Gender Forum tackles climate change

Mutsawashe Mashandure

Herald Correspondent

The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) will host the National Gender Forum on September 13 in Gwanda, the commission’s chairperson, Mrs Margaret Mukahanana-Sanyangwe has said.

Speaking at a press conference, Mrs Mukahanana-Sangarwe said the forum will address the critical intersection between gender, environment, and climate change, and went on to emphasise the need to urgently address climate change’s impact on gender inequalities.

“Climate change exacerbates gender inequalities, disrupts livelihoods and aggravates water and energy challenges,” she said.

The forum will build upon discussions made in the nine Provincial Gender Forums to highlight region-specific gender issues.

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“Gwanda’s unique climate-related challenges make it a critical location for discussing gender, environment, and climate change,” she said.

Speaking at the same event, ZGC chief executive officer, Mrs Virginia Muwanigwa said climate change disproportionately affects girls.

“Women and girls suffer the most as they often travel long distances to get water, which can lead to early child marriages. We aim to empower women to tackle this climate crisis,” said Mrs Muwanigwa.