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ZIMBABWEAN author, Abel Mavura, has been honoured as a gender champion for his contribution to ending violence against women.
Mavura, who is also a social justice advocate and development practitioner, was honoured by Shamwari YeMwanasikana, in partnership with the Canadian Embassy.
He said the honour shows that his efforts are being recognised and valued.
Mavura released his third book titled “Never A Last Episode.”
“It’s really an honour to be recognised for the work you do passionately without expecting monetary returns.
“It motivates and encourages one to continue doing the work knowing that your efforts are not in vain, but you are making an impact.
“I always tell people that they should work for a cause not for applause.
“That’s the nature of social, humanitarian and community development work.”
Mavura hailed the idea of honouring men in championing gender issues.
“The idea of honouring male champions who have done extremely well, in making a difference in creating safe spaces for women and girls, is brilliant.
“Engaging men in the fight against gender imbalances is very critical because it creates a generation of men who are change makers and transformers in our communities.
“Men are always seen as the perpetrators of GBV, and trying to empower the girl child, and fight GBV without involvement of men, doesn’t yield tangible results.
“Men should be at the forefront as active agents of change and community influencers.”
The young writer founded a youth and women focused Non-Governmental Organisation, Marvel Act Youth Organisation of Zimbabwe (MAYO).
“We are committed to disrupting and ending all forms of violence against women and girls and other harmful practices.
“During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, MAYO is encouraging everyone to get involved, from amplifying voices of survivors and activists in supporting women’s organisations and strengthening feminist movements.”
Speaking at the same event, Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Christina Buchan urged more men to actively participate in the fight against GBV.
“We are hoping to see more men actively participating in the conversations since this is not a conversation reserved for women only.
“It is important that men talk to each other and agree that GBV is not acceptable on any level.
“We are happy to partner with SYS to celebrate these 16 men today as they continue to champion for a safe environment for women and girls,” said Ambassador Buchan.
The 16 men honoured as role models include Dr Lamiel Phiri (NANGO board chair), Dr Evans Sagomba (UZ academic research), Advocate Rodney Mutombo (Women Excel Trust), Emmanuel Manyati (Better Life Foundation), Farai Makoni (Epworth RDC), Raymond Mazhambe (Southern African AIDS Trust, Abel Mavura (MutokoCommunity), Alois Nyamazana (Fathers Against Abuse), Wessley Nyabanga (Youth Aspire Development Trust), Nakai Nengomasha (MenEngage), Tungamirai Zimonte (Youth Against Alcoholism and Drug Dependency), Tatenda Songore (Youth Advocacy Zimbabwe), Clifton Dawanyi (Education Coalition of Zimbabwe), David Gava, 13 (Men and Boys Forum) , Michael Gwarisa (Health Times) and Mathew Masinge (H-Metro).
Online Reporter