The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo has made a significant stride in gender empowerment by launching an all-female CID crack team named after Queen Lozikheyi Dlodlo. This initiative aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s economic policies aimed at empowering the girl child and his calls to honor the heroes and heroines of both the First and Second Chimurenga/Umvukela. Queen Dlodlo, a senior queen of King Lobengula and a leader in the 1896 Ndebele uprising against British colonial rule, is a fitting namesake for this pioneering team.
Naming the ZRP crack team after Queen Lozikheyi Dlodlo pays tribute to her legacy and bravery. She symbolizes resistance against oppression and championing her people’s rights, qualities that perfectly align with the values and mission of the police crack teams. This move honors her memory and embodies the spirit of her struggles, making the team a powerful symbol of national pride and heritage. It also serves to inspire future generations to emulate her courage and dedication to the nation.
The establishment of an all-female CID unit within the Zimbabwe Republic Police marks a significant step towards empowering women and promoting gender equality. It offers opportunities for women to take on leadership roles and challenges traditional gender stereotypes in law enforcement. This positive development recognizes the value and capabilities of women in law enforcement, providing a role model for young girls and women, encouraging them to pursue careers in male-dominated fields, and bringing unique perspectives and approaches to crime investigation and resolution.
Additionally, this move enhances the police force’s ability to address gender-based crimes and support survivors of gender-based violence, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse police force that better represents the community it serves. By choosing a female historical figure, the ZRP is promoting gender equality and celebrating women’s contributions to Zimbabwe’s history and development. Queen Lozikheyi Dlodlo’s story serves as an inspiration for young girls and women, showcasing their potential to excel in various fields, including leadership and law enforcement.
Team Lozikheyi has already demonstrated its effectiveness, solving several high-profile cases in a short period, including the apprehension of serial rapist Prosper Bhule, who was sentenced to 232 years in prison, and the arrest of two suspects, Jonathan Mkwebu and Brilliant Mkosana, for illegal possession of ivory.
Overall, the establishment of this all-female unit highlights ZRP’s efforts to promote gender equality and empower female officers, creating a more inclusive and diverse police force. The naming of the unit as Team Lozikheyi aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of honoring the history of Zimbabwe’s forebearers. This decision by the ZRP is a deliberate effort to promote gender inclusivity and challenge traditional gender stereotypes, supporting the President’s initiative to empower the girl child.
