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Sifelani Tsiko, Innovations Editor
Women-owned businesses in Zimbabwe still need more support to help close gaps for their access to resources, markets and financial services, a new study shows.
The two critical studies conducted by UN Women in partnership with the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) recommended the need for actionable policies, investment strategies and gender-focused initiatives that could help women – owned businesses gain ground in the Zimbabwean market.
The studies which were launched at a reception to mark the International Women’s Month included, “The Impact of Austerity Measures on Women-Owned Businesses in Zimbabwe,” and the “Baseline Survey on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment within the Private Sector in Zimbabwe.
The Impact of Austerity Measures on Women-Owned Businesses in Zimbabwe assesses how economic stabilisation measures have affected women-owned businesses, revealing the challenges they face and providing recommendations for gender-responsive policies.
Baseline Survey on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment within the Private Sector in Zimbabwe provides a comprehensive analysis of the status of gender equality in the private sector, highlighting areas for improvement and strategies to promote women’s leadership and participation.
“We acknowledge the Government of Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality, including the adoption of policies that support women’s rights and participation in all spheres of life,” said UN Women Zimbabwe country representative Fatou Aminata Lo.
“We need to appreciate the recommendations made in these reports to help women-owned businesses to access resources, markets and financial services.”
Said UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr Edward Kallon: “As we launch two pivotal reports on women’s economic empowerment today, we highlight the United Nations’ commitment to increasing investments aimed at closing the gender gap and increasing support for gender equality and women’s empowerment at all levels.
“The findings of these reports illuminate the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs, the barriers they face, and innovative solutions that can enable their success.
“They emphasize the urgent need to bridge systemic gaps in access to resources, markets, and financial services.”
Dr Divine Ndhlukula, an entrepreneur and head of the Women-Owned Business Trust, said most businesses run by women were stagnant and not gaining new ground.
“A lot still needs to be done. We have to support women to grow in business. Most businesses run by women are stagnant and they need more support to access markets and financial services,” she said.
“There is a lot of lip service when it comes to supporting women’s economic empowerment.”
Said Thokozile Ruzvidzo, executive director of Zimbabwe Women Resources Centre and Network: “We need to stand against push backs on women’s rights and help close gender gaps.”
Commemorations for the International Women’s Month, which were concluded on March 31 were held under the theme: “For All Women and Girls – Equality. Rights. Empowerment.”
Online Reporter