Gwaunza breaks glass ceiling as Zimbabwe’s first female Chief Justice

Justice Elizabeth Chiedza Gwaunza has been appointed Zimbabwe’s first female Chief Justice, making history 46 years after independence.

The 73-year-old, who has served as Deputy Chief Justice since March 2018, takes office on May 15, 2026, succeeding Chief Justice Luke Malaba, who left officie today after reaching his retirement age.

Gwaunza was one of the first two black female law graduates in Zimbabwe.

This story is for NewsDay subscribers.