Tinotenda Hove – MASVINGO – Women in Masvingo Urban Ward 7 have stepped up efforts to drum up support for Tsungai Mandati, the only female candidate contesting in the upcoming by-election set for September 13.

The by-election follows the death of former councillor Tafara Masimba in July, leaving the ward seat vacant. Mandati, a well-known community mobilizer, is running against four male contenders in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested race.

Speaking during a campaign meeting in Rujeko, local residents expressed confidence that Mandati would bring meaningful change to the community.

“We need a leader who understands the daily struggles of women and families in this ward. Tsungai has been there for us during hard times. That is why we are fully behind her,” said a member of a local pressure group advocating for better service delivery.

Vendors in the area also voiced support for Mandati, saying they believe she will champion small business interests. One fruit vendor at Rujeko Market remarked: “Most of us are informal traders, and we need someone who will fight for better vending spaces and fair treatment. Tsungai has promised to prioritize that.”

A local hairdresser echoed similar sentiments: “As women, we want representation in council. For too long, decisions have been made without us. Tsungai’s victory would show that women can lead and deliver.”

Mandati’s campaign has focused on improving service delivery, creating opportunities for women and youth, and addressing long-standing issues such as poor roads and inadequate water supply in Rujeko.

Mandati is seeking to break the long-standing male dominance in Ward 7 politics by becoming the first woman to hold the council seat in years.