Lupane women lead the way in rural empowerment and inclusive leadership

Thembelihle Mhlanga

In a powerful demonstration of community-led inclusivity, the Rural Communities Empowerment Trust (RUCET) held an engagement event in Mqoqi, Shabula village, Sotani Ward, Lupane District, aimed at advancing women’s participation in leadership and local governance.

Funded by Hivos, the gathering during the weekend, marked a strategic push toward gender-responsive rural development.

The event brought together key stakeholders from Village Development Committees (VIDCOs), Community Care Workers, traditional leaders, and youth representatives, all united in the call for greater female participation in community decision-making.

Traditional authority Headman Somanyanga, born King Ngwenya, made a bold call to action:

“We are committed to ensuring that women are not only included but are active participants in our traditional systems. Their voices are vital for our community’s growth.”

His sentiments were echoed by Kusile RDC Proportional Representation Councillor Thulisani Nkomo, who urged women to seize leadership opportunities across sectors:

“Women should defy all odds and take up leadership positions, whether in church or at local development levels.”

RUCET’s Vumani Ndlovu highlighted the transformative potential of women’s leadership:

“It is essential for women to occupy local-level development positions as they are closer to the people. Their involvement can lead to transformative changes in our communities.”

Participants like Siwinile Nyoni emphasized the importance of unity and peer support:

“We must uplift one another and create a network of support. When women stand together, we can achieve so much more.”

The platform also amplified youth voices, with Priscilla Sibanda addressing the exclusion of young people in decision-making:

“Young people are often sidelined in crucial community discussions, which hampers their participation and growth.”
She challenged her peers to show initiative:
“If we want to be included, we must first show up and engage.”

As the event drew to a close, attendees reaffirmed their commitment to building an inclusive, gender-balanced future for Lupane. The takeaway was clear: empowerment begins with participation, and true development is only possible when women and youth are seen, heard, and supported.

In Lupane, the seeds of inclusive leadership are being sown—with women and youth at the forefront of change.