PRESS STATEMENT: HEROES DAY
12 August 2024
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission Commemorates Heroes Day
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission joins the nation in commemorating Heroes Day, a vital occasion to honor the gallant sons and daughters who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of our country. Their bravery and dedication laid the foundation for the liberty and freedom we enjoy today.
Heroes Day is not just a time for reflection, but a moment to reaffirm our commitment to the principles for which our heroes fought and some died. The success of the liberation struggle was attained through women and men fighting the enemy as one. The spirit of unity and resilience demonstrated by these individuals serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to advance gender equality and social justice. By confronting stereotypes, dismantling systemic barriers, and fostering inclusive policies, we honour the legacy of our heroes by working towards a truly equitable society.
As we commemorate this significant day, let us also remember that the ongoing struggle for gender equality is an extension of the fight for freedom and justice. That we can never feel free as long as more than half of the population does not have equal access to socio-cultural, economic and political opportunities in line with our Constitution.
The Zimbabwe Gender Commission, as per our Constitutional mandate, is dedicated to ensuring that the principle of equality extends to all corners of our nation, by ensuring equitable participation and representation in decision-making and as equal beneficiaries of national resources.. Our mission is to create a society where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our shared future.
Zimbabwe’s path to independence was forged through years of relentless struggle against colonial oppression. The heroes we commemorate today endured unimaginable hardships and made the ultimate sacrifice so that future generations could live in freedom and dignity. Their legacy is therefore woven into the very fabric of our nation, and their bravery continues to inspire us as we navigate the challenges of our time.
Today, ZGC reaffirms commitment to the ideals of freedom, equality, justice, and unity that the Heroes commemorations represent. Let us honor our heroes by dedicating ourselves to the ideals they fought for, and by working together to ensure that their vision of a just and equitable society becomes a reality for all Zimbabweans.
As we commemorate Heroes day, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission issues a call to action:
- Government, Civil society and communities to Advance Gender Equality: Commit to dismantling systemic barriers and challenging stereotypes to ensure that gender equality is fully realized across all sectors of society.
- Government to continue to Promote Inclusive Policies: Adopt and implement policies that foster inclusivity and equity, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
- Leaders and decision makers across Zimbabwe to Champion Equal Opportunities: Actively work towards creating environments where equal opportunities exist not only in principle but in practice, regardless of gender, and where every person is valued and respected for their contributions.
For Gender Equality
For media inquiries and further information, please contact For more information, contact ZGC Chairperson, Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana Sangarwe 0712214203/ 0772869214, or Chief Executive Officer Virginia Muwanigwa 0712899543/ 0772327955
Download link: ZGC Heroes Day Press Statement 2024
