By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare, Zimbabwe – Demonstrating its strong commitment to gender equality and inclusive development, the Zimbabwean government announced on Tuesday the approval of the proposed National Gender Policy (2025) during a Cabinet meeting.
Addressing the post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere highlighted the importance of the new policy, describing it as a pivotal national framework that will guide efforts to advance gender equality throughout all sectors of Zimbabwean society.
“Cabinet considered and approved the proposed National Gender Policy. The National Gender Policy (2025) aims to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in Zimbabwe, recognising the diversity of different groups and the need to address stereotypes and prejudices about gender roles,” Minister Muswere stated.
He emphasized that the policy aligns closely with the Zimbabwe Constitution, which explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sex, gender, disability, and marital status. Furthermore, the policy draws inspiration from regional, continental, and international legal frameworks dedicated to gender equity.
Dr. Muswere elaborated that the policy recognizes Zimbabwe’s diverse population and explicitly seeks to dismantle harmful stereotypes and prejudices associated with traditional gender roles. It establishes a comprehensive framework to incorporate gender considerations into all levels of policy-making and program implementation, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Guided by principles of equality, non-discrimination, inclusivity, accountability, and respect for cultural, religious, and customary practices, the policy adopts an intersectional approach to promote justice and equal opportunities for all, including persons living with disabilities.
The NGP 2025 outlines ten priority policy goals designed as catalysts for achieving gender equality. These include Legal Justice and Constitutional Rights, Gender-Balanced Leadership and Decision-Making, Equitable Economic Empowerment, and Access to Sustainable Energy.
Additional focus areas encompass Gender-Responsive Health and Pandemic Resilience, Equal Access to Education, Innovation and Skills Development, Gender-Based Violence Prevention, Climate Action and Resilience, Disability Rights, and Equal Access to Information, Media, and Digital Technologies.
Each goal is informed by a detailed analysis of current gender disparities and includes specific objectives and strategies aimed at closing the existing gaps. Minister Muswere noted that the policy reflects a holistic strategy to integrate gender perspectives into national development initiatives, from leadership representation to climate and digital development.
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission will oversee the implementation of the National Gender Policy, ensuring progress is monitored, accountability is maintained, and corrective measures are taken where necessary.