Online Reporter
Rutendo Mapfumo
THE Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland North Province, Ms Sithandazile Ncube, has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women, despite Government efforts to promote their rights.
Speaking on Ms Ncube’s behalf during the belated provincial International Women’s Day commemorations held recently at Lukosi Secondary School in Hwange District, Mr Simbarashe Kayela, the acting District Development Co-ordinator, emphasised that women and girls continue to encounter significant barriers in achieving their full potential.
“To date, women and girls still face considerable obstacles. They are often marginalised, excluded, and silenced due to certain laws, policies and societal norms,” she stated, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
The Government has introduced a range of initiatives aimed at empowering women and addressing issues such as extreme poverty, hunger and malnutrition.
These initiatives include training programmes for women and girls in producing reusable sanitary wear and climate-smart agriculture. The latter is particularly important as it helps mitigate the effects of climate change, easing the burdens faced by women and girls in tasks such as collecting firewood and water.
Ms Ncube reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to prioritising women’s rights, equality and empowerment.
“This comprehensive and inclusive approach seeks to address the intersecting issues of gender, race, class, disability and other forms of marginalisation, ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind,” she said.
The International Women’s Day commemorations were hosted by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development.
This year’s theme, “All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” calls on both society and Government to tackle the inequalities that persist.
Alongside discussions, the event featured various activities designed to raise awareness about women’s rights and celebrate their achievements within the community. Local leaders, activists, and representatives from organisations dedicated to women’s empowerment were among those in attendance.
“As the Government continues to promote initiatives for women’s rights, it is clear that more work is needed to dismantle the barriers that hinder progress. The voices of women and girls must be amplified, and their rights must be upheld to foster a more equitable society for all,” said Ms Ncube.
