CANADIAN AMBASSADOR APPOINTED CO-CHAIRPERSON OF ‘HEFORSHE’ INITIATIVE

Anotida Chonzi

CANADIAN Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Adler Aristilde, has been appointed new co-chairperson of the ‘HeForShe’ initiative which promotes gender equality.

Speaking during a march for the end to gender-based violence in Harare yesterday, Ambassador Aristilde said his appointment was a significant milestone in promoting gender equality in Zimbabwe.

He said it also coincides with Canada’s feminist foreign and international assistance policies, which recognise the central role of gender equality.

“I will seek to engage those with decision-making authority and actively promote equality and empowerment of women and girls.

‘’I see the role of ‘HeForShe’ coaching as an opportunity for Canada to rally more support for the advancement of gender equality in Zimbabwe,” said Ambassador Aristilde.

The ambassador said “HeForShe” is an invitation for men to stand in solidarity with women .

“HeForShe is an invitation for men to stand in solidarity with women to create a united force for gender equality and to end gender-based violence,” he said. Ambassador Aristilde pledged to use his term to drive change, particularly in areas such as promoting girls’ education as a fundamental right and a key driver of gender equality.

“I will make it a priority to mobilise other men across sectors in support of this cause.”

Over two million men have engaged worldwide with the “HeForShe” movement.