Wezhira Munya
Councillor Bruce Mmeli Moyo, representing Ward 22 in Nkulumane, Bulawayo, has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Best Policy Maker Award for Youth Development and Empowerment. This accolade not only highlights his significant contributions to local governance but also underscores his unwavering commitment to empowering Bulawayo citizens and beyond.
Councillor Moyo joins former opposition Member of Parliament honourable Advocate Fadzayi Mahere and current Chiredzi Central opposition Member of Parliament Honourable Ropafadzo Makumire in receiving the 2025 Best Awards from various organizations.
In this year (2025), Councillor Moyo received numerous accolades, including one awarded in the United States, further solidifying his reputation as a progressive leader. He is a Mandela Washington Fellow and holds a Public Management qualification from the University of Minnesota, USA, along with various academic qualifications obtained in Zimbabwe. These achievements reflect his dedication to professional development and effective governance.
Councillor Moyo is also a courageous human rights activist who has faced challenges in his pursuit of justice. He has been arrested and detained at Khami Prison, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly youth. His experiences only enhance his credibility and determination to fight for social justice.
As the youngest councillor in Bulawayo, Moyo was elected in 2023 under the leadership of President Nelson Chamisa. Since his election, he has become a vocal advocate for youth issues, championing initiatives aimed at increasing youth employment opportunities, ensuring access to free primary education, and making secondary and tertiary education affordable. He has also been a staunch supporter of initiatives that provide free sanitary products, addressing essential health and wellness needs.
Councillor Moyo’s advocacy roots can be traced back to his days as a student leader with the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU), where he fought for the rights of university and college students. His leadership in this capacity has laid the groundwork for his current role in local government, allowing him to continue his fight for youth empowerment.
Upon receiving the award, Councillor Moyo expressed his gratitude and shared his vision for the future. “I am truly humbled and deeply honored to receive the Best Policy Maker Award for Youth Development and Empowerment in Bulawayo,” he stated. He emphasized that this recognition is not merely a personal milestone; it represents the collective effort to place young people at the center of policy-making and development.
He also took a moment to acknowledge the work of PRACA and its partners for organizing an awards ceremony that honors transformative leadership across various sectors. “My sincere appreciation goes to PRACA and its partners for curating such a meaningful awards ceremony that celebrates impact, service, and transformative leadership across all walks of life,” he remarked.
Councillor Moyo concluded with a call to action, asserting that the award reinforces the need for practical initiatives that empower young people. “This award strengthens our resolve to move beyond rhetoric and pursue bold, practical action that empowers young people in Zimbabwe and beyond. Young people are not merely leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today, and investing in them is an investment in the future of our nation.”
Councillor Bruce Mmeli Moyo’s recognition as a leading policy-maker serves as an inspiration for young leaders and activists, demonstrating the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities. His work continues to pave the way for a brighter future for the youth of Bulawayo and beyond.
