Sunday, December 05, 2010

Zimbabwe Deputy Commissioner-General Mandizha a Superwoman

‘DCG Mandizha a superwoman’

Sunday Mail Reporter

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER-GENERAL (DCG) Levi Sibanda has implored Zimbabweans to emulate late police chief Barbara Mandizha’s role in strengthening family and work relations.

Speaking at a memorial service for his late colleague at the Mandizha family home in Harare’s Borrowdale suburb yesterday, DCG Sibanda described her as a “superwoman” who worked hard to create a crime-free environment.

“She was motherly to her juniors and seniors. Hence, to all, she was a superwoman who loved both her job and family,” he said.

“Her role in the police force was of great significance. The void she has left can never be filled both at work and at home.”

Speaking at the same occasion, her brother, Mr Last Gakanje, said she was like a “father” to him and the family. Her mother-in-law, Mrs Chipo Mandizha, described her as a unifying and non-discriminating person who resolved family issues amicably.

Present at the service were junior and senior police officers, relatives and friends. Deputy Commissioner-General Mandizha died on November 12 after battling with cancer.

She was laid to rest at her Seke rural home.

She was attested into the Zimbabwe Republic Police in 1980 as a patrol officer and was later posted to Chinhoyi where she covered traffic inquiries and dockets.

In 1983, she was promoted to the rank of section officer. Six years later, she was promoted to inspector, becoming officer-in-charge at Mabvuku Police Station.

Her dedication to duty saw her again promoted to superintendent in 1994. She was also appointed Zimbabwe’s Justice of Peace.

DCG Mandizha assumed duties of superintendent (crime) and was promoted to chief superintendent in 1999. Her elevation was historic as she became the first female officer to command the Support Unit District.

She became Commandant of Morris Depot in 2003; Deputy Commissioner (responsible for Human Resources) in 2005 and Deputy Commissioner-General (Human Resources) in 2008.

She was later transferred to Deputy Commissioner-General (Crime), a post she held until the time of her death.

She was also the recipient of several awards and medals.

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