Chitungwiza has often been defined by its challenges. Yet, the second quarter of 2026 has once again demonstrated that beneath those headlines lies a community rich in talent, resilience and excellence. From national leadership and international recognition to sporting, cultural and civic achievements, Chitungwiza continues to produce individuals who are proudly flying her flag high.
Long celebrated as Zimbabwe’s cultural powerhouse, Chitungwiza has nurtured some of the country’s greatest artistic talents, including Sungura maestro Alick Macheso, the late John “Mr Chitungwiza” Chibadura and the late Nicholas “Senior Lecturer” Zacharia. Today, the municipality’s legacy continues to evolve as it builds its identity as a Smart Heritage City by 2030, with excellence increasingly becoming its defining characteristic.
Addressing the 508th Ordinary Meeting of Council, Chitungwiza Mayor Her Worship Councillor Rosaria Mangoma said the recent achievements by residents reflect the town’s immense potential.
“These achievements remind us that Chitungwiza is a community of excellence, talent and limitless potential. Let us continue to support and celebrate those who raise our town’s flag high,” she said.
Young people have been at the forefront of rewriting Chitungwiza’s story.
One of the quarter’s proudest moments was the election of Tinashe Mugodhi, a student at St Mary’s High School, as Zimbabwe’s 2026 Child President. Mugodhi succeeded the 33rd Child President, Lionel Mazarire, and immediately used his platform to advocate for children’s rights.
During the 34th Junior Parliament Session, he called for the urgent integration of children returning from South Africa into Zimbabwe’s education system.
“I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that the children of returnees are prioritised and integrated into the schooling system as soon as possible. Every child has a right to education,” he said.
Further strengthening Chitungwiza’s representation in national youth leadership, former Chitungwiza Junior Councillors Jeremiah Matongorere and Jayden Chidavaenzi were selected to serve in the Junior Parliament Senate.
On the international stage, 26-year-old pharmacist Brunette Makanyiso added another milestone to the municipality’s growing list of success stories after being crowned Miss World Zimbabwe 2026. She is set to represent Zimbabwe at the 73rd Miss World pageant in Vietnam this September.
The daughter of Chitungwiza Municipality’s Seke South District Officer, Ms Faith Makanyiso, Brunette rose through the national pageantry ranks before capturing the coveted title at the Harare Hippodrome in Braeside.
Speaking after her victory, the graduate of Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University in Russia said:
“We have journeys that change your life; others allow you to change lives. I am deeply honoured to begin this new chapter as Miss World Zimbabwe.
“This crown is not just a title; it is a platform to serve, advocate and amplify a cause that is deeply meaningful to me. What started as a passion is now an opportunity to reach further, speak louder and create even greater impact.”
Chitungwiza also celebrated sporting excellence after promising footballer Leone Mukono, formerly of Zengeza Busters Football Academy, earned a place at Spanish football club Villarreal CF, marking another significant achievement for the municipality on the international stage.
The quarter also saw Chitungwiza residents receive prestigious professional honours. Langton Nyakwenda, a Zimpapers journalist and Chitungwiza resident, received the Southern Africa Best Sports Journalist Award, while Ward 1 Councillor George Chatanga was honoured with the Outstanding Councillor Award at the 2026 Dungwiza Community Trailblazers Awards.
The municipality itself was recognised for its commitment to good governance after receiving the Progressive Urban Governance Award at the 2026 Dungwiza Community Trailblazers Awards, which celebrate excellence across Chitungwiza and Mashonaland East Province.
These achievements are more than individual successes—they reflect the character of a community determined to rise above adversity. They demonstrate that Chitungwiza is not only producing outstanding artists, leaders, professionals and athletes but is also nurturing a new generation committed to excellence, innovation and service.
As the municipality advances towards its vision of becoming A Smart Heritage City by 2030, these inspiring stories serve as a powerful reminder that Chitungwiza’s greatest asset is its people. Their achievements continue to redefine the city’s image, proving that Chitungwiza is not merely a place known for its past, but a community confidently shaping Zimbabwe’s future through excellence.
