By Kelvin Kasiwulaya/Thelma Wandayi
The city of Gweru was buzzing with excitement as newly elected councillors were sworn in to represent their respective wards.
Mangwanya Mercy, Chuma Faith Rutendo, Zvidzai Girley Manka, Chivhoko Martin, Mumvana Aaron, Choto Lovemore, Marufu Hlupeko, Manyanga Jackson, Madzikura Nyaradzo, Paradza Admire, Rutsvara Kumirai, Chimombe Takavada Tadious, Mutusva Augustine, Ndava Danny, Dzivakwe Norest, Mawere Phillemon, Chikwira Prosperity Munyaradzi and Mazango William, all from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party were eager and excited to take on their responsibilities.
The swearing-in ceremony began at exactly 12:32 pm, with each councillor pledging in front of Gweru Acting Town Clerk, Mr Livingston Churu, to serve their local authority with integrity and dedication. There was a sense of pride and honor as the councillors took their oaths, knowing that they had been entrusted with the task of ensuring that the city of Gweru becomes a prosperous and thriving community.
Apart from the 18 elected councillors, there were 5 women councillors who were elected on the proportional representation quota for Women, Kundiona Siphiwe, Magaya Mirriam, Masocha Ronah, Chakauya Olivia Sibongile, and Mlambo Fortunate. They too, took their oaths and pledged to represent their communities with honesty and efficiency.
Gweru now boasts a gender-balanced council with the inclusion of 9 female councillors. This presents an opportunity for the council to prioritize gender issues in their agenda and policies, and also provides a platform for female representation in local governance.