Councillor Mara Makunura, a Zimbabwean-born politician from Chinhoyi, has made history by being elected as the Mayor of Rushmoor Borough Council in the United Kingdom. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes both the first female and black African to hold the position.
Cllr Makunura, previously serving as the deputy mayor, will lead Rushmoor for the coming year. In her acceptance speech at the council’s annual meeting, she articulated a strong commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities for all community members. She underscored the importance of leadership that reflects the diverse demographics of Rushmoor, where 52 percent of the population is female.
“My goal is to inspire young girls and pave the way for more inclusive and representative leadership,” Cllr Makunura declared. Her appointment is not just a personal achievement but also a beacon of hope and progress for many, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Cllr Makunura’s journey to this historic role began in Zimbabwe, where she attended Chikonohono Primary School and Nemakonde Secondary School. She moved to the UK in 1997 to join her husband after their marriage in 1996. Her political career took a significant step forward in 2018 when she became the first African-descended individual to be elected as a councilor in Rushmoor, Hampshire.
Her ascent to the mayoral position is a testament to her dedication and the growing recognition of the importance of diverse representation in leadership roles. Cllr Makunura’s leadership is expected to drive meaningful change and foster a more inclusive environment within the council and the broader community.
In other news – Warriors coach Michael Nees names squad for AFCON qualifiers
Zimbabwe’s national football team, the Warriors, is gearing up for a crucial test in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers, with Coach Michael Nees unveiling his squad for the September fixtures. The Warriors are set to face Kenya in an away match at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda on September 6, before returning to the same venue four days later to host Cameroon.
The squad announcement has been met with excitement, particularly with the return of Warriors captain Marvelous Nakamba, who has been sidelined throughout the year due to an injury. Read More
