By Own Correspondent

 The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has expressed profound sorrow following the death of its former First Vice President, Ms. Sithokozile Siwela, who passed away on 28 June 2026.

In a condolence message released on Monday, ZCTU described Siwela as a fearless trade unionist, a pioneer for women in industry, and an inspirational leader whose life was dedicated to defending workers' rights and advancing gender equality.

Born on 4 April 1971, Ms. Siwela was the fourth-born in a family of six children. From an early age, she displayed exceptional leadership qualities, serving as a prefect throughout her primary school years and later becoming a prefect and Girls' Guide leader in high school.

After completing her education, Siwela joined the Edgars Group of Companies as a stock clerk, where she rose to the position of trainee store manageress. Despite a promising career in retail, she chose a different path by pursuing an apprenticeship as a turner machinist, a profession traditionally dominated by men.

She completed her apprenticeship between 1995 and 1999, at a time when only two women were among 48 apprentices. She later joined the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) as an artisan, becoming one of only four female artisans among approximately 1,000 artisans employed by the company. Despite facing discrimination and scepticism from male colleagues, Siwela earned their respect through her competence, resilience and determination.

Her passion for workers' rights emerged during her apprenticeship in 1998 when she attended union meetings despite not yet qualifying for membership. Once eligible, she joined the Railways Artisans Union (RAU), where her leadership qualities quickly became evident.

Within a short period, she rose through the union ranks, serving as Branch Vice Secretary before being elected RAU Women's Desk Vice Chairperson in 2001. In the same year, she was elected to the ZCTU Southern Regional Women's Advisory Council, marking the beginning of a distinguished leadership journey within Zimbabwe's labour movement.

The ZCTU said Ms. Siwela dedicated her life to championing workers' rights, promoting women's participation in leadership, and inspiring young women to pursue careers in technical and industrial fields traditionally reserved for men.

Her passing represents a significant loss to Zimbabwe's labour movement, where she will be remembered as a courageous leader, a dedicated trade unionist, and a tireless advocate for social justice and gender equality.

The ZCTU extended its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and the entire labour movement during this difficult time, honouring her enduring legacy of service and commitment to the welfare of Zimbabwean workers.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.