Bellinda Chinowawa Appointed ZLHR Executive Director Amid Rising Human Rights Concerns

HARARE – Seasoned human rights lawyer Bellinda Chinowawa has been appointed Executive Director of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), effective March 1, 2026. The appointment comes at a time when rights groups say Zimbabwe is facing mounting challenges around civic freedoms, governance, and access to justice.

In a statement, ZLHR said Chinowawa brings more than 16 years of experience in human rights advocacy, gender equality, and democratic governance.

“She has led initiatives across local civil society and international development organisations advancing justice sector reform, civic space, and citizen participation,” the organisation said.

Chinowawa holds advanced law degrees from the University of Oxford and Columbia Law School, credentials that have underpinned her career in rights-based programming and institutional reform.

Before her appointment, Chinowawa served as Access to Justice Manager at ZLHR. She has also held roles as a Democracy and Governance Specialist at USAID and as a Political Officer at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. Her work has focused on strengthening legal systems, promoting accountability, and expanding access to justice for vulnerable communities.

ZLHR Board Chairperson Rudo Magundani said the organisation is confident in Chinowawa’s leadership at a critical moment for the country.

“We are delighted to welcome Bellinda Chinowawa and her ambition for what ZLHR can achieve… at such a crucial and critical time in Zimbabwe,” Magundani said.

In her acceptance remarks, Chinowawa said she is committed to strengthening the organisation’s mandate and building on its legacy.

“I am humbled and honoured to take up this enormously important role at ZLHR… as we continue to strengthen ZLHR’s mission of fostering a culture of human rights in Zimbabwe,” she said.

Her appointment comes amid growing concern from civil society organisations over pressures on human rights, including restrictions on civic space and ongoing debates around constitutional reforms. Legal analysts say ZLHR’s role will be pivotal in defending constitutional rights, supporting public interest litigation, and ensuring accountability within state institutions.

With a strong background in both local and international governance frameworks, Chinowawa is expected to steer ZLHR through a complex legal and political environment while expanding its impact in promoting justice and human rights.

Bellinda Chinowawa Appointed ZLHR Executive Director