The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) joins the nation in celebrating Zimbabwe’s 44th Independence Anniversary under the theme “Zim@44: Unity, Peace and Development Towards Vision 2030.”
The Commission recognizes the immense value of this day, a day that marks the culmination of the sacrifices made by our national heroes in the fight for liberation and self-determination. This Independence Day serves as a crucial moment for reflection on the progress we have made towards a truly inclusive and equitable Zimbabwe.
Focus on Gender Equality for National Development
The ZGC applauds Zimbabwe for the progressive Constitution which upholds not only commitment to gender equality and non-discrimination but establishes a mechanism to monitor implementation of the provisions contained herein. The Constitution reiterates commitment to ensuring the fulfilment of the aspirations of the women and girls who fought alongside their male counterparts for independence. Their vision was for a Zimbabwe where all citizens, regardless of gender, could fully participate and contribute to national development.
Call to Action
The theme, “Unity, Peace and Development Towards Vision 2030,” underscores the importance of achieving gender equality as a critical pillar for national progress. The Commission urges all stakeholders, including government, civil society, and the private sector to:
- Prioritize the implementation of policies and programmes that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. This includes addressing existing systemic, legal and cultural barriers that hinder women’s full participation in political, economic, and social spheres in line with Section 56 on gender equality and non-discrimination.
- Invest in initiatives that empower women economically. This can be achieved through, among others, active participation in national development processes as espoused in Section 13 on the protection and enhancement of the right of the people, particularly women, to equal opportunities in development; including ensuring appropriate and adequate measures in creating employment as articulated in Section 14.
- Promote and protect property and land rights of all citizens, including women in the access to, and ownership of property and land, as espoused in Sections 71, 72 and 73, enabling nation-building at multiple levels.
- Protect the right to education and health. This includes ensuring the provision of education to all, including the girl child without discrimination, as outlined in Section 75; and upholding the inalienable right to health expounded in Section 76, which includes addressing issues of maternal health, sexual and reproductive rights among other issues.
- Uphold the rights of women and persons with disabilities as outlined in Section 80 and 82 This means acknowledging the outlawing of all laws, practices and customs that infringe on the rights of women, particularly persons with disability who often bear the brunt of any disproportionate treatment.
- Promote a culture of peace and tolerance that respects the rights of all citizens. Gender-Based Violence remains a major obstacle to development. The Commission calls for a collective effort to eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls in line with Section 51, 52 and 57 on human dignity, personal security and bodily integrity, respecting every individual’s right to privacy.
Building a Brighter Future Together
As we celebrate 44 years of independence, the ZGC remains committed to working with all stakeholders to create a Zimbabwe where women, girls, men and boys can thrive through upholding Section 2 of the National Constitution. By harnessing the collective talent and potential of all our citizens, we can build a more prosperous and equitable future for all in line with the national vision. Together, let’s take action to uphold these sections of the Constitution, ensuring a society where everyone is valued, respected, and given equal opportunities to thrive. Happy Independence Day!
For Gender Equality
For further information, please contact:
ZGC Chairperson, Commissioner Margaret Mukahanana Sangarwe 0712214203/ 0772869214, or Chief Executive Officer Virginia Muwanigwa 0712899543/ 0772327955
Download Link Zimbabwe Gender Commission Independence Press Statement
