Zimbabwe: When No One Is Left Behind: The Transformative Leadership of Margaret Gororo

In the heart of Ward 5 in Chitowa 2, Murewa District, stands Councillor Margaret Gororo, a 62-year-old leader whose life has been shaped by service, courage, and a deep commitment to those societies often overlooked. As the Council Gender Committee Chairperson and a long-standing community leader, Margaret has dedicated herself to transforming the lives of women, youth, and people with disabilities. “Those who have sharp minds sometimes fail to speak because they are not recognised by anyone,” said Margaret Gororo. 

Her journey of leadership spans decades. Having served in party structures since 1976 and as councillor since 2013, Margaret has learned that sustainable development begins with inclusion. “I do not wait for transformation to happen; I initiate it and inspire others,” said Margaret Gororo. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: no one should be left behind.

Margaret’s work arose from real struggles she witnessed daily. Many women in her community lacked income sources, leading to frequent domestic disputes fuelled by financial pressure. Youth faced idleness, drug abuse, and early pregnancies, while people with disabilities lived without mobility, dignity, or voice. “I see potential where others see limitations,” said Gororo, and that belief has guided her every step.

Taking action, Margaret mobilised resources and created opportunities. She supported four women’s groups to start poultry projects, giving each group 100 road-runner chicks. She further uplifted a dressmaking group by donating 60 metres of cloth so they could revive their sewing business. Their gratitude runs deep. As group member Jenifer Muchengadava said, “Thank you for giving us another chance to pursue our sewing business.”

Her support extended to the youth as well. Understanding the risks of idle time, she bought sports uniforms and a netball for girls at Nyauroyi Secondary School-creating a safe space for teamwork, discipline, and growth. The school’s appreciation was unmistakable. “As Nyauroyi Secondary School, we are happy for receiving the sports uniforms for the girls, and this will take the journey of sports for the girls to the next level,” said Mr. Tinashe Timire.

For people with disabilities, Margaret provided five wheelchairs to restore dignity and independence. For parents like Tabeth Makore, this gesture was life-changing. “Being the mother of children with disability, I am happy with what you have done for my children,” she said warmly.

The change that followed has been remarkable. Women who once depended entirely on their husbands now run small businesses, contribute to household income, buy school uniforms, and support their families. Many families have witnessed a reduction in domestic conflict as women gain financial stability. Youth are spending more time in sports and less time on the streets, leading to a visible drop in drug abuse and early pregnancies. People with disabilities now attend meetings, move freely, and participate in community life with dignity.

The transformation is not only personal but communal. Improved household incomes mean more families can pay council development levies, resulting in road grading and better service delivery. Women farmers now buy their own inputs, strengthening food security in Chitowa’s farming communities. Husbands, once burdened by being sole providers, now express relief and pride in their wives’ progress. As Margaret proudly notes, “The women are happy, they are now able to fend for their families.”

The evidence of change is everywhere: thriving poultry projects, active youth teams, reduced gender-based violence, improved school attendance, and strengthened community unity. Women now aspire to more, and many have begun helping others start their own income-generating projects.

To sustain and scale these achievements, Margaret advocates for training in entrepreneurship, record keeping, group cohesion, registration of women’s businesses, and strong market linkages. She also encourages collaboration with agricultural extension officers to support poultry projects and continued mobilisation of youth for sports and development initiatives.

Today, Margaret Gororo stands not just as a councillor but as a living example of what intentional, compassionate leadership can accomplish. Her story proves that empowered individuals empower communities and that “when everyone is included, we all move forward together.”