Story by John Nhandara
HARARE-THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has launched its gender and disability inclusion policies, as well a strategic plan for 2025 to 2029, with focus on fostering democratic electoral processes in the country.
Unveiled in Harare this Wednesday, the new framework sets out to improve participation for all citizens, with particular focus on ensuring persons with disabilities and women have equal access to voting, candidate registration, voter education, and accessible polling infrastructure.
“Successful implementation hinges on the activated participation of all stakeholders. We want to affirm our commitment to ensuring every citizen is afforded an opportunity to exercise their democratic rights. The gender policy provides equal opportunities for men and women to actively participate in democratic elections, which advance gender equality and equality,” ZEC Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba said.
The strategic plan and policies are aligned with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which places emphasis on inclusive governance and social justice.
“The policies, including the strategic plan, are tailor-made to enhance equal participation of all stakeholders in electoral processes. It is in sync with NDS1 and in tandem with Vision 2030. The vision can only become a reality through addressing gender parity. Gender mainstreaming is important because it ensures men and women have equal rights in society,” the Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Norbert Mazungunye said.
The launch event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, the National Disability Board, UN Women, and other civil society organisations dedicated to inclusive governance.
ZEC says it will now embark on a stakeholder engagement drive to operationalise the newly launched frameworks ahead of the next electoral cycle.
