Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke and Anesu January
ZIMBABWE has taken another major step towards practical gender equality and inclusivity, this time within public institutions, following the launch of the Gender Equality Seal (GES), spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).
The Gender Equality Seal is a globally recognised certification that promotes institutional commitment to gender equality through practical action, evaluation and accountability frameworks.
Speaking at the launch in Harare yesterday, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said: “This launch transcends a mere event on our calendar. It marks a crucial milestone in our continuous national endeavour to attain gender equality and inclusive governance. ZIMRA’s commitment to implement this initiative demonstrates strong leadership.”
The launch followed Zimbabwe’s successful hosting of the meeting of Sadc Ministers of Gender and Women Affairs last month, said the minister, where member states agreed to expedite the implementation and monitoring of the GES programme.
“We have already initiated this important programme ahead of many Sadc countries, reinforcing our leadership and commitment,” she said.
Citing Zimbabwe’s Constitution, Minister Mutsvangwa reminded delegates of the legal foundation backing the programme.
“Section 17 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides for gender balance in all spheres of life and Section 52(2) provides for equal rights, equal treatment, and equal opportunities,” she said.
The Gender Equality Seal, now being piloted by ZIMRA, was expected to set a national benchmark.
“It serves as a robust accountability mechanism and catalyst for development by ensuring that institutions align their actions with their stated principles,” said the Minister.
Minister Mutsvangwa made an open call to other arms of Government to follow ZIMRA’s example: “I therefore call upon all other Government entities, including the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, the Office of the Auditor-General and the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, to adopt the Gender Equality Seal programme.”
Acting ZIMRA Commissioner General Constance Shumbayawonda described it as more than just a technical exercise.
“This initiative, introduced in partnership with the UNDP, is more than a technical process. It is a powerful declaration by us,” she said.
“It says we are ready to reject inequity, not just in our policies and procedures, but in our culture in Zimbabwe. In our leadership.”
Ms Shumbayawonda stressed that gender equality was not a luxury, but a strategic necessity and dismissed perceptions that gender equality efforts promote rivalry between men and women.
“In a revenue authority like ours, gender equality is not optional. It enhances operational efficiencies when there is gender equality. It supports economic expansion and defines progressive leadership,” she said.
“Yes, this is not about men versus women.
“I need to clarify that. It is about partnership, fairness and shared progress among the society. It is about recognising and valuing the different strengths that we bring together to the table. And creating room for those strengths to flourish.”
