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Taygeta Zihwi, [email protected]
THE quest for gender equality and inclusivity in Zimbabwe remains a pressing challenge that requires immediate and systematic intervention. Despite notable advancements in gender equality, including legal frameworks such as the Domestic Violence Act (2007) and the Gender Commission Act (2018), there are significant gaps in both implementation and cultural acceptance that hinder progress.
This article aims to analyse the current landscape of gender and inclusion in Zimbabwe, highlight the existing challenges, and provide actionable recommendations for developing a more equitable society based on empirical evidence.
Zimbabwe has made notable strides in promoting gender equality, particularly through the establishment of legal frameworks to address gender-based violence and discrimination. However, the implementation of these laws has often been undermined by deep-rooted sociocultural norms that perpetuate gender inequalities. For example, the Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Survey (2015) reports that nearly 34 percent of women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical violence, a statistic that highlights the urgent need for stronger protective measures and societal transformation.
In addition to gender-based violence, women’s representation in the political and economic spheres remains alarmingly low. Although the Constitution of Zimbabwe mandates that women occupy at least 30 percent of parliamentary seats by 2021, women remain the minority in parliament, underscoring the continued marginalisation of women’s voices in decision-making processes. This gender disparity inhibits inclusive policymaking, resulting in policies that fail to fully address the diverse needs of the population.
To address these critical gaps and advance gender equality, several evidence-based recommendations are put forward. While Zimbabwe has established a strong legal foundation for gender equality, enforcement of these laws remains weak. To strengthen this framework, the Government should invest in comprehensive training for law enforcement officials and members of the judiciary to ensure they are equipped to handle cases of gender-based violence and discrimination. Proper implementation of laws is critical in creating a safer environment for women and girls.
Economic empowerment is a key factor in advancing gender equality. Programmes aimed at providing women with access to microfinance, vocational training, and entrepreneurial support are essential to enhancing their economic status. The International Labour Organisation found that women-led businesses are more likely to reinvest in their communities, leading to broader social development. Therefore, investment in women’s economic independence can have a positive ripple effect on communities.
Education plays a vital role in changing harmful gender norms and fostering a culture of gender equality. A national education campaign targeting both men and women is needed to challenge deeply entrenched stereotypes. This campaign should focus on promoting respect for gender equality and the importance of inclusivity. Incorporating gender studies into school curricula, as suggested by Unesco can lay the foundation for a more equitable future by educating the younger generation on these issues from an early age.
To ensure that women’s voices are heard in decision-making processes, Zimbabwe must introduce and enforce policies that increase female representation in political leadership. Gender quotas for local and national elections would be effective as evidenced in Rwanda, which boasts the highest percentage of women in parliament globally. It shows that quotas can lead to substantial policy changes that benefit all genders. By increasing women’s participation in politics, Zimbabwe can create policies that are more inclusive and reflective of the needs of all citizens.
Effective community engagement is crucial for challenging societal norms and fostering gender equality. Local NGOs, community leaders, and grassroots organisations play a key role in initiating conversations around gender stereotypes and the importance of inclusion. Programmes that celebrate successful female role models can serve as powerful examples to inspire the next generation of female leaders. Engaging communities in these discussions can create a supportive environment for change.
The path toward gender equality and inclusion in Zimbabwe is challenging, but transformative change is within reach. By adopting an evidence-based approach to policy reform and fostering a culture of inclusivity, Zimbabwe can build a society where individuals, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to thrive. Policymakers must act decisively to implement these recommendations, ensuring that gender equality becomes a lived experience for all Zimbabweans, rather than merely an aspiration. Through comprehensive, evidence-driven interventions and a concerted effort to address the root causes of gender inequality, Zimbabwe can pave the way for a more just, equitable, and inclusive future.
λ Taygeta Zihwi is a registered community psychologist intern.
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