Sweden critical partner in fight against GBV

Gibson Nyikadzino-Zimpapers Politics Hub

Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe Per Lindgärde has emphasised the crucial role of leadership in driving social change, promoting inclusivity and equality to achieve a society where everyone has equal opportunities regardless of gender.

In an interview last week, the ambassador said while attitudes cannot change overnight, his government was in “very good dialogue and cooperation with Zimbabwe on gender equality issues”, and will continue supporting efforts by the country to empower women in various aspects.

He said as Zimbabwe makes steps towards gender equality and addressing gender-based violence (GBV), it is important for young boys and girls to remain in school and complete their education, which is the foundation of every form of empowerment.

“What we also need are role models. We need to have men taking the stand, expressing their views in favour of gender equality to work against GBV. We need these kind of role models at all levels in the society, from the Government to the local authorities, down to the traditional leaders. Men have a very important role to play in fighting GBV,” Ambassador Lindgärde said.

Sweden has been in Zimbabwe as a development partner since 1980, providing support to gender equality and sexual and reproductive health and rights services.

Ambassador Lindgärde said his government is committed to continue working with Zimbabwe, however, he bemoaned the setbacks that were caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in making progress towards gender equality.

“We have very good dialogue and cooperation with the Minister of Women’s Affairs and we have had several joint events. That is very valuable from our side that we have been able to establish that close cooperation with the Government on gender equality.

“However, we have seen what has been a kind of a setback when it comes to gender equality as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, I was based in Uganda where schools were closed for nearly two years. When schools opened again many girls were not able to continue their studies due to early marriages and pregnancies.

“I think that the most important thing for a young boy or a young girl is to stay in school, to complete their education. The best start you can have in life is a good education,” he said.