Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE Zimbabwe Gender Commission is celebrating a decade of championing gender equality and justice, with the institution confirming to have resolved over 4 000 gender-related cases over the years.
The Mashonaland West Gender Forum hosted in Chinhoyi this Tuesday brought to the spotlight the need for increased gender balance amid concerns of men suffering in silence.
“As traditional leaders, we have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, particularly in addressing gender-based violence in our communities. Their interventions have brought justice and healing to many, especially women and girls who for long suffered in silence. I also want to highlight the growing concern around men who are quietly enduring abuse and feel ashamed to speak out due to societal expectations. Gender-based violence affects everyone, and we must increase awareness and support systems for male victims as well,” traditional leader, Chief Nemakonde said.
“The Zimbabwe Gender Commission is helping expose historical injustices against the girl child, such as child marriages and denial of education. Through advocacy and policy influence, the Commission is promoting equal opportunities in education, leadership, and economic participation, breaking long-standing cycles of marginalisation and ensuring a fairer future for girls,” Institute for Young Women Development official, Mr Kudakwashe Munemo said.
Government says to date, at least over 4000 gender-related cases have been resolved, influencing key initiatives such as the establishment of a dedicated call centre and decentralisation of offices as explained by Zimbabwe Gender Commission chairperson, Dr Nyepudzai Nyangulu.
“While we celebrate institutional achievements, it is also important that we reflect on successes made in the gender sector as a collective over the past decade. Among the key milestones are pivotal legislative reforms which include the Amendment of the Marriages Act (2022) which raised the legal marriage age to 18, ending child marriages and recognised unregistered customary marriages, protecting women from exploitation. Data Protection Act (2021) which strengthens protection of women and children from online violence. Education Amendment Act of 2020, ensuring that girls are not excluded from education due to pregnancy or motherhood and the recently launched National Gender Policy, meant to give effect to constitutional provisions.”
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Marian Chombo weighed in; “Over the past decade, we have witnessed tangible progress. The increased representation of women in leadership positions in government, business, and communities is a testament to our collective efforts. Initiatives that promote education for girls, economic inclusion, and support for women’s empowerment have transformed lives and created new opportunities.
“This forum is especially significant as it is hosted here in Mashonaland West Province, a region with immense agricultural, mining, industrial, and tourism potential. The Mashonaland West Provincial Economic Development Plan outlines our ambitions to harness these resources for sustainable development. However, for us to fully realise this potential, gender equality must be central to our provincial development agenda.”
Meanwhile, the Provincial Gender Forum will be held across the country ahead of the national event to be commemorated under the theme “ZGC @ 10: Reflecting on Achievements and the Future for Gender Equality in Zimbabwe.”
