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Lovemore Kadzura Rusape Correspondent
The Local Government Board has appointed Mr Solomon Gabaza as the substantive Rusape Town Council secretary following a gruelling selection process. Mr Gabaza (47) has been the front runner for the job after the departure of former secretary, Mr Joshua Maligwa, who joined Mutare City Council in April as its town clerk.

Former Mvurwi and Chinhoyi town clerk, Mr Mungororo Mazai and Chitungwiza audit manager, Mr Jimmy Chiundura were the other candidates interviewed by the board. Mr Gabaza, who was the town treasurer, was unanimously endorsed by the nine councillors present at a special full council meeting held this week. The letter from the Local Government Board was not debated, as the councillors said they were in full agreement with the appointment.

Mr Gabaza has been with Rusape council for the past seven years during which he helsd key positions such as administration officer, treasurer and acting town secretary. Before joining Rusape, Mr Gabaza worked as a teacher, auditor at the then Auditor and Comptroller-General’s office, OK Zimbabwe and Spar Zimbabwe. He holds various qualifications such as BComm Accounting, Masters of Business Administration and is still furthering his education. Mr Gabaza is also a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Rusape Town Council chairman Alderman Amon Chawasarira said they were happy that the candidate they had placed first during interviews was appointed. He said Mr Gabaza was a dynamic team builder and a strategic administrator, who can propel Rusape to greater heights.

“We are relieved that the ministry and the board concurred with us that Gabaza is the best person to lead this town, said Ald Chawasarira.
“We have full confidence that he can take this town to the next level because he has qualities of a competent leader. In the past we used to get secretaries from other towns, but this time we have a home grown person. We hope he will use his experience and knowledge of Rusape to drive this town forward.

“He is an expert in finance and he demonstrated this well when he was the treasurer. He is a good communicator and we want him to help to maintain good relations with all our stakeholders. We call upon residents to rally behind him by paying their rates so that he has no challenges in delivering quality service.” Mr Gabaza said he was humbled to be given the opportunity to be at the helm of the town and would work extra hard to deliver. Rusape Residents Trust chairman Mr Martin Chaburumunda also welcomed the appointment of Mr Gabaza.