Online Reporter
Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) has lauded the support and commitment it has been getting from the Government and other stakeholders saying it has helped them advance and advocate for gender equality in Zimbabwe while working hard to dismantle cultural and systemic barriers to the realisation of its mandate.
As the commission enters its tenth year of existence this year, it celebrates a decade dedicated to fostering equal opportunities by fighting all forms of gender related discrimination.
The decade-long milestone coincides with the global observance of International Women’s Day (IWD) where the commission reaffirms its commitment to consolidating progress in this critical area while positioning Zimbabwe among nations that have made considerable advancements towards achieving gender equality.
The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, which comprise 17 objectives aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring peace and prosperity for all by 2030, prominently feature Goal 5: Gender Equality. This goal emphasises the necessity of ending all forms of discrimination against women and girls.
In an interview during recent commemorations, ZGC Chairperson, Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana Sangarwe urged all stakeholders including the church to intensify efforts towards realising gender equality.
She spotlighted the urgency of consolidating the gains made over the past decade and tackling persistent gender inequalities that hinder the realisation of women’s rights in line with this year’s theme “Accelerate Action”.
She said although there still exists pockets of resistance and sometimes a lack of appreciation born out of cultural practices, the country has moved milestones in the achievement of gender equality.
“This theme resonates profoundly in Zimbabwe as the nation continues its quest for gender equality and women’s empowerment in line with both constitutional mandates and international commitments. For the ZGC, ‘Accelerate Action’ signifies the need to fast-track the implementation of constitutional provisions that promote gender equality, eliminate harmful practices and dismantle structural barriers hindering women’s decision-making, economic empowerment and access to justice,” stated Commissioner Mukahanana Sangarwe.
She emphasised that this year’s theme is a call to action for all sectors of society to enhance efforts in ensuring equal rights, opportunities and power as well as ensuring that no woman or girl is marginalised in the pursuit of inclusive development.
“The Constitution of Zimbabwe establishes a solid framework for gender equality. Section 17 mandates the State to promote comprehensive gender balance, which includes equal representation of women in leadership roles. Section 56 prohibits discrimination on grounds such as sex and gender; while Section 80 guarantees women’s equal rights across political, economic and social spheres. Yet, the challenge remains in the full realisation of these provisions,” she said.
She noted that to accelerate progress, the commission proposes targeted initiatives including establishing accountability mechanisms, allocating resources for leadership training among women and adopting binding quotas to achieve gender parity. Moreover, it presents a crucial opportunity to advocate for a Gender Equality Law that would operationalise the constitutional provisions regarding gender.
Local entrepreneurs like Ms Kathy Mwanza — founder of Cake Fairy and Fairy Cake restaurant epitomise the potential of women in leadership within the business sector. She has transitioned from a small baking operation to a growing enterprise spanning multiple regions and emphasises resilience and support among women entrepreneurs.
“I encourage women with dreams of business ownership to recognise that the start is often the most challenging phase. It demands courage and patience. While obstacles may arise, perseverance is key to actualising our dreams.
Let’s remain strong and support each other in business,” said Ms Mwanza.
Ms Nomalanga Ndlovu, known as Ms Noma, a corporate trainer and founder of Money Soiree, advocates for women’s financial literacy and empowerment.
“Navigating the business landscape as a woman poses unique challenges, often in male-dominated spaces. Yet, we’ve made strides. Networking is critical, and while it can be challenging to establish connections, women are increasingly succeeding. My work has been about making an impact in women’s lives and building strong networks. I urge young women to believe in themselves and start their journeys now,” she stated.
Another gender advocate, Ms Nomqhele Siziba, founder of Youth Invest, emphasises that empowering women and girls is not just an ethical obligation but fundamental to creating a just and thriving society.
“By fostering equal opportunities — financially, economically, socially — we can unlock their full potential and drive sustainable development. On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable women making strides in their communities and the allies advocating for policies promoting equity and empowerment. We pledge to build a world where every woman and girl can live without fear of violence, discrimination or marginalisation — one with equal rights and opportunities,” said Ms Siziba.
As the ZGC commemorates this significant 10th anniversary, it reflects on a steadfast commitment to gender equality. Since its inception in 2015, the commission has partnered with the Government, civil society and international stakeholders to champion transformative changes, address gender-based discrimination and prioritise women’s rights in public policy.
The ZGC has successfully developed gender-sensitive policies that tackle systemic challenges faced by women and girls, ensuring compliance with constitutional mandates for gender parity and participation in all facets of society.
It has conducted nationwide awareness campaigns on gender-based violence and sexual harassment, fostering community dialogues and advocating for inclusive development policies. The commission’s efforts have also prioritised correcting historical disparities, aiming to enhance the welfare of marginalised women and girls ensuring that they are capacitated in line with constitutional provisions.
As the ZGC moves forward, its ongoing dedication to advancing women’s rights remains pivotal in shaping a more equitable future for all Zimbabweans.
