Zimbabwe Appoints First Woman Chief Justice

Zimbabwe's judiciary reached a historic milestone when President Emmerson Mnangagwa appointed Elizabeth Gwaunza as the country's first female Chief Justice, effective May 15, 2026.

Justice Gwaunza brings extensive experience to the role, having served as Deputy Chief Justice since March 2018. Her promotion fills the position left by retiring Chief Justice Luke Malaba, who stepped down at age 75 in accordance with constitutional requirements.

The appointment came through an official statement from Chief Secretary Martin Rushwaya, who praised Gwaunza's qualifications and judicial track record. "Honourable Mrs Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza is qualified for appointment, having served as the Deputy Chief Justice since 29 March 2018 and possessing extensive judicial experience," he said.

Gwaunza's elevation represents more than just a procedural succession. She now joins a small but growing number of women leading supreme courts across Africa, helping reshape what leadership looks like in one of the continent's most traditionally male-dominated fields.

Alongside Gwaunza's historic appointment, President Mnangagwa named Constitutional Court Judge Paddington Garwe as the new Deputy Chief Justice. Garwe has served on the Constitutional Court since May 2021 and brings his own distinguished record to the role.

The Ripple Effect

Gwaunza's appointment sends a powerful message to aspiring female lawyers and judges across Zimbabwe and beyond. When women occupy the highest judicial offices, they don't just make decisions—they expand possibilities for the next generation of legal professionals.

Her rise through Zimbabwe's judicial ranks demonstrates that persistence and excellence eventually break through even the most established barriers. From deputy to chief, Gwaunza's career path now serves as a roadmap for others.

The timing matters too. As African nations continue strengthening their democratic institutions, diverse leadership at the highest levels of justice systems helps build public trust and ensures courts reflect the communities they serve.

Zimbabwe's highest court now has a leader who has already proven herself capable of handling the role's demands, and whose appointment makes history simply by her presence.