By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and its Platform for Action, Zimbabwe has made remarkable progress in gender equality and women’s empowerment, including the development of progressive laws and policies aimed at ending gender-based violence (GBV).
This was highlighted by the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Monica Mutsvangwa at the launch of the 16 Days of Activism against GBV today.
This year’s campaign is particularly significant, coinciding with the upcoming thirtieth anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the Beijing Declaration in 2025.
The international theme for the 2024 campaign, “Towards 30 years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” serves as a vital reminder for all nations.
Minister Mutsvangwa pointed out that this theme is not only a call to member states but also a prompt for essential discussions and actions that uphold the rights and dignity of all women.
As she launched the campaign, she highlighted Zimbabwe’s significant legislative milestones, such as the adoption of the Constitution, which enshrines gender equality, and crucial laws like the Domestic Violence Act of 2007 and the Labour Amendment Act.
These legal frameworks not only provide protection but also empower women, reinforcing the country’s commitment to gender parity and the eradication of GBV.
Key initiatives, such as the Zimbabwe National Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence (2023-2030), outline a comprehensive plan for tackling GBV through coordinated, multi-sectoral approaches.
“This strategy aims to mobilise community resources, educate the public, and enhance service delivery to victims, demonstrating Zimbabwe’s proactive stance on the issue,” Mutsvangwa added.
A landmark achievement is the establishment of the High-Level Political Compact on Ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices (2021-2030), launched under the leadership of His Excellency the President.
“This initiative demonstrates our government’s strong political will to combat GBV and our commitment to ending harmful traditions that perpetuate violence against women,” Minister Mutsvangwa stated.
Innovative measures have also been implemented to improve access to justice and support for survivors of GBV. The decentralisation of the Legal Aid Directorate provides legal assistance for marginalized populations, while the introduction of virtual courts and the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) enhances judicial efficiency nationwide.
In addition, the establishment of GBV Call Centers and toll-free numbers ensures that victims, especially women and children, can readily access vital services. The initiatives led by First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa are also crucial for expanding outreach and support mechanisms within communities.
As Zimbabwe observe these 16 Days of Activism, Minister Mutsvangwa’s emphasis on the nation’s resilience and commitment to eradicating GBV underscores the Government’s determination to safeguard the rights of women and girls in the country and achieve not only equality but equity.