Zimbabwe: Mentorship as a Catalyst for Women’s Empowerment

Mentorship as a Catalyst for Women’s Empowerment 

In the rural heart of Marondera, Zimbabwe, Councilor Netsai Makamure is reshaping the future of leadership by nurturing the next generation of confident, capable young women. As the Gender Champion for Marondera Rural District Council and a nationally recognized advocate for women’s empowerment, she has dedicated herself to transforming the leadership landscape in communities where women have historically been excluded. 

For many years, only 2 out of 22 elected councilors in Marondera Rural were women, and without the quota system, the seven additional women including Makamure herself would not have been part of local governance. This imbalance motivated her to act. “I realised leadership development must begin from school going ages,” she reflected, describing the moment she decided to groom girls for leadership. Through her involvement in the Junior Council election process, she set out to ensure that girls were not just participating but winning. 

Among the girls she mentored was 15-year-old Anotidaishe Tasarireona, a shy rural student with intelligence, potential, and self-doubt. Netsai recognised her spark and committed to walk the journey with her guiding her through public speaking practice, voice projection, and confidence-building exercises. Anotidaishe’s transformation was swift and remarkable. Competing first at school level, then at ward level, she won each stage, becoming the Ward 19 Junior Councillor in March 2025. Just three months later, she contested against nine candidates from across the constituency and won again this time becoming the Junior Member of Parliament for Marondera East. At the 33rd Session of the Junior Parliament, she climbed even higher, appointed Junior Minister of Industry and Commerce. 

Her achievements sparked celebration across the district. Mr. Gundo, CEO of Marondera Rural District Council, emphasised the significance of such milestones, stating, “Investing in women is investing in the future of our nation; let’s continue uplifting these girl children as done to Anotidaishe.” Local Member of Parliament Mutokonyi echoed the sentiment: “Empowering women is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity.” 

The transformation did not end with personal accolades. Through her leadership journey, Anotidaishe gained unprecedented exposure meeting the President, Vice Presidents, and senior ministers, participating in national events, and gaining digital learning tools. She received a Samsung digital notepad and a partial bursary to ease her family’s financial burden. As part of a presidential reward for nurturing young leaders, her school received Starlink internet, boosting digital learning access for all students, especially girls. 

Her growth became visible to all. She transitioned from a shy rural girl into a confident, eloquent, well-presented leader capable of inspiring her peers. At school open days and youth events, she delivered moving speeches, including one at the provincial Youth Day Commemoration. Her father, Richmond Chikowore, summed up his pride, saying, “A woman should be her own liberator, for she is the pillar of her family.” 

The ripple effects spread across Marondera. Inspired by Makamure’s efforts, 15 out of 22 Junior Council seats in the district were won by girls an unprecedented shift signalling a new era of gender-balanced leadership. Parents, teachers, and community leaders began supporting girls’ participation, recognizing the long-term value of empowering young female voices. 

Reflecting on the broader impact, Makamure highlights how structured mentorship, community collaboration, and deliberate investment in girls can shift longstanding gender inequalities. She continues to champion leadership training, advocate for dismantling discriminatory norms, and strengthen opportunities for rural girls to dream and achieve beyond traditional expectations. 

Anotidaishe’s journey guided by Makamure’s commitment has become living proof that closing the leadership gap begins with nurturing one girl at a time. Her story is inspiring rural communities, uplifting schools, and shaping a future where girls not only aspire to lead but excel in positions once reserved for men. 

By Netsai Makamure, Marondera Zimbabwe