Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Mutare Bureau
THE quota system introduced by President Mnangagwa has transformed the way women participate in politics, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera has said.
She made the remarks at the Presidential victory celebrations held at Munyoro Secondary School in Chimanimani West Constituency recently.
Minister Mavetera, who is also the Young Women for Economic Development (YW4ED) national chairperson, said the quota system has allowed women, especially youths, to enter the political and decision-making space.
“We are very grateful to President Mnangagwa for introducing the quota system both in central and local government,” he said.
“It is through this policy that young women have found a place at the table where decisions are made.”
Minister Mavetera said under the quota system, Young Women 4ED has eight Members of Parliament and 28 councillors across the country, all of whom are women affiliated with the organisation.
“This is a huge milestone. These are not just numbers, these are real women representing communities, shaping policy, and bringing women’s voices into governance.
“The President has walked the talk on empowering women. He has ensured that young women are not left behind in politics and leadership,” she said.
The journey towards inclusive governance requires more than slogans, added Minister Mavetera and commended Government’s commitment to mainstreaming gender in national development.
She said as a result of the Second Republic’s policies, talk has now shifted from youths being leaders of tomorrow, but today.
“The quota system is not just a statistic; it is our lived reality. It has propelled women into spaces we were previously excluded,” she added.
Young Women 4ED wishes to continue growing its affiliation so that more women sign in and get into decision-making positions and politics.
The quota system, which reserves a percentage of parliamentary and council seats for women, is a constitutional mechanism aimed at ensuring fair representation in governance structures.
Since its adoption, it has been praised for creating a more balanced and inclusive political environment in Zimbabwe.
Addressing the same gathering, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, praised President Mnangagwa’s leadership on gender inclusivity.
“President ED is bringing in gender. He is one of the best Presidents in terms of promoting gender equality the world over. Young Women 4ED are not only here for economic development, but also for the restoration of our Ubuntu, our culture, and our legacy,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
She said the platform is grooming a generation of disciplined and responsible women who understand their role in the home, society and leadership.
“It is your responsibility kuzvibata kuti uremekedzwe kumba kwako (to carry yourself with dignity so that you are respected at home). We are raising women leaders who are grounded in values and ready to lead in every sphere,” she said.
Sen Mutsvangwa encouraged the women in attendance to take up opportunities being created by Government and not to fear stepping into leadership roles.
The Presidential Victory Celebrations in Chimanimani West were part of a series of events celebrating the continued leadership of President Mnangagwa following the 2023 harmonised elections.
dyton mupawaenda