A Zimbabwean grassroots community development leader has been appointed to a continental leadership role, a move expected to strengthen women-led community development initiatives across Africa.

Gloria Makovere was appointed Head of Community Development Committees (CDCs) for the Women's Sector in Africa under the Informal Economy Development Forum (IEDF), with the appointment taking effect on July 9, 2026.

The appointment comes as African countries continue to place greater emphasis on community-driven development models that empower women through entrepreneurship, leadership and skills development.

Speaking to ZimNow, Makovere said the appointment recognised years of grassroots work dedicated to improving the lives of women and communities.

"I believe this appointment is a recognition of the work I have consistently been doing over the past five years to empower women through leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills and community transformation.

"Through Munhu weMudzimai, we have built a movement that inspires women not just to seek opportunities, but to become founders, innovators, employers and leaders who create lasting impact in their communities.

"Beyond MMT, my work has focused on equipping women with practical skills, building confidence and creating platforms where they can grow economically and socially," she said.

Makovere said she viewed the appointment as an opportunity to extend successful community development initiatives beyond Zimbabwe.

"I think this promotion reflects the trust that the IEDF leadership has in my ability to scale that impact across Africa. To me, this is not simply a personal achievement; it is an affirmation that consistent grassroots work matters. It shows that when you invest in people, build sustainable initiatives and remain committed to a clear vision, your work can open doors to influence at a continental level.

"I receive this appointment with gratitude, humility and a renewed sense of responsibility to serve women across Africa," she said.

In her new role, Makovere will oversee the establishment and strengthening of Community Development Committees across different African countries, providing mentorship, leadership support and guidance to ensure the structures remain sustainable and responsive to community needs.

"My primary responsibility is to support women across different African countries in establishing and strengthening their Community Development Committees.

"This includes providing guidance on setting up effective CDCs, mentoring leaders, monitoring progress and ensuring that each committee remains active, sustainable and focused on improving the lives of women in their communities.

"Beyond oversight, I see this role as an opportunity to build a strong network of women-led community structures that drive economic empowerment, skills development, entrepreneurship and social transformation. I want to help women move from identifying challenges to implementing practical, sustainable solutions that create jobs, improve livelihoods and strengthen local economies," she said.

She said her long-term vision is to see women leading community transformation through locally driven initiatives.

"My hope is to see thriving CDCs across Africa that become models of community-led development, where women are not just beneficiaries of change but the architects of it. Drawing from my experience with Munhu weMudzimai, I believe that when women are equipped, connected and empowered to lead, they can transform families, communities and ultimately the continent," she said.

Makovere added that the continental role aligns with the mission she has pursued through Munhu weMudzimai and other community development programmes.

"This appointment is a natural extension of the work I have already been doing through Munhu weMudzimai and my other community development initiatives. My vision has always been to see women move beyond survival and become leaders, entrepreneurs, employers and agents of transformation in their own communities.

"This role also aligns with my belief that lasting development begins at the grassroots. When women are organised, equipped and supported, they don't just improve their own lives; they uplift families, strengthen communities and contribute to national and continental development. I am excited to work with women across Africa to build CDCs that create measurable, lasting impact for generations to come," she said.

Makovere described the appointment as both an honour and a responsibility.

"I am grateful and humbled to have been recognised by the Informal Economy Development Forum as Head of the CDC Women Sector for Africa. It strengthens my commitment to empowering women, supporting entrepreneurs and helping build stronger communities across Africa. This achievement belongs to all of us who believe in the power of women to create, lead and transform," she said.