, Ayanda Kalume, Ruvarashe Chiwaya, Manatsa Manikai, Mapfumo Matimba, Adelaide Masakaruka, Nyasha Nyamadzawo, Simbarashe Mariwande, Oscell Ushe and Pride Muchembere — have officially earned their place as registered lawyers of the High Court.
Their journey of hard work, dedication and passion for justice led them to the monumental achievement, marking the beginning of what promises to be impactful legal careers.
However, the spotlight naturally gravitated toward one of the new practitioners, Laura Muzambi, a visually impaired woman whose story of resilience and triumph silenced the whispers of doubt and inspired admiration from every corner of the room.
Laura, who studied law at the University of Zimbabwe, stood as a living testament to the power of determination and the unyielding pursuit of dreams.
When Laura’s name was called, the atmosphere shifted.
Led to the stand by her mother, Mrs Vernamay Muzambi, she became the embodiment of courage and perseverance.
The courtroom, filled with murmurs of awe, watched as Laura defied expectations, taking her place among her peers with grace and quiet strength.
It was a deeply emotional moment, one that brought tears to the eyes of many.
“How did she do it?” some whispered, marvelling at her journey to join the esteemed profession.
One by one, the new practitioners took their judicial and loyalty oaths, standing tall as they committed themselves to upholding the principles of justice.
Presiding over the ceremony, Justice Tawanda Chitapi offered words of wisdom that resonated deeply.
“Now you are entitled to appear before this court and any other court in which a legal practitioner may appear,” he said.
“But remember, this is a profession that demands diligence, humility and competence. There is no room for laziness or incompetence in lawyering.”
Justice Chitapi reminded the new lawyers of the gravity of their responsibility, emphasising the importance of integrity and dedication to their clients and society (Law Society of Zimbabwe).
“By demeaning yourself,” he explained, “it means humbling yourself. Respect the society which has bestowed you with the honour of being a lawyer. Abuse of this profession will not be tolerated.”
For Laura, the moment was nothing short of extraordinary.
“I feel happy and am grateful to God,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
“I have always been someone who stands for justice. Growing up, I disliked injustice. I told myself, one day, I want to be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Her unwavering belief in justice and determination to advocate for the voiceless had driven her through every challenge.
With her admission, Laura is not only fulfilling a personal dream but also blazing a trail for others in similar circumstances.
“Now, my new dream is to reach the pinnacle of this profession,” she said with quiet confidence.
“I will work hard, learn from experienced colleagues, and one day, I will be at the top.”
Laura’s journey began at St Giles in Milton Park, Harare, where she completed her primary education, before moving to Margaret Hugo in Masvingo for her secondary schooling. She then went on to the University of Zimbabwe, where her passion for law flourished.
Her mother, Mrs Muzambi, could hardly contain her pride.
“I am so happy for Laura,” she said, her voice trembling with emotion.
“She has made me so proud today. I never thought she would become a lawyer.”
Mrs Muzambi recounted Laura’s childhood, describing her as an avid reader with an innate talent for resolving disputes.
“Even as a child, she was gifted when it came to settling disagreements. Today, I am the proud mother of a lawyer. Despite her disability, she has achieved what many able-bodied people have failed to do. She has fulfilled her dream.”
Laura’s achievement is historic—she becomes the third blind lawyer to be registered as a practitioner of the High Court this year.
Her story is one of unwavering perseverance, inspiring those around her and proving that no obstacle is insurmountable with determination and faith.
The ceremony was not without further wisdom from legal luminaries.
Mr Canaan Dube, a senior partner at Dube, Manikai and Hwacha, shared thoughtful advice with the new practitioners, urging them to remember the “three Cs” as guiding principles in their careers: character, commitment, and courage.
“Character comes first,” said Mr Dube.
“You can have all the expertise and experience in the world, but without good character, it means nothing. Be a person of integrity and good manners. Let your actions reflect the values of this profession.”
He continued with a call for commitment.
“Once you receive work, hit the ground running. Have fire in your belly and deliver your best. When clients see your dedication, they’ will trust you and value your services. But if you drag your feet, you will lose not just their trust, but your reputation.”
Finally, Mr Dube underscored the importance of courage.
“If you believe in what is right, stand firm. When you are in court, even as a junior, let your courage shine. Judges and justice itself will protect you when you stand for what is right. Courage of conviction is critical, especially in our challenging environment.”
As the ceremony concluded, the courtroom buzzed with pride, applause and hope.
Laura Muzambi’s story stood out as a beacon of inspiration, proving that the human spirit, when fuelled by determination and belief, can overcome any obstacle.
For the 12 new lawyers, the journey had just begun, but for Laura, the journey was already an extraordinary testament to what is possible when dreams meet courage.
Peter Tanyanyiwa