Tag Archives: democracy

Barriers to women’s participation in politics and activism

Linda Masarira

BY LINDA TSUNGIRIRAI MASARIRA

Zimbabwean women face numerous challenges that hinder their participation in politics and activism. These obstacles are deeply rooted in cultural, religious, and traditional beliefs that perpetuate gender inequality.

One major issue is the expectation that women should prioritize caregiving, household chores, and family duties over political engagement. This limits their time, energy, and opportunities for political involvement. Additionally, women are often looked down upon, and their capabilities are underestimated, leading to a lack of confidence and self-belief.

Religious sects, such as the Apostolic Church, restrict women’s leadership roles, perpetuating gender inequality. Similarly, some churches, like the SDA, do not allow women to become official pastors. These religious beliefs perpetuate gender stereotypes, confining women to submissive and nurturing roles.

Cultural beliefs and traditional practices also hinder women’s political participation. For instance, women are expected to prioritize family and domestic duties, and those who choose to pursue political careers are often viewed as neglecting their responsibilities. Moreover, women are often excluded from decision-making processes and leadership positions, perpetuating male dominance.

Education is also a significant barrier. In some families, boys are prioritized over girls, limiting women’s access to education and opportunities for political engagement.

The notion that women should submit to men, especially in customary marriages, perpetuates gender inequality. This belief is often reinforced by churches and cultural practices, restricting women’s autonomy and agency.

To address these challenges, Zimbabwe needs to implement policies and programs that promote gender equality, challenge harmful gender stereotypes, and support women’s political participation and activism. This includes education and awareness-raising initiatives, quota systems, and mentorship programs.

By addressing these barriers, Zimbabwe can empower women to take on leadership roles, participate in politics, and contribute to the country’s development. It is essential to recognize the value of women’s participation in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

ActionForEquality #TimeIsNow

YourVoiceMatters #TimeToAct

WDN Zim launches InvestInHerCampaign

Daphne Machiri, Campaign Coordinator

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Women’s Democracy Network (WDN) Zimbabwe has launched the InvestInHerCampaign which seeks to advocate for the increased political and socio-economic empowerment of women.

The campaign which is running for the month of March, which is known as the Women’s History Month, will seek to amplify women’s voices, action and leadership.

Daphne Machiri, Campaign Coordinator, further added that it (campaign) is also meant to celebrate women’s power, resilience, leadership and respect.

“The objective of the campaign is to, promote women’s inclusion and participation in democratic processes; commemorate women’s month by raising public awareness on International Women’s Day  on the 8th under the theme: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, on WDN ZW social media platforms and to create platforms for promoting women political leaders solidarity support.

“In addition, the campaign  seeks to recognize women’s achievements in political leadership facets and not only politically and also their contributions towards socio-economic development.

“In promoting sustainable democracy, by promoting women political leaders, decision making positions and process claiming to take action to drive gender parity; women leaders and gender champions will be sharing their experience, success, challenges and their opinion during the #InvestinHerCampaign through their voices on various media platforms.

“Nonetheless, WDN’s willpower and contributions are to champion and advance women’s rights and inclusion, in addressing gender imbalance in Zimbabwe’s political leadership,” said Machiri.

She further revealed that WDN-ZW’s work fosters change in making sure there are equal opportunities for both men and women to participate in all levels of political decision making.

“We are working towards a gender equal world, a world free of partiality, stereotyping, discrimination, ferocity.

“A world that is inclusive, equitable and diverse. Women working towards achieving equality in leadership positions collectively and rise to stimulate inclusion in line with international women’s day theme.

“This campaign therefore provides an opportunity to increase political will, commitment and encourage political decision makers to strive to ensure adequate space  is created for women and support mechanisms are strengthened to ensure public recognition  and respect of  women’s rights and leadership  across multiple sectors in the country; be it political, economic and social.

“Furthermore, the WDN #InvestInHerCampaign also seeks to leverage voices on issues that affect women’s participation in leadership and decision making process, the campaign will be an opportunity for women led organisations from various sectors to make concerted efforts in creating more opportunities for women and strive to ensure gender equality,” added Machiri.

It was also stressed that women must have consistent representation in the political arena, and this can only happen when they have access to equal opportunities to participate in all levels of political decision making. It was also revealed that there are exceptional measures which must be put in place so as to address this imbalance, so as  to ensure that women are fully involved in Zimbabwe and the world’s political leadership.

Machiri also revealed that in overcoming barriers faced by women; strengthening women’s leadership capacities and gender responsive policy making is crucial for the development and progress of any society and key to achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 5 (achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls).

It was also revealed that unlocking women’s power will mean ensuring an enabling environment for women to assert and enjoy their rights, facilitating women equal leadership and participation in democracy processes opportunities, access to education and healthcare, and the ability to make decisions that affect their lives.

“When women own their power,  they are able to contribute significantly and sustainably to the economy, participate in politics, and advocate for their rights, “ added Machiri.