Makonde Rural District Council

Makonde Rural District Council (RDC) is a key local government authority in Zimbabwe’s Mashonaland West Province established in 1993 which marked a significant turning point in rural governance, as it was formed through the amalgamation of three previously distinct councils: The Umboe Rural Council (which covered large-scale commercial farming areas), the Chitomborwizi Rural Council (for small-scale commercial farming areas), and a portion of the Chirorodziva District Council (which served communal areas). 
The Makonde District spans approximately 8,680 square kilometers and it falls under the traditional authority of Chief Nemakonde. Historically, the district has been a strong agricultural hub, producing crops such as cotton, maize, and tobacco, and engaging in commercial cattle farming. Copper mining has also contributed to its economy. It serves 48,856 households with an average household size of 4.3 The council is a spoke council in the hub and spoke programme for gender mainstreaming, mentored by Zvimba RDC.