Concluding the Zimbabwe Leadership Programme
After five cohorts and eight years in the country, the ICLD programme “Capacitating Local Leaders in Zimbabwe” has come to an end and all activites have now been completed. The overall objective of the programme has been to strengthen the leadership and networks of local politicians and local authorities throughout Zimbabwe.
The programme, funded by the Embassy of Sweden in Harare, has been conducted since 2014 by ICLD in cooperation with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, Gender Links, and Midlands State University whose contribution, support and guidance to the ICLD staff were determining its success.
130 leaders from almost all 92 local authorities
Eight years of the programme have resulted in important achievements both within the development of the programme and on the ground in Zimbabwe. It has completed five cohorts where more than 130 male and female leaders from almost all 92 local authorities in Zimbabwe have improved their leadership abilities through knowledge, experience, cooperation and action.
The overall objective of the programme has been to strengthen the leadership and networks of local politicians and local authorities throughout the country. The Sustainable Development Goals have been at the core of the training and the focus has been set on raising knowledge and awareness about them, especially regarding gender-related issues.
The final workshop
Between 29 November and 1 December 2022, the ICLD staff went to Harare for the final workshop where the participants of the last cohort presented the results of their change projects as well as took part in peer-teaching workshops and study visits about strengthening the impact and securing sustainability of their project results.
Participants of the programme have formed teams consisting of one Senior Council Official and one elected Councilor and worked together on their leadership skills while developing a community project related to the Sustainable Development Goals. They now have the potential to act as advocates and role models for other men and women who may consider making a career in politics. The programme has also sought to foster institutional change through capacity building and individual learning in several areas relevant to local development with the premise of participation and inclusiveness – leaving no one behind. This will make an impact on local democracy and human rights in the future.
“I was exposed to reviewing my own qualities as a strategic issue to improve my leadership style. Then this leadership style translated into my organisation. It was interesting that it made me a better leader, it made me a better officer to lead the efforts of others and to accomplish our goals. This is spilt over to society. Where the same culture that we inculcated within the council is cascaded down to the broader society. Trust me, it has brought unity and a purpose. We now know where we are coming from and where we are going!”
Siqubumthetho Dube, Bubi Rural District Council
