Zimbabwe: Infrastructure development and enhanced lighting using sustainable solar system energy.

Takavingei Mahachi, is a sitting councilor in Beitbridge Municipality, Zimbabwe, who is currently serving his second term representing Ward 3 Urban. The dynamic councilor also chairs the Environmental Management and Works Committee and is proud to attest that Beitbridge is one of the cleanest busy boarder post in Southern Africa. Mahachi reflected on his role in the municipality and his commitment to promoting gender equality, youth inclusion, and overall community development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all voices, particularly those of women and youth, are heard and valued in local government decision-making processes. 

Mahachi has been deeply involved in community engagement, actively listening to the concerns of both male and female residents in Beitbridge. “We have to ensure that both men and women are given equal representation in local government,” he stated, highlighting his belief in fairness and the importance of involving everyone, irregardless of their gender, in shaping the community's future. 

 Over the years, Mahachi’s leadership has contributed to significant changes in the municipality. One of the key initiatives has been the adoption of a gender policy in 2021, which aims to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all. The Municipality of Beitbridge achieved gender balance within its council, with four men and four women councillors, something that was previously unheard of. Mahachi pointed out that this policy has not only empowered council employees but also positively impacted the lives of women and youth across the municipality. 

Local entrepreneur Angellina Tauya, reflecting on the impact of these changes, noted, “Women have the potential to create change and stand up for what they believe.” Tauya credited the municipality's gender policy and the accompanying training sessions for enabling her to do more for both herself and her community. 

The Municipality has also been proactive in engaging the community through regular budget consultations. These consultations have allowed residents to voice their concerns and priorities, which has led to better planning and resource allocation. Notably, vendors, many of whom are women have seen their concerns addressed through these meetings. Brenda  Beitbridge Municipality, Zimbabwe, a local vendor, shared her gratitude, saying, “Before this, we never had the chance to talk to the council. Now, they listen to us. The biggest obstacle to our growth was always being left out.

 But now, with the council’s support, things are changing.” Mahachi’s efforts have also led to tangible improvements in the community. One example is the installation of tower lights in areas that had been experiencing rising crime. The municipality, using funds from the ward retention fund, committed to improving safety and infrastructure. Mahachi emphasized that the Beitbridge Town Master Plan now includes the input of residents, ensuring that future developments align with their needs and aspirations. 

Further, the municipality has created new opportunities for local entrepreneurs through initiatives like the Beitbridge Business Exhibitions. These events have provided small business owners especially women and youth with platforms to network and showcase their work, ultimately boosting the local economy. “Women and youth must not just be spectators in their communities but active contributors to their local economies,” Mahachi stated. He has seen these efforts yield positive results, citing the growing involvement of women and youth in both local businesses and community projects. 

To ensure long-term sustainability, the Municipality of Beitbridge has invested in various initiatives. A notable example is the development of an 11.4-megalitre water reservoir, which has significantly improved access to clean water for the community, reducing the burden on women who had previously spent hours fetching water from distant sources.

 “We are grateful for this project,” said Mary Ngorima, a local resident. “No longer will women have to suffer from the stress of fetching water it’s a game changer for us.” The municipality has also focused on capacity building and training, providing workshops on gender frameworks, gender-based violence, and sexual harassment in the workplace. Mahachi highlighted that these efforts were essential in promoting a more inclusive work environment and ensuring that council employees were equipped to support gender equality initiatives. 

Looking into the future, Mahachi expressed his commitment to scaling up these efforts. He emphasized the importance of leadership commitment and evidence-based planning to sustain the progress made. The municipality has partnered with organizations like the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and Community Youth Development Trust (CYDT) to promote gender equity and raise awareness about gender-based violence.

 “We are already seeing more women in positions of influence,” Mahachi pointed out, noting the recent appointment of a female Roads Technician to the municipality's workforce. “Our goal is to continue creating opportunities for women and youth in decision-making positions, and this is just the beginning.” Overall, the changes in Beitbridge reflect a broader effort to create a more inclusive, responsive, and vibrant community.

 Mahachi’s leadership, alongside the council’s commitment to gender equality, has fostered an environment where both men and women, as well as youth, are empowered to contribute to the development of their community. “We’ve come a long way,” said Chirozva Komborero, a local leader. “For many years, women were not seen as equal partners in development. Now, we are recognized, we are heard, and we are part of the decision-making process.” 

The transformation in Beitbridge is not just about governance; it is about improving the lives of the people fostering empowerment, economic growth, and a sense of belonging for all residents, regardless of gender or background. 

By Takavingei Mahachi, Beitbridge Municipality, Zimbabwe