BY STAFF REPORTER 

The atmosphere inside the conference hall was electric, charged with the collective aspirations of workers from every corner of Zimbabwe. For months, anticipation had built toward this moment: the 10th General Conference of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU). Held on 31 October 2026, the gathering marked the final lap following regional, young workers', and women's committee congresses that were held prior.

The high-profile event was graced by distinguished guests from COSATU, PSI, trade unions from Botswana and Zambia, civil society organizations (CSOs), and various other key stakeholders. More than a routine assembly, it was a defining crossroads for the nation's labour movement.

When the tally was finalized, a resounding cheer echoed through the auditorium. Valentine Chikosi, the outgoing 1^st Vice President from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority Trade Union (ZIMRATU), was officially declared the newly elected President of the ZCTU. In a hard-fought and closely watched electoral contest, Chikosi triumphed over former president Peter Mutasa, stepping in to succeed Florence Taruvinga, who chose not to seek re-election after serving a single term.

The conference brought together delegates and trade union leaders representing both formal and informal sectors to confront pressing economic realities, defend workers' rights, and chart a five-year roadmap (2026–2031) for social justice.

Standing at the podium to deliver his acceptance speech, President Chikosi was met with a standing ovation, immediately cast the spotlight away from personal victory and onto the collective struggle of the Zimbabwean workforce.

"It is not about me, but all workers of Zimbabwe, both in the formal and informal establishments," Chikosi declared to the attentive assembly. "Our core responsibility is to defend the rights and interests of workers, as well as to advance decent work."

Laying out his vision for the federation, Chikosi emphasized that unity would serve as the cornerstone of his administration. He stressed that the conference theme would act as an ideological compass and active programme of action, reminding delegates that solidarity is the ultimate source of workers' power.

"Unity leads to collective power, and it is time for rebuilding, repositioning, and re-establishing the ZCTU's dominance and independence," he stated.

In a magnanimous gesture, Chikosi paid tribute to his predecessors, Peter Mutasa and Florence Taruvinga, for their stewardship of the labour movement. With the electoral contest now concluded, he issued a passionate call to all affiliate unions and workers to put past differences behind them and march forward under a unified banner.

Closing his address with a promise of accountability and steadfast dedication, Chikosi set a high standard for his five-year tenure, he said; "I do not promise anything to you save for service and availability. I want to be judged by the change and impact we would have made after five years."

As the conference drew to a close, delegates departed Harare with a renewed sense of purpose. Under Chikosi’s leadership, alongside a newly minted presidium including 1st Vice President Cuthbert Chikwekwete (CWUZ), 2nd Vice President Douglas Chiradza (NEWUZ), and 3rd Vice President Enock Dongo (ZINA)—the ZCTU stands poised to write a bold new chapter in defence of Zimbabwean labour.

Secretary General  Tirivanhu Marimo was (elected 31/08/25) at an etxra ordinary conference while his deputies Nhamo Bepete (ZARWU) and Runesu Dzimiri (FFAWUZ) were elected during the conference.

The Treasurer General’s position was grabbed by Constantine Rutsate (ESWUZ) while the trio of        Austin Muswere (GAPWUZ), Fozert Mugabe (ZCATWU) and Enos Mwerenga (ZFTAWU) were deployed as Trustees.