Councillor Nokuthula Moyo’s Inspiring Journey in Gwanda North: Overcoming Challenges and Empowering Communities

Written by Loraine Phiri

Councillor Nokuthula Moyo, representing Gwanda North, Ward 4 in Gwanda Rural District, is making a significant difference in the lives of her community despite facing substantial obstacles. Her commitment to community development and gender equality is evident as she addresses the unique challenges she faces as a woman in local governance.

In an interview, Councillor Moyo highlighted the vast size of her ward, encompassing 14 villages. This poses logistical difficulties, as she often travels more than 10 kilometres to fulfil her duties. Transportation issues are a consistent challenge, making it difficult to effectively represent villagers

“My biggest challenge as a woman councillor is the size of my ward. It’s vast, with 14 villages. Transportation is a problem. Sometimes I travel more than 10 kilometres making it hard to effectively reach everyone,” says Cllr Moyo.

Undeterred, Councillor Moyo has shown remarkable resilience. She understands the importance of inclusivity and takes the time to understand the diverse needs of her ward.

“My role has taught me to understand everyone, different characters, and accommodate them in their diversity,” notes Cllr Moyo.

She has also been proactive in encouraging villagers to take ownership of their communities. This approach has led to success stories, such as villagers donating cement to construct a slab in a local river.

“I have advised people to develop their communities so that we attract donors. There are some villagers who donated cement to construct a slab for Shake Mtshabezi river. Our aim is once we finish, we go to another river. I always advise women to work hard for their communities and be involved in every committee,” says Cllr Moyo.

Her proactive engagement extends to collaborating with a diverse range of stakeholders through monthly Ward development committees (WADCO) meetings and leveraging on whatsapp to foster efficient communication and collaboration.

“I call a Ward Development Committee assembly every month where I give reports and updates. Each village has a village development committee (VIDCO). During WADCO meetings, each village secretary brings a report from their village. I also invite school heads, veterinary officers, agricultural extension officers, and healthcare committees. I work with resident leaders, village heads, headmen, and chiefs. I also have Whatsapp groups from the village level up to the ward level,” said Cllr Moyo.

Cllr Moyo draws inspiration from the lessons she learned from WILD to embody the ethos of inclusive and proactive leadership.

“I am using lessons I learned from WILD on self-mastery to be a punctual, active listener, and effective communicator to my community. I also encourage women leadership because I believe in the potential of women,” she says.

Despite the challenges, Councillor Nokuthula Moyo remains steadfast in her commitment to uplifting her community. Her dedication and innovative approaches serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring development and empowerment in the Gwanda Rural District.