Women – NEWSSPACE

Women are vital agents of change-Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe

**Zimbabwe Gender Commission Chairperson, Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

While women and girls are disproportionately affected by climate change, they are not only victims but they are also vital agents of change, Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) Chairperson, Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe has said.

Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe added that women are also leaders in environmental conservation and sustainable development, hence they need all the support they deserve.

She was speaking at the 2024 Harare Provincial Gender Forum in Chitungwiza on Wednesday.

The Provincial Gender Forums were being held as a build up to the National Gender Forum, which is set to be held in Gwanda, Matabeleland South Province on September 13.

And the Provincial Gender Forum was being held under the theme, ”Gender, Environment and Climate Change: Building Resilience and Sustainable Development through Gender Equality”.

“In as much as women and girls bear the brunt of environment and climate change challenges, we also acknowledge that women are not only victims of environment and climate change challenges, but they are also vital agents of change.

“They are often the leaders in environmental conservation and sustainable development hence the need to also support women’s leadership in climate decision making as well as support them to develop climate resilient livelihoods,” said Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe.

Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe said the Provincial Gender Forum deliberated on the gendered impact of environment and climate change challenges in the country and produce policy recommendations for improving the situation.

“This year’s Provincial Gender Forum is taking place at the backdrop of the 2023/2024 farming season being declared a drought year due to the El Nino phenomenon resulting in the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, His Excellency Dr. E.D Mnangagwa declaring the situation a state of emergency.

“Further, we also note other worrying environment and climate change challenges ranging from environmental degradation due to illegal and irresponsible mining activities, water, land and air pollution, mounting water and sanitation challenges and wetlands disruption among many other challenges.

“This year’s theme highlights the interconnection between gender, the environment, and climate change.

“Although men and women are impacted similarly by environment and climate change, women are disproportionately affected as they rely heavily on the environment for household provision and livelihoods.

“The impact however threatens to reverse the gains made over the years in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment by further exacerbating vulnerabilities through disrupted livelihoods, increased food insecurity, and compounded water and energy challenges,” she revealed.

She added that the interconnectedness between gender, environment and climate change in Zimbabwe is complex and multifaceted.

Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe revealed that by understanding these interconnected factors, we can work towards gender-equitable solutions that address the unique challenges faced by women in the context of environment and climate change through adopting gender-sensitive approaches to climate resilience and environmental sustainability.

**part of the crowd that attended the Provincial Gender Forum**

Commissioner Mukahanana-Sangarwe said some of the factors include: “Gender roles and responsibilities: women are often responsible for natural resource management, such as collecting water and firewood, and farming.

“This makes them more vulnerable to climate-related changes in weather patterns and natural resources.

“Climate change impacts: Climate change exacerbates existing environmental challenges in Zimbabwe, including droughts, floods, and soil erosion. These impacts disproportionately affect women, who have limited access to resources, technology, and decision-making power.

“Environmental degradation: Deforestation, land degradation, and water pollution affect women’s livelihoods and health, as they rely on these resources for their daily needs.

“Agriculture and food security: Women are critical to agriculture and food security in Zimbabwe. “Climate change affects crop yields, livestock productivity, and food availability, placing additional burdens on women.

“Disaster risk reduction: Women are often excluded from decision-making processes related to disaster risk reduction and management, making them more vulnerable to climate-related disasters.

“Access to resources and technology: Women have limited access to climate-resilient technologies, such as solar-powered irrigation systems, and resources like credit and extension services.

“Cultural and social norms: Societal norms and expectations can limit women’s ability to adapt to climate change, as they may be restricted from participating in decision-making processes or accessing resources.

“Policy and programming: Gender-sensitive policies and programs are essential to address the gender-environment-climate change nexus in Zimbabwe. This includes integrating gender into climate change policies, providing training and capacity-building programs for women, and supporting women’s participation in decision-making processes.”

She also revealed that as ZGC, they acknowledge the tremendous efforts by multi-sectoral stakeholders in implementing various climate action and environmental protection initiatives.

And she added that they acknowledge efforts by Government in facilitating a conducive environment towards transforming society to be more gender sensitive.

“This also includes climate change policies in particular the recent adoption of the Zimbabwe Climate Change Gender Action Plan which provides a framework for mainstreaming gender in the climate change agenda.

“However, we note the need to move from policy to practice.

“It is therefore my hope that this Provincial Gender Forum will provide a platform to interrogate further the above issues and explore mitigation and adaptation strategies.

“Key among these is harnessing indigenous knowledge systems to address the existing environment and climate change challenges,” she noted.

UNFPA, Zim Cricket collaborate to fight GBV

**UNFPA Representative, Ms Miranda Tabifor and Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director,** **Givemore** **Makoni**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) will collaborate with the Zimbabwe Cricket to raise awareness on Gender Based Violence and all other forms of violence women and girls.

This partnership will bank on the huge following for cricket as well as having players serve as role models on and off the field of play.

Speaking at the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding on Friday in Harare; UNFPA Representative Miranda Tabifor described the partnership as a landmark event.

“We know how the nation loves cricket and the cricket players serve as models within the society and we believe that through this partnership and the influence and the power that they have in the community; we are going to advance the good cause of reducing Gender Based Violence in Zimbabwe,” said Tabifor.

Added Tabifor: “indeed today is a historic day, for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), it is historic for us because it is a great pleasure for us to proceed in this landmark signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding with Zimbabwe Cricket Association.

“It is a framework and collaboration to strengthen awareness raising on issues of Gender Based Violence and all other forms of violence against women, including to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights of the women and young people in Zimbabwe.

“The partnership with Zimbabwe Cricket Association is pivotal to UNFPA’s Strategic Plan 2022-2025, which notes that; I quote: UNFPA will expand its multi-stakeholder partnerships and innovative collaborations for impact.

“It also notes that organisations, associations and initiatives are essential to the achievement of the Program of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals.

“The partnership is an accelerator in achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reducing maternal mortality including within the framework of UNFPA support to the Government of Zimbabwe under the 8th Country Programme of Cooperation.”

**Ms Miranda Tabifor and Givermore Makoni sign the MOU**

Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director, Givemore Makoni, said they were elated to be part of the MOU, as it was their first with any UN agency.

“It gives us an opportunity to play our role to not only promoting the girl child to play better cricket on the field, but also to support, raise awareness that will help to protect the girl child off the field of play.

“This cooperation marks the beginning of a great relationship that will see Zimbabwe Cricket contributing to raising awareness on the ills of Gender Based Violence.

“The partnership also demonstrates the Zimbabwe Cricket desire to become the number 1 sport in the country.

“For without the support, participation and inclusion of women and girls, this strategic objective will not be realised.

“We also appreciate that this partnership, though primarily aimed at supporting the female and girl child, will also require engaging men and boys to raise awareness on positive masculinity and the positives it brings in ending violence against women and girls.

“With its huge following nationwide of cricket lovers especially men and boys, the potential for Zimbabwe Cricket Association is huge.

“This presence a chance for the cricket players who are role models in society to use their fame and influence for a good cause,” said Makoni.

Gender Based Violence is a huge problem in Zimbabwe as it is reported that about 1 in 3 women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical violence.

And about 1 in 4 women have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15, hence efforts of such partnerships aimed at ending the vice are well appreciated.

Safe Shelters and One Stop Centres to fight GBV

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

The Government has put in place Safe Shelters and One Stop Centres that provide comprehensive Gender Based Violence (GBV) services to women across the country, Vice President Colonel (RTD) Kembo Mohadi has said.

VP Mohadi revealed this at the High-Level Women in Leadership Summit which was hosted by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, in Harare last week.

The two day summit ran under the theme; “Accelerating Gender Parity through Collective Action: Strengthening Accountability and Solidarity to Transform Policies into Tangible Progress.”

VP Mohadi said the Safe Shelters and One Stop Centres were necessary as the country deals with the GBV vice which continues to mar the developments which have been made to increase women’s participation in public life.

“While all the above interventions are in place, the Government is alive to the challenges posed by Gender Based Violence in our society.

“In response, the Government developed the High Level Political Compact on ending Gender Based Violence and harmful Practices, which the President acceded to, together with other progressive partners.

“In addition, laws and policies have been reviewed to align them with the new developments in the policy environment.

“These include the marriages Act Ch.5.17, Section 70 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, as well as the Public Service Sexual Harassment Policy.

“Additionally, the Government has put in place Safe Shelters and One Stop Centres that provide comprehensive Gender Based Violence services to women across the country,” said VP Mohadi.

In his solidarity message at the summit, Edward Kallon, UN Resident Coordinator, said it was necessary to continue fighting GBV as it prevents women from reaching their full potential.

“Gender-Based Violence is a significant barrier to women’s entry into and advancement within leadership roles.

“It creates a hostile environment that undermines their confidence, restricts their opportunities, and perpetuates gender inequality.

“Addressing GBV is crucial to enabling women to step into leadership roles. UNFPA’s comprehensive approach to combating GBV, from policy advocacy to survivor support, plays a key role in breaking down the barriers that limit women’s leadership potential,” said Kallon.

He also revealed that by creating safer, more supportive environments, UNFPA helps pave the way for women to take on leadership roles across all sectors of society.

“We must also double our efforts in addressing obstacles to women in leadership and political participation.

“The UN General Assembly Resolution 66/130 of 2012 should be our collective rallying point. The UN Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN-Women) is leading the UN effort to promote gender equality and empowerment of women with support from the UNDP and other Agencies, Funds and Programmes.

“The UN entities are working together to support the government to develop the third National Gender Policy.

“We have also collectively worked together in the development of a Women in Decision Making and Leadership National Strategy. “While we do not have all the answers as the UN, we will continue working with the Government of Zimbabwe and its people to achieve your desire for reaching gender parity in all spheres of development.”

We are not a charity case-Disabled Women Support Organisation

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Disabled Women Support Organisation which empowers women, girls and parents of children with disability, says they engage in several income generating projects because they have vowed not to be labeled as beggars or a charity case.

The organisation is exhibiting at the 114^th Edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show, which is running under the theme, “Cultivating Prosperity: Growing Business. Innovating for Change. Nurturing Our Future.”

“Our main vision as an organisation is that we want to empower each other as women with disability because we have got families to take care of.

“Our families look up to us for their survival, so we realised that this vision is quite important for us because we can empower ourselves using the different talents that we have and we make products which we then sell.

“We want to show that we are not beggars or a charity model but we are actually empowering ourselves to earn a better living for ourselves and our families,” said Gladys Masembura, a Board Member of Disabled Women Support Organisation in an interview at their stand.

Masembura revealed that the organisation was formed in 2011 and is based in Harare’s Mufakose suburb.

“Our organisation mostly works with women with disability and girls with disability and also parents who have children with disability.

“Our aim is to empower and encourage each other so that we are not charity models, so we carry out income generating activities as women with disability and we take care of our families.

“So like now we have a lot of things that we are selling here; we have dolls, we have flowers and flower pots which we make using recycled materials,” said Masembura.

She added that while they are hopeful to earn a living from the several items which they sell, they have continue to face challenges when it comes to finding markets for their products.

“We have a challenge with the market for our products; we have quite a wide range but the market hasn’t been easy to come by.

“So it is just our appeal to our fellow Zimbabweans to help us with markets for products.

“We also make dish washing liquids and we also do drink production and petroleum jelly.

“We have limited funds but we can actually do a lot so that we fully empower ourselves,” added Masembura.

Masembura added that through various trainings, they had been taught about the climate change and it effects; hence they are now engaging in good environmental practices such as recycling plastics to make beautiful products.

Women still under-represented

**UN Resident Coordinator, Edward Kallon**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

As of June 1, 2024 globally, just 18 countries had a woman Head of State and 15 countries have a woman head of government, evident that women are still under-represented, United Nations Resident Coordinator, Edward Kallon has said.

Kallon said that at the current rate; gender equality in the highest positions of power, may not be reached for another 130 years.

He was speaking in his solidarity remarks at the Inaugural Zimbabwe High-Level Women in Leadership Summit which was held in Harare last week.

The two day summit which was hosted by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, ran under the theme“Accelerating Gender Parity through Collective Action: Strengthening Accountability and Solidarity to Transform Policies into Tangible Progress”.

Kallon revealed that despite other strides that have been made globally to empower women; “the journey is far from complete- globally, women are still under-represented at decision-making levels in most areas of public administration, private sector and the judiciary.

“Women represent 23.3 per cent of Cabinet members.

“The five most commonly held portfolios by women Cabinet Ministers are Women and gender equality, followed by Family and Children Affairs, Social Inclusion and Development, Social Protection and Social Security, and Indigenous and Minority Affairs.

“Only 26.9 per cent of parliamentarians in single or lower houses are women, up from 11 per cent in 1995. Only six countries have 50 per cent or more women in parliament in single or lower houses: Rwanda (61 per cent), Cuba (56 per cent), Nicaragua (54 per cent), Andorra (50 per cent), Mexico (50 per cent), New Zealand (50 per cent), and the United Arab Emirates (50 per cent).

“Data from 141 countries show that women constitute more than 3 million (35.5 per cent) of elected members in local deliberative bodies.

“Only three countries have reached 50 per cent, and an additional 22 countries have more than 40 per cent women in local government,” said Kallon.

He further revealed that balanced political participation and power-sharing between women and men in decision-making is the internationally agreed target set in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

“Consequently, we must continue to push for gender parity in all spheres of life.

“This means not only ensuring that women have a seat at the table but that their voices are heard, valued, and acted upon.

“True leadership is not about filling quotas; it is about recognizing and harnessing the full potential of all individuals, regardless of gender,” said Kallon.

He also revealed that the summit was a testament to the strength, resilience, and indomitable spirit of women who continue to break barriers, challenge norms, and lead with vision and purpose.

Kallon also revealed that over the past 30 years, the international community has made commitments to promoting gender equality and eliminating discrimination against women including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the Sustainable Development Goals – SDG 5 in particular.

And consequent to these commitments, Kallon added that governments are expected to implement policies and programmes to advance gender equality, including in leadership positions, giving women full and equal share in economic, social, cultural and political decision-making.

“Women bring unique perspectives and solutions to the table—perspectives that are crucial for addressing the multifaceted challenges we face in our societies.

“From economic inequalities to climate change, from peace building to sustainable development.

“Zimbabwe, like many other nations, has seen women rise to prominent positions of leadership.”

He also revealed that the UN is committed to supporting Zimbabwe in its efforts to empower women and girls.

“Our collective mission aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5, which calls for gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

“We stand in solidarity with the women of Zimbabwe as they lead the charge towards a more equitable and just society.

“However, solidarity is not a passive stance; it is active and requires concrete actions.

“It means standing together to address the barriers that women face, from discriminatory practices to unequal access to opportunities.

“It means challenging the status quo and creating spaces where women can thrive without fear of prejudice or discrimination,” he added.

He also had a reassuring message for the women, as he urged them to keep up the momentum and not to be discouraged by the alarming global, regional and national statistics.

“You are on the right path, especially with some gains reported in the UNDP 2023 Human Development Report, in which Zimbabwe is at the top 15 in Africa in respect to promotion of gender equality and women empowerment.

“Continue with intensification of such awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of women’s participation in leadership roles as it takes time to challenge existing power structures and social norms biased towards male leadership.

“Continue collaboration with local media, civil society organizations, and community leaders to disseminate information, challenge gender stereotypes, and promote inclusive governance practices.

“Ensure that your good laws and policies do not remain on paper but that they are implemented, monitored and evaluated. If we do so, the desired transformative changes will happen.

He also reassured saying, “together, let us continue to break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and create a world where every woman and girl can achieve her full potential.”

Achieving gender equality requires collective efforts

**UN Women Country Representative, Fatou Lo**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Achieving gender equality requires the total commitment of everyone, so that women and girls who have for long been marginalised, can reach their full potential, UN Women Country Representative Fatou Lo has said.

Lo revealed this in her solidarity remarks at the Inaugural Zimbabwe High-Level Women in Leadership Summit which was running the under theme; “Accelerating Gender Parity through Collective Action: Strengthening Accountability and Solidarity to Transform Policies into Tangible Progress”.

“Let us push forward the commitments to creating an environment where every woman and girl can reach her full potential and break the glass ceiling.

“Let us work together to break down the barriers that hold women back and build a world where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.

“Let us constantly remember the fight for gender equality is a collective journey. It requires the dedication and commitment of every one of us. Together, we can create a future where women’s participation in leadership and public life is the norm, not the exception. Let us be the change we wish to see in this country,” said Lo.

She also revealed that the summit was a testament to the collective commitment to advancing women’s rights and ensuring women’s full participation in leadership and public life across all sectors.

“We stand on the shoulders of giants, women who have fought tirelessly for the rights we enjoy today.

“Yet, despite significant progress, we are reminded daily of the work that remains.

“Women continue to face barriers in economic empowerment, political participation, and decision-making processes.

“These challenges are not just women’s issues; they are societal issues that affect us all.

“Women’s participation in leadership and public life is not merely a matter of fairness; it is a prerequisite for sustainable development and peace.

“When women lead, we see more inclusive governance, more equitable policies, and more resilient economies.

“Studies have shown that companies with higher gender diversity in leadership outperform their peers.

“Similarly, countries with greater gender equality tend to be more prosperous and stable,” she said.

Lo also revealed that women had to be economically empowered as this is a cornerstone of gender equality. She revealed that women must have equal access to education, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

“We must dismantle the barriers that prevent women from entering and thriving in the workforce.

“This includes addressing the gender pay gap, ensuring access to affordable childcare, and promoting policies that support work-life balance.

“In politics and decision-making, women’s voices are crucial. We must strive for gender parity in all levels of government and public administration.

“This means not only increasing the number of women in leadership positions but also ensuring they have the support and resources needed to succeed. Quotas and other affirmative actions can be effective tools in achieving this goal,” added Lo.

Representing the private sector, Manyara Chigunduru, who is the CEO of Marianhill Chartered Accountants and the Immediate Past President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe, said the summit was not only a celebration of the achievements, but also a call to action—a reminder that the journey toward gender equality in leadership is far from over and that solidarity is more important than ever.

“As we gather here today, I want to emphasize the power of solidarity among women.

“Our collective strength is our greatest asset. When we support one another, share our experiences, and lift each other up, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our individual achievements.

“We pave the way for the next generation of women leaders, showing them that there is no limit to what they can achieve.

“Solidarity means advocating for each other in spaces where our voices may not always be heard. It means mentoring and sponsoring younger women, ensuring that they have the guidance and support they need to navigate the challenges of their careers.

“It means celebrating each other’s successes, big or small, and recognizing that each step forward for one woman is a step forward for all women.

“In the private sector, solidarity also means pushing for systemic change. We must continue to advocate for policies that promote gender equality in the workplace, such as equal pay, flexible work arrangements, and inclusive hiring practices.

“But beyond policy, we must also challenge the cultural norms and biases that perpetuate inequality.

“This requires us to be bold, to speak out, and to lead by example—demonstrating that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but essential components of a thriving, innovative business,” said Chigunduru.

She also revealed that as a businesswoman and also standing in for the private sector, she has seen first-hand the transformative impact that women can have when they are in positions of power and influence.

“Women bring to the table a unique blend of empathy, resilience, and strategic insight that is crucial for driving sustainable growth and fostering a culture of innovation.

“Our leadership styles often prioritize collaboration over competition, inclusion over exclusion, and long-term vision over short-term gains.

“These are not just leadership qualities; they are the cornerstones of successful, forward-thinking businesses in today’s rapidly changing world,” she said.

She added that despite the immense contributions of women in leadership roles, they still face significant challenges.

“The glass ceiling, though cracked, has not yet been shattered.

“Women continue to be underrepresented in boardrooms and executive suites, and those who do reach these heights often do so at great personal cost.

“We grapple with the demands of balancing our professional ambitions with our roles as caregivers, mentors, and community leaders.

“We face unconscious bias, wage gaps, and a lack of access to the same networks and opportunities that our male counterparts often take for granted.

“But let us be clear: these challenges are not insurmountable. In fact, they are what make us stronger, more determined, and more united in our pursuit of equality.

“The very act of overcoming these obstacles has equipped us with a unique set of skills and perspectives that are invaluable in the world of business.

“We have learned to be adaptable, to think creatively, and to lead with a sense of purpose and compassion that drives not only profits but also positive social impact,” she said.

Chigunduru further revealed that as women leaders, they have the power to influence not only their organizations but also the broader economy and society.

“Our decisions impact not just the bottom line but the lives of employees, customers, and communities.

“With this power comes responsibility—a responsibility to lead with integrity, to prioritize social impact alongside financial success, and to use our platforms to advocate for the rights and opportunities of all women.

“In closing, I want to express my deep admiration for each of you here today. Your achievements, your resilience, and your leadership are a testament to the strength of women everywhere. Together, we are not just breaking barriers; we are building bridges—bridges that connect women across industries, sectors, and generations. Let us continue to stand in solidarity, to support one another’s growth, and to lead with the courage, conviction, and compassion that define us as women.

“The future of leadership is female, and that future is bright. Together, we will continue to empower, elevate, and excel,” she added.

Muchanyara Mukamuri, Chairperson of the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ), said that as an organisation, they believe that the advancement of women’s leadership is crucial to achieving gender equality and sustainable development in Zimbabwe.

“We stand firm in our commitment to empower women at all levels of society, ensuring that their voices are heard, their rights are protected, and their contributions are recognized.

“The Summit represents a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to elevate women into leadership roles across all sectors.

“However, we recognize that for true inclusivity and representation, it is imperative that grassroots women are not only present but actively engaged in these discussions.

“In this regard, the women’s movement has ensured the participation of women from the grassroots by bringing them to the table from all corners of Zimbabwe.

“Grassroots women, often overlooked in leadership dialogues, bring invaluable perspectives shaped by their lived experiences within communities.

“They are the backbone of local economies, the nurturers of future generations, and the defenders of human rights at the most basic level.

“This is why as the women’s movement we are making a case for women leadership and representation, not only at national level, but also at community level and at the very grassroots.

“Therefore as the women’s movement, we have concerted our efforts to mobilise diverse women from the grassroots to ensure their meaningful participation and representation during this Summit.

“We view this as an intersectional and strategic necessity for crafting policies and initiatives that are truly reflective of the needs and aspirations of all Zimbabwean women in their diversity” said Mukamuri.

She also revealed that as the women’s movement, they are worried about the numerous events unfolding in the country and across the globe.

“We have noted serious regression and push-back on women’s leadership not only in Zimbabwe but the world over.

“We continue to note that across the globe, that women persistently face numerous challenges—challenges that are often compounded by patriarchal systems, socio-economic barriers, and political violence.

“Yet despite these obstacles, women continue to lead with courage, with resilience, and with an unwavering commitment to justice.”

She also revealed that they remain committed committed to ensuring that the Women Leadership Summit serves as a catalyst for transformative change.

“By centering diverse women in these critical conversations, we are not only amplifying their voices but also building a more equitable and just society for all.

“Together, we can achieve a future where every woman, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to lead, influence, and thrive.

“The women’s movement reaffirms its commitment ad readiness to work with the Government and all stakeholders in pursuing strategies to address the numerous obstacles faced by women in leadership.

“This summit is more than just a gathering of women leaders; it is a demonstration of our unity and strength.

“It is a clear message to all those who doubt or oppose our progress: that we are united in our resolve to create a world where women’s leadership is not the exception, but the norm,” added Mukamuri.

The summit which started yesterday, ends this Friday.

**Minister Monica Mutsvangwa (fourth from left) poses with women at the Summit**

Women are the chief architects of equality-Minister Mutsvangwa

**Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Women are the chief architects of equality and they should realise that power which they seek and deserve, will never be given to them on a silver platter; Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa has said.

Minister Mutsvangwa added women should also support each other to lead, as they are capable and are equally responsible to shape the country’s future.

She said this on Thursday, the first day of the High-Level Women in Leadership Summit, which is being held in Harare.

The summit which is ending this Friday, is running under the theme“Accelerating Gender Parity through Collective Action: Strengthening Accountability and Solidarity to Transform Policies into Tangible Progress”.

“It is heartening to see that women have realised that as women ourselves, we can be the chief architects of equality, as power will never be given to us on a silver platter, we have to claim it!

“Your support will not go in vain and I believe we shall continue to walk together on the road to a future where a woman’s right to lead is not questioned but celebrated; where young girls can dream without limits; and where we can finally say, with unwavering conviction, that the playing field has been levelled,” she said.

Minister Mutsvangwa further revealed that the summit which is being attended from women from various sectors, should not be just a mere talk show, but should foster ways to increase women’s participation in leadership and decision making.

“I however want to highlight that the annual women in leadership summit should not just be a routine event, but a ‘National Platform’ for; annual agenda-setting and interaction on opportunities to increase women’s participation in leadership and decision-making; to ensure accountability on gender equality and women empowerment and to provide a platform for forming strong coalitions, networking and knowledge sharing for women leaders.

“As we deliberate during the next two days, let us avoid another talk show but rather an outcome that brings change in the lives of the women that we represent,” she said.

The minister added that it was good to note that the country’s 2013 Constitution’s gender positive attributes were a source of great pride as it is an instrument to put forward the holistic inclusion of women and the girl child in the full spectrum of socio-economic endeavors.

She however noted that despite the different legal and policy frameworks, women are still underrepresented in leadership and decision-making positions, in boardrooms of public and private sector organizations, in Parliament, and on several decision-making platforms.

She noted that it was good to acknowledge some advances that have been made like the striving for 50-50 gender parity.

“As we strive to achieve 50-50 gender parity in politics and other areas, we should acknowledge efforts achieved this far.

“This includes the extension of the women’s parliamentary quota and the introduction of the quota system at the Local Government level.

“His Excellency, the President, Comrade E.D Mnangagwa has also appointed women to strategic leadership positions namely; The President of Senate, the Attorney General, the Prosecutor General, Chairperson of ZEC, Chairperson of Mutapa Investment Fund, Chairperson of Zimbabwe Gender Commission among others.

“His Excellency, President Mnangagwa has also appointed a considerable number of women as Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and Ambassadors.

“We have started somewhere and we hope the trajectory towards increasing women in leadership sustained,” she said.

Turning onto women’s economic empowerment; she also acknowledged that several women had made it and excelled after venturing into previously male-dominated business areas.

She appluaded women who have made it in various business areas such as; engineering, mining, ICT, security, Finance, Insurance, manufacturing and others.

Minister Mutsvangwa however said there was still more to be done, as women still face several challenges.

“It is however important to note that women still face challenges with regard to equitable access to credit, financial services, infrastructure, markets.

“Economic marginalisation also prevents a lot of women from participating in politics, a domain which has been highly commercialised.

“This also explains why the private sector must be mobilized as a key partner in this endeavour,” she said.

In order to promote gender equality, Minister Mutsvangwa also gave several suggestions, including proposing for the setting up of a National Academy of Gender Studies at all universities.

She also proposed that the Women’s University should host the National Chair of the Gender Academy.

She added that the Gender Academy should identify role models and cast them as pace-setters as their case studies will be highlighted for easy and fast emulation saying “the human mind learns faster by example.”

“The National Gender Academy would pool knowledge and practice and set high standards in all areas of study, including in the emergent knowledge tools of Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy.

“We need to accelerate the slow pace of rural work space provision for our women, bearing in mind that the majority of the population is still rural, and hence the slow pace implementation gives poor rewards and perpetuates rural poverty.

“Every effort must therefore be made to lessen the drudgery of the rural economy which inordinately weighs down the woman and the girl child.

“We must seize on the advances in technological progress to deliver light and energy through harnessing solar power, strive to have on-site potable water through boreholes, provide appropriate solar powered vehicle mobility, ensure easier access to markets, furnish digital cloud-based education and strive for universal financial inclusion.

“This avenue must consequently speed up the drive to climate proof farming through rewarding and innovative research and development.

“Pfumvudza, fish acqua-culture, village business units must be adopted and finessed to improve livelihoods by lessening the burden on women,” she said.

The minister further revealed that there was need to take a closer and studied look on the small to medium enterprises sector such that all incentives are availed to grow this all-important sector that constitutes 60-80 per cent of Gross Domestic Product.

She added that women and the girl child are the majority anchors of the SME sector.

And she also revealed that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects should be pushed more for education by the girl child.

“Science and technology create the goods and services that define wealth in society.

“It is vital to dispel gender stereotypes about access to science and technology.”

Minister Mutsvangwa added further there was need to forge intergenerational connections, ensuring that the vision which was being articulated, resonates with and inspires the next generation of leaders, the young women.

“As we look forward, we must also never forget the historical antecedence of the liberation struggles that have bequeathed to us this foundation on which our empowerment is based.

“We must recall the high-water mark of these epic struggles that was attained during the Chimurenga-Mvukelo National Liberation War.

“We must commit to memory the experiences of the heightened patriotic consciousness of the 1960-70s Samora Machel- Soweto Generation, that witnessed thousands of young women abscond the privileges of schooling to join and hurl themselves into the anti-colonial, anti-racist and anti-apartheid militant fight against the entrenched racist settler minority rule in the southern tip of Africa.

“The prosecution of the various asymmetric guerrilla wars of necessity obviated the full inclusion and participation of the other female gender half of the populace.

“Otherwise, the victory of the scientific People’s Wars would simply not have been attainable if it had been prosecuted with only the male gender participating,” she added.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr Mavis Sibanda said thesummit’s objectives were, “to provide a platform to take stock of progress made towards the achievement of gender parity in women’s participation in decision-making and economic empowerment, interrogate emerging gaps, and devise strategies and innovative approaches to achieve gender parity in line with the national, regional and global commitments and targets.

“To Leverage on Zimbabwe’s SADC Chairmanship as women leaders and drive the Regional momentum for Women’s Leadership and Gender Parity.

“To provide a platform for us to engage with duty bearers to promote accountability to translate policy into action by disseminating a Communique with a set of key strategies and actions on promoting women’s participation in leadership and decision-making, economy and the private sector to duty bearers.

“To promote solidarity among women leaders, exchange of ideas and experience-sharing on women’s participation in leadership and decision-making and women’s economic empowerment.

“Facilitate strategic and constructive male engagement and retention of gender-sensitive male champions who will spearhead advocacy on women’s equal participation in decision-making and economic spheres.

“To take stock of progress made in translating policy into action to enhance women’s participation in leadership and decision-making and economic empowerment as a follow up to the 2023 high-level Intergenerational Dialogue on Women’s Political Participation and Women’s Leadership.”

Women and girls lament the lithium ‘curse’

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

While the discovery of lithium brought some excitement and enthusiasm in the Goromonzi and Acturus Mine community, the joy was short lived, as women and girls have been disproportionately affected owing to the operations.

The women and girls believe that while some developments are evident in their community, it has come with its own downturns and the burden rests on them.

Their concerns range from gender imbalance in employment opportunities at mining companies, failure by the companies to give back to the community they operate in, water challenges that have been exacerbated by the activities.

They also allege rampant cases of child marriages and the increase in several diseases.

The women voiced their concerns at a stakeholder engagement meeting organised by the Economic Justice for Women Project (EJWP), with support from the Southern Africa Trust, as they detailed several challenges being faced in their communities.

Mary Nyadome said they regret the discovery of this valuable and highly sought-after mineral and have called on the relevant authorities to step in.

“What we are facing in Goromonzi in terms of employment at Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe, is a problem of gender bias; they are mainly employing men.

“We had an engagement meeting with our councillors, pertaining to the issue of employment, because women make only less than 1 percent of those employed at PLZ, so as women we must also get equal opportunities to be employed there.

“And according to the demographic dividend in Goromonzi, women are at 52 percent, so it’s not fair, they must consider us as women so that we have a share in terms of the mineral that is extracted in Goromonzi.

“Basically I can say though lithium has brought positive change in Goromonzi, there are so many negative impacts and it is not pleasing.

“There are so many issues of child marriages and I can point also that in Goromonzi Ward 13, there is no Secondary School from 1980 up-to now, so it is not fair because it mainly affects the girl child.

“And also because they (girls) travel long distances from Ward 13 to Ward 16 and Ward 17 to attend school, they are being lured by some truck drivers.

“They are lured by free transport because they will not have any money so they end up dating these men but it affects their lives,” said Nyadome.

She further called on the authorities to ensure that mining companies play their corporate social responsibility role by building a secondary school, reiterating, “there is need for value for money.”

She also lamented that the road infrastructure in her community had been badly damaged; which also greatly affects women who seek medical attention more than their male counterparts.

“Mining companies are ferrying lithium every day to unknown destinations, we see trucks with foreign number plates so it is very difficult for us because we want our government to set up a value addition plant so that as women, PWDs (persons with disability) and youth, we can also benefit.

“There is also the problem of water scarcity, when they are producing one tonne of spodumene lithium, they use quite a lot of water. So you find that this is water intensive and we are now facing shortages in Goromonzi because the water table has been affected.

“It’s now affecting our boreholes because they are drawing water from existing reservoirs like dams which were built in the colonial era or just after independence; so we are saying these companies should rehabilitate more dams or they must also construct more dams so that they use water from the newly constructed structures instead of using our water sources.

“It affects us as women because we depend on these water sources for our livelihoods, for agriculture so it’s now a burden. We are not in a position to demand from these companies because of the political landscape,” she added.

**Patience Chere, Acturus Mine resident**

Similar sentiments were also shared by 19-year-old Patience Chere from Acturus Mine, who said there was rampant sexual exploitation as a result of lithium mining activities.

She revealed that sexual abuse of girls was rampant; as she called on authorities to step in and save the girl child.

“In my community, we now have many rape cases that are occurring and other abuse cases especially for those girls who are dropping out of school. There are a lot of artisanal miners who are dating young girls after luring them with money from the mining proceeds and most of them end up being impregnated and they drop out of school, so that is the challenge that girls are facing.

“Another challenge is that of water, such that people end up drinking from unsafe sources and there are also limited job securities for women save for the men, but also even the men are not benefitting that much.

“Many girls and young women are getting infected with HIV and or STIs because of the risky sexual activities in our communities,” said Chere.

She added that because of the various health issues in Acturus Mine and lack of health facilities, they end up going to Goromonzi; which has its own challenges.

“Another issue is air pollution being caused by the mining activities, leading to people getting sick on a regular basis,” added Chere.

A 16-year-old girl also from Acturus Mine said early marriages were rampant because many girls are dropping out of school.

She also revealed that even when they are married, these young girls find themselves enduring many forms of abuse but because they lack the knowledge; some of them don’t even want to seek help.

“Then we also have issues of diseases as has been mentioned by others and women and girls are the most affected

“And because of the harsh economic conditions and the temptations from some of the mine workers, most girls end up being engaged in sex work.

“Some of these girls end up with unplanned pregnancies and they end up going for unsafe abortion methods,” she added.

Emilia Damba, a resident of Goromonzi said she was yet to see the real progress that has come to their community ever since lithium was discovered.

She said at most, lithium mining had brought undesirable outcomes, some which are irreparable.

She revealed that for those men who were employed at the lithium mining companies, most of them don’t have job security as they can be fired at any time.

“The roads are very bad because of the many trucks carrying lithium.

“We only have 1 clinic in Goromonzi in Ward 16, so in some cases people are referred to Marondera and because of the bad roads, you will end up getting worse.

“We need to have many sensitization workshops with young girls to tell them that marriage is not an achievement, because many are dropping out of school opting to be married to these mine workers and they end up regretting, but it will be a little too late.

“Early marriages are really a menace as they ruin the future of these young girls, so girls and women need to be advised on the importance of education.

“We also have issues of STIs, you will find that the Chinese are luring many young women and girls in these communities and even the truck drivers too, so we end up with many diseases,” added Damba.

A Member of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development, MP Traswell Chikomo revealed that the Mines and Minerals Bill, which could address some of these issues, was still at the Attorney General’s Office, as he encouraged residents to attend public hearings when such issues are discussed.

“Once we start public hearings for this bill, please make sure that you attend them.

“We have challenges that when we have public hearings, many people don’t come, so we urge you to come, like the ladies from Goromonzi, we urge you to come so that when we debate in Parliament we will debate from an informed point of view.

“Also as the Mines Committee, we are going around the country looking at several issues which are affecting people in the mining communities.

“We go to such mining communities to look at several issues so we urge you to write to our Committee of Mines, so that we can come and see these issues so that we respond in time,” added MP Chikomo.

Contacted for comment with regards to issues raised by Goromonzi residents, PLZ said they employ “around 1000 people, with 80% of the workforce coming from the local communities surrounding the mine.

“The company is also an equal opportunity employer. We have a robust recruitment policy that we use as an organization to hire from the community, which is done through ward councillors.

“The community, which includes both men and women, registers with their individual councillors to ensure that all members have equal access to work opportunities. The councillors then bring the enrolled names to PLZ, implying that they have reviewed the lists and determined that everyone on the list is capable and interested in working.

“PLZ will then select persons from those lists who meet the nature of the position. These individuals will then go through the interview process and the final selection is done.”

On the allegations that their operations had disrupted water supplies and road network, PLZ said, “water in Zimbabwe is distributed fairly by the designated and competent government arm, and as an organization, we are dedicated to ensuring that there is enough water for our operations, agriculture, and households in the district.

“We are a responsible corporate citizen who understands our relationship with the community.

“Our Corporate Social Responsibility department has worked on infrastructure development in the Goromonzi district as one of its primary projects.

“When we began operations, we embarked on a significant rehabilitation effort, beginning with the road from the Goromonzi turnoff to the Majuru growth point, followed by the widening of the gravel road and the construction of two bridges.

“Plans are in place to tar the current gravel road, but we are still a young business, so we are working on it.

“As an organization, we conduct a community needs assessment to identify areas where we can act and empower the community.

“All of these CSR projects were initiated as a result of the assessment, and we will continue to do so in order to successfully serve the community. Over the last two years, PLZ has undertaken major CSR initiatives, some of which have been highlighted above. The corporation has made significant investments in education, including a scholarship program that serves 70 students from 13 wards throughout the district. “The business has also constructed classroom blocks and staff quarters at Vhuta School. As part of the project, Vhuta and other schools, including Ivordale, Musirikwi, Belmont, and Mwanza, received new furniture and textbooks. We are currently upgrading the water tanks at Kubatsirana Clinic, a project on which we are collaborating with ZINWA to guarantee that the clinic and community have a clean and efficient water supply.

“PLZ has also embarked on an on-going solar lighting project along the Goromonzi Road, which is intended to curb crime in the community. Since last year, PLZ has supported the first prize winner of the district agricultural show, all the way up to the national level competition.”

Customary law, traditional norms and values, leading obstacles to women accessing land

**ZWACT Executive Director, Sandra Matendere**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

A report by the Zimbabwe Women Against Corruption Trust (ZWACT), has revealed that customary law, traditional norms and values, are the leading obstacles which limit women’s access to land.

The report titled, “Gendered impact of land corruption and displacements on women’s access to social-economic rights in Zimbabwe”, follows a research which was conducted in Masvingo and Manicaland Province.

The research which was led by Allan T. Chaumba, was commissioned to interrogate the extent to which women enjoy their access to land rights in Zimbabwe with special attention given to victims of the 2023/4 internal displacements in the Masvingo and Manicaland Provinces.

ZWACT Executive Director, Sandra Matendere, said while the research was carried out in the two provinces, it’s a fact that displacements are happening in various other provinces, hence when resources permit, they will move to other areas.

Major findings from the research were largely drawn from a sample of at least 500 women constituting 95 percent of the respondents reached out, whilst an insignificant 5 percent were male participants.

“Customary law, traditional norms and values are leading obstacles at 45 percent, followed by corruption at 19 percent, inadequate legal and policy frameworks at 9 percent and lack of implementation of existing legal and policy frameworks at 9 percent.

“In addition there appears to be a lack of political will at 8 percent, to address these challenges considering the fact that they existed during the pre-independence era and the same still exist 44 years after Zimbabwe Independence in 1980,” read the report.

The report further states that forms of corruption limiting women’s access to land rights, include favouritism.

“Favouritism at 35 percent, came prominent as the most common form of corruption, which involves showing preferential treatment or giving unfair advantages to some individuals or groups based on personal relationships rather based on real need for land.

“This leads to inefficiencies and incompetence in decision-making processes.

“This is followed by nepotism at 29 percent in which individuals in positions of power or authority show preferential treatment to their family members of friends often at the expense of more deserving and qualified candidates.

“Bribery scored 24 percent in which public officials and traditional leaders are offered items of value (such as money, livestock, gifts or favors) to give land to the landless.

“Women lamented being poor and unwilling to give such bribes and that explains why some of them do not have land even if they wanted to pay the bribes.

“In addition, 6 percent of the respondents accused public officials of demanding sexual favours in exchange for land,” added the report.

It was also revealed that in terms of land ownership, women still lag behind with only 2 percent claiming to be owning the land where they stay and also where they were evicted from in Manicaland and Masvingo Province.

And it was added that 98 percent did not own the land.

“Traditional leaders who had allocated them the land, had done so in the names of their husbands who also did not have papers as proof of either legal occupancy or ownership.”

Comment on the issue of young women’s access to land, Lillian Tinotenda Muhwandavaka, ZINASU National Gender Secretary, said it was really difficult for a girl child who wants land.

“As young women we are being denied access to land because they feel we don’t deserve because we are young women and there are a lot of reasons that are given.

“If you look at it, only 3 percent is representing us in Parliament and as we all know, we have our young women who should be representing us concerning this issue.

“So as young women we are really being treated unfairly, we have nowhere to air all our grievances.

“And you should know that no one understands the situation better than the person who is affected by that situation, so we need young women who amplify our voices concerning this.

“There is need for a serious policy change so that young women are empowered to have equal access to land, just like their male counterparts,” said Muhwandavaka.

She added: “because if you look at it from a rural perspective, young woman are not expected to say that they want land because they are told they can only access this when they are married.

“We have to give them the space which allows them to grow economically in different spaces, so this is something that is affecting us as young women; let’s consider young women.

“Young women need to be considered so that that they are part of the decision making processes so that we can realize our full potential.”

Government should priotise women in mining

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

The government has been called to prioritise women in mining as they have been for a long time left out to benefit from the country’s natural resources and they are also disproportionately affected as a result of the operations.

Speaking at a recent Economic Justice for Women Project, stakeholder engagement meeting in Harare, Fidelis Simbarashe Musona, Monitoring and Evaluation Lead at Centre for Natural Resource Governance said all attempts to empower women in mining should be deliberate.

Musona said it was important because women are most affected than their male counterparts.

“The recognition of artisanal and small-scale miners is a significant development as there are numerous women-mining groups, supported by different donors, banks etc.

“This will increase women’s participation in mining.

”There is a need for the government to demonstrate an intentional attempt to position women to benefit from mining in the Mines and Minerals Act and in mining generally.

“Going forward, we need to put our heads together and increase advocacy into gender and extractives to ensure increased intentional drives for women in mining.

”The government needs to be persuaded to prioritise women in mining,” said Musona.

He added that there was need for serious collaborations so as to achieve this with the amalgamation of empowering acts of Parliament, national policies like the Gender Policy, the Constitution in its gendered dimension.

Musona added: “Ensuring equal participation in decision-making on the extractive sector is critical to addressing inequalities and ensuring that the sector is managed in the interest of all citizens.

”Through the Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender Commission, provisions should be made to incentivize and support the participation of women-owned or women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the mining value chain.

“This could involve set-asides, preferential procurement policies, and access to financing and business development support.

”Provisions could be made to support the training and skills development of women in technical, operational, and managerial roles within the mining sector.

“This could involve partnering with educational institutions and vocational training centers to create tailored programs.”

Musona also further stressed that the full social benefit of resources development can only be realised if women and girls are able to participate as fully as males in all aspects of resources activity and consequent economic development and social progress.

He said this could only be possible if the principles of gender equality are embedded within the Mines and Minerals Act, supporting policies and practices.

Musona also revealed that this was necessary because “women are carrying the yoke or burden of mining and mining related engagements in the communities.”

”Implied is the fact that, the Mines and Minerals bill in Zimbabwe has left women worse off than before.

”Limited women access to land, limited access to resources- patriarchy.

“Men have most access to the benefits, which consist primarily of employment and income, while women and the families they care for are more vulnerable to the risks created by extractive industries, which consist of mostly harmful social and environmental impacts.

”The loss of land and waters that they rely upon to grow food for their families when they are forced to move by an extractives project will typically have a greater impact upon the women of a community, as they frequently take the greater responsibility for subsistence farming,” he added.

Margaret Mutsamvi, EJWP Director said they had “walked quite a journey documenting through research papers and stories and experiences of young women in a series of documentaries and as a strategy, has introduced these #SheConnects platforms for a direct engagement between young women affected by mining investments and initiatives and critical duty bearers such as legislature, ministries such as Ministry of Women Affairs, Small and Medium Enterprises and Community Development, Ministry of Youth, Ministry of Mines, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and respective civil society organizations.

“The aim is ensuring that such platforms map a practical way/steps forward in addressing emerging problems that are limiting the young women’s access to full socio-economic opportunities in respective host communities.”