In celebration of CLGF’s 30th Anniversary, we are honoured to spotlight the inspiring stories of 30 trailblazing women in local government from across the Commonwealth, all members of the Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network. These interviews celebrate their groundbreaking contributions to gender equality and their transformative impact on building inclusive, empowered communities.

Cllr Nozipho Dlamini-Gamedze (Eswatini)  

Councillor Nozipho Dlamini-Gamedze is the deputy Mayor, City of Manzini in Eswatini where she   represents Ward 11. She previously served as Mayor of Manzini (2023–2024). Her leadership is marked by integrity, strategic thinking, and a strong dedication to community engagement. Over the past three decades, the role of women in local government has gradually evolved. While progress has not been as rapid as many would hope this shift reflects a growing recognition that women bring valuable perspectives to governance, particularly on matters affecting families, communities, and social development. Her journey into local government was driven by a strong desire to serve my community and contribute to improving the lives of ordinary citizens. She stressed that accelerating gender equality in local government requires sustained investment in leadership development programmes, mentorship opportunities, and policies that actively encourage and support women’s participation in political leadership and decision-making

Read her full interview here 

Hon. Sih Marie Zenobia (Cameroon)

Hon. Sih Marie Zenobia is Deputy Mayor of Wum Council in Cameroon a role she has held since 2020, following over a decade of service as a councilor. With more than 30 years of experience in political and community leadership, she has played a key role in representing community interests, shaping local policy, and promoting inclusive development. Alongside her political leadership, she serves as Divisional Delegate of Arts and Culture, where she champions cultural heritage, community engagement, and local development initiatives. Her earlier career as a government teacher reflects her strong foundation in education and community service. She works actively to encourage women to participate in governance. Being visible and active in leadership, is an important message to show other women that it is possible.

Read her full interview here 

Cllr Lis Burnett (Wales)

Lis Burnett is Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Llwydd (Presiding Member) of the Welsh Local Government Association. Over the past fourteen years she has held the Cabinet portfolios for Finance, Education, Regeneration, Planning, Economic Development and Transport. Formerly Head of Social Entrepreneurship at the University of South Wales, Lis has also acted as an advisor to the Welsh Government and the former Welsh Assembly on Social Enterprise and Cooperatives.  Like many others, her ambition on entering local government was to contribute to change rather than to just be a politician. She has since been able to influence the provision of good quality, low-carbon homes, career opportunities for women and the development of new schools across the county.

Read her full interview here 

CLGF 30th Anniversary Commemoration

The Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network (ComWLG) is championing women leaders from all corners of the Commonwealth. You can also view the full set of interviews on the 30 for 30 page

We are active across social media, and we have a dedicated Facebook page where you can network with others interested in women in leadership and women’s political empowerment.