Wezhira Munya
On 12th December 2025, Masvingo City Council honored three opposition councillors and one Zanu PF councillor by bestowing upon them the prestigious status of Alderman. This event marks a significant milestone for the council, which is currently comprised of 17 councillors. The first individual to receive the title of Alderman in Masvingo was inducted in 1964, with the late councillor Zwawaira being noted as the first black Alderman in the city’s history.
The conferral of Alderman status was officiated by Masvingo City Town Clerk Engineer Edward Mukaratirwa during a ceremony held at the Civic Center Town Hall from 10 AM to 1 PM. The recipients included former councillors Babylon Beta, Richard Musekiwa, and Daniel Mberikunashe, all from the opposition, as well as Zanu PF’s Against Chiteme.
During the ceremony, Masvingo City Mayor Alec Tabe emphasized the significance of the Alderman title, stating, “Alderman status is bestowed upon councillors who have served for a decade. This is one of the highest honors awarded to those who have distinguished themselves in public service after two terms as ward councillors.”
The profiles of the newly inducted Aldermen reveal their long-standing commitment to public service. Deputy Mayor Daniel Mberikunashe, representing Ward 5, was born on August 10, 1962, in Gutu. He is married and has seven children. Mberikunashe was first elected as a councillor in 2013 and has been re-elected multiple times, despite facing a recall in 2021. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Audit Committee. Expressing his gratitude after receiving the Alderman title, deputy mayor Mberikunashe stated, “I am humbled by the trust placed in me by President Nelson Chamisa and the residents of Ward 5.”
Councillor Babylon Beta, born on February 7, 1952, in Chivi District, has a wealth of experience as an insurance broker and entered local politics in 2013. He served as the Chairman of the Finance and General Purposes Committee during his tenure, dedicating a decade to Ward 9. Upon receiving his Alderman title, Beta reflected on his service, saying, “I want to thank the late President Morgan Tsvangirai and President Nelson Chamisa for their support. It has been my privilege to serve the residents of Ward 9 to the best of my ability.”
Alderman councillor Richard Musekiwa, born on July 7, 1981, in Chegutu, is now the youngest Alderman in Masvingo. Married with six children, he has also had a fruitful political career since being elected in 2013. Musekiwa currently chairs the Public Works and Planning Committee and expressed his gratitude as well: “I am honored to serve for 15 years as a councillor. I want to thank both President Nelson Chamisa and the residents of Ward 8 for their continuous support.”
Lastly, alderman Against Chiteme, born on May 13, 1978, in Bikita, has served as a councillor since 2013, with re-elections occurring in 2018. He has actively participated in various council committees, including as Chairperson of the Audit Committee.
The ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including former councillors and Aldermen Serina Maridza, Tsere and Pedzisai, councillors Rocky Kamuzondo, Vembo and Mafamba, as well as current councillors Alaika Time, Esther Zishiri, Manyanga, Ben Hwata, and Ruwa Mayor Mike Mataruka and Masvingo United Residents Association board Chairperson Mr Thomas Mbetu. The event highlighted the contributions of the newly honored Aldermen and their ongoing dedication to serving the people of Masvingo.
