Source: Govt reaffirms commitment to empowerment of women – herald
Arron Nyamayaro and Alicia Kadzviti
Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world yesterday in commemorating International Women’s Day, with the Government reiterating its commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women.
The Second Republic has committed to improving the lives of women by coming up with several laws, including the national Constitution itself, which demands gender equality, non-discrimination and outlawing of practices infringing on women’s rights.
Other key laws include the Domestic Violence Act and legal quotas for women in Parliament.
Further, the Government has provided funds to women so they can start self-help projects, while others have received workspaces to embark on their projects, a development that has been hailed by United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UN Women’s Deputy Executive Director Dr Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, who was in the country in January.
As part of the celebrations, families took the opportunity to indulge mothers with special treats, showing appreciation for their unwavering support and sacrifices.
In homes and restaurants alike, laughter and joy filled the air as children and partners showered ladies with love and gratitude, marking the day with heartfelt gifts and cherished moments.
At local churches, female leaders were also celebrated, receiving thoughtful gifts from their congregants.
In a statement yesterday, Zanu PF Secretary for Women’s Affairs and President of the Senate, Cde Mabel Chinomona, said this year’s theme, “Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls”, reminds citizens of their collective responsibility to promote gender equality, working together to dismantle barriers, promote justice, and ensure economic opportunities for all women and girls.
“I encourage you women, wherever you are, to recognise and support each other’s efforts in surrounding communities and work together to create a more just and equitable society,” she said.
“We applaud the Government of Zimbabwe, under the astute leadership of our President, Cde Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, for its commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women, as reflected in our Constitution and various policy initiatives.
“As we celebrate Women’s Month, we recognise the strides made towards advancing women’s rights and acknowledge the work remaining to achieve full equality.”
Cde Chinomona said women, mothers and custodians of families and communities must unite and confront the challenges of drug and substance abuse, child marriages, and gender-based violence and all other distractions that threaten national progress.
“I commend you, women of Zimbabwe, for your honest, hard work, selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to nurturing future generations who are the bedrock of our society.
“The Women’s League is on an empowerment trajectory and committed to supporting you through various empowerment projects, equipping you with practical training skills in poultry farming, priggery, sewing clubs, and Saccos (Savings and credit cooperative society) /Mikando.
“I urge you to embark on these initiatives, to keep our women and girls engaged and empowered away from the scourge of drug and substance abuse,” said Cde Chinomona.
The Government’s efforts towards empowering women were also highlighted at the 2026 International Women’s Day conference and exhibition held last Friday.
Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa addressed the crowd, calling for a culture of sharing knowledge, resources and opportunities to accelerate empowerment and national development.
She said the theme, “Give to Gain”, should guide women beyond mere commemorations.
“When women continuously give to one another, strategically and consistently, we gain stronger families, resilient communities and a more prosperous Zimbabwe,” she stated, reiterating the importance of solidarity among women.
Minister Mutsvangwa reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to women and girls through various initiatives.
She announced the launch of the National Broad-Based Women’s Economic Empowerment Framework and the National Strategy on Women in Politics and Decision-Making (2023–2030) aimed at dismantling barriers such as cultural norms and under-representation in leadership.
“We are not just implementing programmes; we are changing lives. These achievements reflect the resilience, innovation and determination of Zimbabwean women and communities who are driving transformation at the grassroots level,” she said. The minister also addressed efforts to combat gender-based violence, announcing the establishment of one-stop centres that provide victim-friendly services.
“We are not encouraging divorce, but we are saying our women cannot continue to live in homes where there is gender-based violence without support,” she said.
Highlighting the success of the Women Empowerment Programme, she noted that more than 123 000 women have been trained in skills like detergent making and poultry production.
With the Government providing around 87 000 loans through the Women Development Fund, she stressed the significance of creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
Minister Mutsvangwa added that there was need to ensure that the country becomes peaceful for everyone, especially women, to live.
“Together, let us make Zimbabwe a place where women and girls can thrive, live free from violence, and reach their full potential,” she said.
In a read a speech read on her behalf by the deputy director for coordination in her office Ms Beulla Gwazi, during International Women’s Day commemorations in Bulawayo’s Mabutweni suburb yesterday, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube noted that women are increasingly breaking barriers and excelling in leadership and executive positions, a development she said reflects the Second Republic’s recognition of their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
“As we come together to commemorate International Women’s Day, we reflect on the strides our nation has made towards empowering the girl child and promoting gender equality,” said Minister Ncube.
“Recognising women with respect and dignity demonstrates our commitment to acknowledging their vital role in national development. To this end, we have seen women in Government and the private sector defying all odds and excelling in executive positions.”
The New United Apostolic Faith Church yesterday held a special service led by Pastor Rosemary Mangwanya, who took the opportunity to highlight the essential contributions women make within the church and the broader community.
“Today, we joined the global community in celebrating women’s achievements by allowing them to minister in various capacities, including playing the drums and keyboard,” said Pastor Rose.
“Among our members, we have women who prophesy, evangelise and lead various branches of our church.
“Today, we rejoiced in their contributions.”
Pastor Rose, a cancer survivor, moved the congregation with her inspiring testimony.
“A gift of life comes only from God. Today, as I celebrate Women’s Day, I want to express my gratitude for another chance at life,” she explained. “Many of my doctors were women, and I am deeply appreciative of their care and expertise.” Emphasising the importance of early diagnosis, she encouraged the congregation to prioritise health. “We need each other’s prayers,” she said, highlighting the necessity of support from fellow church members. Pastor Rose cautioned church leaders against misleading congregants. “As we commemorate Women’s Day, let us honour our parents, especially our mothers, who gave us life.
“We must not despise them in their old age or accuse them of witchcraft. “False prophets who exploit the vulnerable will face God’s judgment,” she warned. The day also featured powerful testimonies from other women who overcame hardships.
Ms Anesu Mugenge from Hatcliffe, Harare, shared her journey of resilience, explaining how counselling helped her find clarity and start her own business. “I once faced significant challenges, but now my husband values my contributions. I support our family with my own earnings,” she beamed, a sense of pride evident in her voice. Ms Maria Madiwandicho expressed gratitude for having her three children born again.
“I celebrated Women’s Day in church, thankful for the grace to guide my children to Christ. While many parents struggle with challenges like substance abuse, I am blessed to fellowship with my children,” she shared, radiating joy. Ms Alice Masamba from Hatfield spoke about the impact of empowerment initiatives under the Second Republic. “Thanks to these programmes, I have started my own poultry project, providing for my family. The stability of our currency has opened doors for women like me,” she said, emphasising her newfound sense of value. As the event unfolded, the atmosphere was filled with celebration, reflection and gratitude. By the time the sun set yesterday, Harare was blessed with rain, probably highlighting how women take advantage of the rains to feed their families.
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