Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana recently in Lupane
ZIMBABWE has marked considerable progress in advancing gender equality, aligning with global movements, though calls for deeper reflection and collective action to tackle persistent disparities continue to grow. Over the past decade, the Government, working through the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC), has implemented various programmes and rallied stakeholders to help shape a more inclusive and gender-equal society.
Recently, the Commission held a meeting in Lupane under the theme “ZGC @10: Reflecting on Achievements and the Future for Gender Equality in Zimbabwe”, where participants celebrated key milestones since the Commission became operational in 2015.
In a speech read on her behalf by vice chairperson, Commissioner Obert Matshalaga, during the official launch of the 2025 Provincial Gender Forum in Lupane on Tuesday, ZGC chairperson, Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe, described the gathering as more than a commemorative event. She said it was a pivotal platform to assess progress, confront systemic challenges, and reposition gender equality at the heart of Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
“We are not just celebrating; we are preparing for a transformative future that leaves no one and no place behind. This year’s forum is particularly momentous as we mark a remarkable milestone — the 10th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission,” she said.
The forums, being held across all provinces, are mandated under Section 8(1) of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission Act as precursors to the National Gender Forum. They are designed to ensure grassroots voices help shape national policy direction.
Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe outlined landmark achievements by the Commission, including the launch of a National Inquiry into Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of Young Girls and Child Marriages in 2022, and the receipt and handling of more than 4 000 complaints — ranging from land disputes and sexual harassment to workplace violence and gender-based abuses.
“Sexual harassment remains the most frequently reported violation, underscoring the urgent need for collective action,” she noted.
The Commission has also made institutional strides, decentralising offices to five provinces and establishing a permanent headquarters in Harare, aptly named The House of Gender Equality. Other achievements include the creation of a national gender complaints call centre, which enhances public access to justice.
The Commissioner also applauded progressive legislative reforms that have advanced the rights of women and girls, notably the amendment of the Marriages Act (2022), which outlaws child marriages, and the Education Amendment Act (2020), which protects girls’ right to education during pregnancy and motherhood.
However, Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe warned that significant gaps remain.
“Women still face systemic barriers — from inaccessible justice and under-representation in leadership, to energy poverty and unpaid care work. Climate shocks, maternal health burdens, and rising gender-based violence, including drug and substance abuse, further entrench these inequalities,” she said.
She urged participants to seize the opportunity presented by the forum to “reflect critically and make their voices heard” as Zimbabwe transitions to the Second National Development Strategy (NDS2).
Meanwhile, in his welcome remarks, read on his behalf by Director for Co-ordination, Mr Tapera Mugoriya, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North, Cde Richard Moyo, commended the
Commission’s decade-long efforts and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to gender equality and human rights.
“I am pleased that the Government has set up the Zimbabwe Gender Commission as a constitutional body to ensure the achievement of gender equality in the country. We commend their efforts aimed at eliminating all forms of discrimination and inequality,” he said.
Minister Moyo highlighted growing female representation in leadership as a sign of meaningful progress and praised efforts to empower girls through education and women through economic inclusion.
He emphasised that the forum was more than a ceremonial gathering — it was a strategic engagement to identify policy gaps, elevate community voices, and influence the national discourse.
“While celebration is essential, this milestone also prompts critical reflection on emerging gender issues, persistent inequalities, and the need to reimagine strategies for the coming decade,” said Minister Moyo.
The Commission expressed gratitude to partners including the Ministry of Women Affairs, Irish Aid, UN Women, and the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe for their unwavering support in complementing its work.
As the Provincial Gender Forums continue across the country, ZGC hopes to harness a wide array of insights from communities to strengthen gender-responsive policies and accelerate the nation’s journey towards equality.
“This is a pivotal moment. Let’s reflect, engage, and act for a Zimbabwe where gender equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality,” added Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe.
