Gender policy set for review

THE Parliament of Zimbabwe is set to review its gender policy to align with evolving workplace dynamics, focusing on inclusivity and diversity beyond gender equality.

Last Friday, Parliament convened a stakeholders’ meeting in Bulawayo to gather input on updating the policy to meet legal requirements while embodying a broader vision of inclusivity. The event was attended by various stakeholders, including gender advocates, consultants, and others.

Parliament’s chief director of human resources, Mr Takawira Maganga emphasised the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the policy to ensure it aligns with contemporary workplace dynamics.

“Our current policy has served us well, but the landscape is continually evolving. Over the years we have made significant strides in promoting gender equality within our institution,” he said.

“However, as we assess our progress and the changing dynamics of our workforce, it has become evident that our policy requires an upgrade. It is no longer sufficient to have a policy that merely focuses on gender, we must expand our vision to include a broader framework that embraces inclusivity in all its forms.”

During the discussions, it was noted that there was a necessity to transition from a strictly gender-focused policy to one that embraces a broader framework of inclusivity.

This new approach aims to address the diverse identities and experiences of all employees, including those related to race, ethnicity, disability, and other aspects of diversity.

Mr Maganga identified several critical areas where the existing policy could be strengthened. These areas include increased representation, support for all genders, work-life balance and training and development among others.

“Our demographics are changing and various stakeholders have highlighted areas where our existing policy could be strengthened. These include increased representation, our policy must promote the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women and other under-represented groups,” said Mr Maganga.

He said it is also crucial that their policy addresses the needs of all employees, regardless of gender identity.

“We must also ensure that our training programmes on gender sensitivity and unconscious bias are robust and accessible to all employees. We also need to reassess our support systems, such as flexible working arrangements and parental leave policies,” said Mr Maganga.

“We should also have clear channels for reporting discrimination or harassment to ensure employees feel safe and supported when voicing concerns.”

Acting Clerk of Parliament, Mr Bernard Zvamada said the workshop comes at a time when gender equality remains a pressing issue within the public sector in Zimbabwe.

He reiterated the importance of this initiative, noting that the Parliament has a unique opportunity to set a precedent for inclusivity in the nation.

According to recent statistics, women continue to be under-represented in leadership roles, with only 36,36 percent holding positions as permanent secretaries and even lower percentages in other senior roles.

Parliament’s chief director of finance, Mr Bernard Zwemara reiterated the institution’s commitment to inclusivity, emphasising that the policy transcends compliance to recognise and value the contributions of all individuals.

“The institution of Parliament, as the cornerstone of our democracy, has both the responsibility and the opportunity to set a precedent for a more inclusive and equitable working environment.

“The Institutional Gender Policy transcends compliance because it emphasises the importance of recognising and valuing the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their gender,” he said.

Parliament has recorded notable achievements which include the establishment of Gender Focal Persons in every department. Additionally, 52 percent of Parliament staff is female which indicates a favourable institutional recruitment policy towards gender equality.

There is also a breastfeeding facility at Parliament which makes it convenient for lactating working mothers to tend to their babies.