Chewe Munkonge is poised to take on the role of Lord Mayor of Oxford, marking a historic milestone as the first individual from a Black background to occupy this ceremonial position.

The Labour councillor representing Quarry and Risinghurst will undertake numerous civic duties throughout 2026/27, including officiating at Oxford’s Remembrance ceremony, visiting schools, and attending charitable functions.

Susan Brown, who leads Oxford City Council, shared this information during Monday evening’s full council gathering.

Also confirmed was Louise Upton’s appointment as deputy Lord Mayor, while Linda Smith will serve as Oxford’s Sheriff for 2026/27.

Both Mr Munkonge and Ms Upton must secure re-election in May before assuming these civic positions.

Having served the Quarry and Risinghurst ward for eleven years, Mr Munkonge expressed his profound gratitude at being selected. He noted that after more than a decade representing local residents, this appointment holds significant personal and civic meaning. As Oxford’s inaugural Black Lord Mayor, he acknowledged standing on the achievements of those who came before him and aspires to motivate future generations. He described Oxford as a city rich in heritage, variety and prospects, stating his pride in serving a community that consistently motivates and sets standards. He indicated his intention to advocate for neighbourhoods, assist charitable organisations, and represent the city with commitment and honesty during the year ahead.

Mr Munkonge spent his childhood in Zambia before relocating to Britain in 2003. He subsequently moved to Oxford in 2008 to join his wife. He obtained a Master of Business Administration from Oxford Brookes University in 2012 and is currently employed as an administrative officer for a charity based in Oxford.

For his Lord Mayoral tenure in 2026/27, Mr Munkonge has selected Sobell House and St Theresa as his designated charitable causes.

The trio of councillors will formally take their oaths at the traditional mayor-making ceremony held at Oxford Town Hall in May. During this event, Ms Upton, the departing mayor, will formally relinquish her position and present the chains of office to Mr Munkonge. The Carfax Tower bells will subsequently be sounded by the Oxford Society of Change Ringers to mark the occasion.

The Lord Mayor typically fulfils over three hundred engagements annually, encompassing everything from Royal visits to gatherings with community organisations and charitable activities.

Oxford’s earliest documented mayor was Laurence Kepeharme, serving between 1205 and 1209. The line of mayors continued uninterrupted until 1962, when the Queen conferred the title of Lord Mayor upon Oxford.