Moving up in the world of politics, Councillor Govindammal “Dolly” Govender has gone from being a chain store manager, to deputy mayor, to acting mayor and as of Thursday this week she was elected as the first Lady Mayor of KwaDukuza municipality.
A first for the region, the newly-appointed mayor stepped into her position as acting mayor in June of 2019 when outgoing mayor Ricardo Mthembu tendered his resignation to pursue a promotion in provincial legislature.
Mthembu was one of 44 ANC MPLs to take a seat in the provincial legislature after national and general elections.
Tragically, Methembu died of Covid-19 earlier this year.
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Govender was due to fill the role of mayor in an acting capacity until a suitable candidate would be found however, it seems that the affectionately known as ‘Iron Lady’ is set to rule.
“Her ability to socialise and interact with people from various backgrounds plays a huge role in her decision-making particularly on socio-economic issues affecting the communities,” said municipal spokesperson, Sipho Mkhize.
Govender has a diploma in marketing and has more than 22 years’ worth of experience in retail management.
Born in KwaDukuza, she attended Stanger Secondary.
After her marketing studies Govender worked in the wholesale and retail sector, climbing the ranks until she was promoted to manager at BeeGees Chain Stores, now known as Retail Apparel Group, a position she held for 22 years.
Her other career highlights include:
– Serving as the ANC branch secretary of Ward 19 for 11 years
– Member of the Stanger Hospital board of directors
– Member of the Ward 19 Community Policing Forum
– And, serving as a member of the ANC Women’s League Regional Executive Committee
