Zimbabwe: Gender champion empowering marginalised groups in Kariba

Through a series of deeply human‑centred initiatives, she has transformed awareness into action—ensuring that women, youth, people with disabilities and vulnerable families are seen, supported and equipped to thrive.

Her journey began with a focus on women’s health, but quickly expanded into a multi‑layered response to the intersecting issues that shape people’s lives. From breast cancer awareness to disability inclusion, skill‑building for marketplace women, youth anti‑drug campaigns and legal empowerment sessions, Councillor Masuku’s leadership is creating lasting systems of care, knowledge and solidarity across Kariba.

Promoting Women’s Health and Community Support

In 2024, Councillor Masuku organised a Breast Cancer Awareness event, determined to bridge the gap in early detection and treatment knowledge for women. With the generous support of Tamarind Lodge, the event became a safe and uplifting gathering where community members learned about prevention, symptoms and the importance of regular check‑ups.

Breast cancer survivors received food hampers, a gesture of solidarity and care that strengthened hope and resilience. Donations were also raised to assist patients facing the heavy financial burden of treatment. This event led to the formation of the Kariba Chapter Cancer Association, a community‑driven structure dedicated to ongoing support and advocacy.

The success of 2024 inspired an even more vibrant 2025 campaign. Participants received T‑shirts and joined Zumba Aerobics led by Zoro, emphasising both physical and mental wellness. Funds raised supported cancer patients, showing how health education and joyful movement could come together for social good.

Building Skills, Confidence and Legal Awareness for Women

During Women’s Day commemorations, Councillor Masuku focused on uplifting the women who keep the Nyamhunga and Batonga marketplaces running. She saw that many had little time for self‑care and encouraged them to value themselves and recognise their inherent beauty.

A makeup artist shared her story—showing that formal schooling is not required to acquire skills that are practical, affordable and empowering. She provided free demonstrations, teaching techniques women could use personally or as a potential income‑earning activity.

These sessions also opened space for conversations on Gender‑Based Violence, entrepreneurship and self‑enrichment. For many women, this was the first time they had received such support, motivation and information in one place.

In a later initiative, Masuku partnered with Kasambabezi FM and invited a lawyer to demystify the Marriage Act. Women gained crucial understanding of their rights, decision‑making power and legal protections—knowledge that strengthens autonomy and safety.

Enhancing Inclusion for People with Disabilities

Recognising the barriers faced by people with disabilities, Councillor Masuku partnered with the Bible Association of Zimbabwe to provide essential support: walking sticks, Braille Bibles and audio Bibles. These tools opened access to spiritual engagement, mobility and independence for individuals with visual and mobility impairments.

For many recipients, this was the first time they felt seen, included and valued within their community. This initiative deepened Masuku’s reputation for compassionate, inclusive leadership rooted in dignity and equality.

Engaging Youth Through Awareness and Service

On National Youth Day, Councillor Masuku gathered young people at her Salvation Army church to discuss the dangers of drug and substance abuse—a growing concern affecting many families. She encouraged them to make informed decisions, understand the risks and take responsibility for shaping their futures.

After the session, the group visited the local hospital where they cleaned the kitchen, prepared meals and served patients. This combination of education and service helped young people see their role as active contributors to community well‑being. It reinforced values of empathy, responsibility and collective care.

How Change Happened

These transformations were the result of consistent, targeted and collaborative action. Councillor Masuku paid close attention to the needs of different groups—women seeking empowerment, youth at risk of substance abuse, people with disabilities lacking access, and patients needing health information and support.

Her strategies included:

• Health initiatives on breast cancer, early detection and survivor support.
• Skill‑building and empowerment for women through practical demonstrations, entrepreneurship discussions and self‑care education.
• Legal awareness sessions explaining the Marriage Act and GBV protection mechanisms.
• Youth engagement through anti‑drug education and hands‑on service.
• Disability inclusion through mobility aids and accessible religious materials.
• Partnerships with churches, radio stations, health workers, lawyers, makeup artists and NGOs to widen reach and impact.

This structured, collaborative approach ensured that initiatives were practical, sustainable and firmly rooted in community needs.

Visible Impact and Evidence of Change

The impact of Councillor Masuku’s work is evident across Kariba:

• The Kariba Chapter Cancer Association now functions as a formal support hub.
• Women have gained confidence, practical skills and legal empowerment.
• Youth demonstrate responsibility and service through volunteering.
• People with disabilities have better access, mobility and inclusion.
• Resource distribution—food hampers, Braille Bibles, walking sticks—shows real material change.
• Event participation continues to grow, with strong feedback from community members and partners.
• Annual events have become part of community culture, showing sustained value and demand.

These outcomes reflect both tangible improvements and powerful shifts in attitudes, behaviour and community cohesion.

Sustaining and Scaling the Change

The foundation for long‑term impact is already in place. Sustainability will be strengthened through:

• Institutional structures like the Cancer Association.
• Ongoing partnerships with local organisations and professionals.
• Community ownership and participation.
• Integration of initiatives into annual cultural and commemorative events.
• Expansion to neighbouring districts.
• Training local champions to continue leading empowerment work.

With continued collaboration, education and community leadership, these initiatives can grow into a broader movement for empowerment across Zimbabwe.

By: Councillor Masuku

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