Story by Oleen Ndori
A joyous atmosphere engulfed the auditorium of the ZANU PF Headquarters in Harare as the Women’s League met for its first 2025 National Assembly meeting.
Addressing the gathering, the ZANU PF President and First Secretary, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa, reaffirmed the central role of the Women’s League in the ruling party, emphasising the need for continued empowerment of women to achieve national development goals.
“As the Government, we stand committed to overcoming the challenges encountered by women and communities as a whole. To this end, we continue to prioritise the implementation of empowerment programmes and projects for women. This is a critical building block for the development and growth of our nation. When women are empowered, families are supported, communities are developed, and the economy grows,” the President said.
“Together, including all the Leagues and Government, we must continue to cooperate closely to eradicate poverty and inequality, for a higher quality of life for our people. No one else has that responsibility to build our country. We must develop and build it ourselves.”
President Mnangagwa said the theme of the meeting is a call to action towards national development.
“The theme of this Session, ‘Breaking Barriers, Futures, Women’s journey towards Vision 2030′ is a call to action and guides us all on the critical importance of diligently executing the work of the Party and Government. I thus, salute the women of this great nation for their selfless commitment, love for our country and hard work.
“Today, women are invaluable contributors to our ongoing journey of modernising, industrialising, and building our country. You are playing your part in various sectors to transform the political, social and economic development of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe despite challenges caused by illegal economic sanctions imposed on our country, which have affected women and children. The Women’s League has always supported and defended the Party and this is commendable.”
The Head of State further challenged women to use their positions to ensure that no one and no place is left behind in the true essence of the inclusive development agenda of Government.
“I challenge you, the women, to use these positions for the strategic overall well-being of all women. No place or woman must be left behind. You must help women to have access to education and skills training, economic resources, entrepreneurship support, leadership development, and mentorship. Future women leaders from all communities should continue to be nurtured and developed.
“As we march forward to Vision 2030, all barriers that hinder women’s progress, such as gender-based violence and child marriages, among others, must be broken. On its part, our ZANU PF-led government, is enforcing laws and support systems to protect women. Further, evident projects are ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services and education facilities in both rural and urban areas. We have availed opportunities for more women to acquire skills and knowledge through Vocational Training Centres, Tertiary Colleges, and Universities.”
With Manicaland Province set to host this year’s ZANU PF Annual Conference, the outcomes of this indaba will be part of the conference agenda.
