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Investing in Community-Based Leaders: A Foundation for Change

Investing in Community-Based Leaders: A Foundation for Change

Empowered leadership is at the heart of thriving communities. Through the Enhancing Citizen Participation in Local Governance (ECP) project from 2019 to 2022, local leaders and organizations are being equipped to bridge the gap between residents and local authorities.

Since 2019, this initiative has been a cornerstone of fostering transparency, accountability, and collaborative problem-solving in Gweru.

Thanks to GRRA’s conflict management and transformation workshops, policy dialogue meetings, and training on peacebuilding, community-based leaders are now better prepared to facilitate citizen engagement, mediate disputes, and build stronger relationships.

These efforts are cultivating a network of capable leaders, including councillors, council management officials, and religious leaders, who are transforming their communities one dialogue at a time.

Ward 13 Councillor Catherine Mhondiwa highlighted the tangible impact of these initiatives.

“Through the Conflict Transformation and Management Workshop, GRRA has provided technical advisory support to enhance the capacity of councillors, council management, and community organisations to perform their duties effectively,” she said.

She emphasized how GRRA’s efforts complement formal dispute resolution processes by promoting local peacebuilding mechanisms through partnerships with other community-based organizations and religious leaders.

“It’s encouraging to see GRRA strengthening the capacity of leaders. This has enabled us to build stronger relationships with residents and key stakeholders,” she added.

One key outcome of GRRA’s work has been the transformation of leadership practices. As Councillor Mhondiwa observed, “As grassroots leaders, we have unlearned old practices and embraced the concept of participation. This has helped us adapt to modern, inclusive approaches to governance.”

By fostering collaboration and creating spaces for dialogue, GRRA is addressing long-standing disconnections between residents and local authorities.

Community leaders now act as conduits for meaningful engagement, enabling residents’ voices to be heard while promoting a culture of trust and accountability.

The ECP program continues to inspire sustainable change. By empowering community-based leaders with tools, knowledge, and networks, GRRA is laying the groundwork for more inclusive, peaceful, and resilient communities.

These efforts not only resolve conflicts but also build a foundation for long-term development rooted in shared responsibility and mutual respect.

Through initiatives like these, the future of Gweru’s communities looks brighter, with leadership that truly represents and serves its people.

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