Online Reporter
Michelle Musandinyoze, [email protected]
ZIMBABWE joined the rest of the world yesterday in commemorating International Women’s Day, with communities coming together to honour the women who play vital roles in their lives.
In Bulawayo, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Phakamani Women’s Network organised the event at Mabutweni suburb.
In a speech read on her behalf by the deputy director for coordination in her office Ms Beulla Gwazi, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube noted that women are increasingly breaking barriers and excelling in leadership and executive positions, a development she said reflects the Second Republic’s recognition of their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
“As we come together to commemorate International Women’s Day, we reflect on the strides our nation has made towards empowering the girl child and promoting gender equality,” said Minister Ncube.
She said the Government remains committed to implementing policies and programmes that uplift vulnerable groups and communities, while creating opportunities for women and girls to actively participate in national development.
“Recognising women with respect and dignity demonstrates our commitment to acknowledging their vital role in national development. To this end, we have seen women in Government and the private sector defying all odds and excelling in executive positions,” said Minister Ncube.
She said the Government remains determined to ensure that development initiatives benefit all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, children and people living with disabilities.
Minister Ncube urged women to understand that empowerment goes beyond commemorations and should be reflected in everyday actions.
“Empowerment does not end with one event. Let us carry this spirit into our homes, churches, workplaces and communities as we build a Zimbabwe where every woman, every girl child and every person with a disability has the opportunity to live with dignity, purpose and hope,” she said.
Minister Ncube commended the ZPCS Phakamani Women’s Network for organising the event and for spearheading initiatives aimed at supporting disadvantaged members of society.
The minister said such initiatives resonate with President Mnangagwa’s development mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
“I want to commend the Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Chapter for adopting the house where we have gathered today, which accommodates people living with disabilities and is now proudly known as Phakamani House,” she said.
“In Ndebele, we say ‘umfazi ngumthombo wokuphila,’ meaning ‘a woman is a well of life.’ Today, we are witnessing that proverb come to life through the compassion and support that the Phakamani Women’s Network has extended to the residents of this home.”
Minister Ncube also praised the women’s network for deliberately including persons with disabilities in their programmes, saying this ensures that development initiatives promote equal opportunities and dignity for all.
Speaking during the same event, ZPCS Deputy Officer Commanding Bulawayo Province, Assistant Commissioner Priscilla Mthembo, highlighted the importance of addressing emotional challenges faced by people with disabilities, linking economic empowerment to healing and resilience.
“Let us be mindful of the language we use and the opportunities we create. Empowerment is not just about giving, but it is about recognising the potential in every individual. When we support economic independence, we are also nurturing emotional well-being,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Tichaona Moyo, who received grocery hampers, a bed, clothing and a wheelchair, expressed gratitude to the organisation for transforming his life.
“I do not want this kindness to end with me. I would be grateful if you continue extending similar gestures to others who are also in need,” he said.
The Government’s efforts towards empowering women were also highlighted at the 2026 International Women’s Day conference and exhibition held last Friday.
Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa addressed the crowd, calling for a culture of sharing knowledge, resources and opportunities to accelerate empowerment and national development.
Speaking passionately, she said the theme, “Give to Gain”, should guide women beyond mere commemorations.
“When women continuously give to one another, strategically and consistently, we gain stronger families, resilient communities and a more prosperous Zimbabwe,” she said, reiterating the importance of solidarity among women.
Minister Mutsvangwa reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to women and girls through various initiatives.
The International Women’s Day 2026 theme is “Give to Gain,” focusing on how investing in women’s empowerment, health and equality creates a prosperous, collective gain for all of society. Parallel to this, the official UN theme is “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls.”
