Zim Commemorates International Women’s Day with Re...

Zim Commemorates International Women’s Day with Renewed Commitment to Gender Equality

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe today joined the rest of the world in commemorating International Women’s Day, with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

This year’s celebrations were held under the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” The theme underscores the need to accelerate efforts toward achieving gender equality and ensuring that women and girls enjoy equal rights and opportunities in all spheres of life.

International Women’s Day, officially recognised by the United Nations in 1975, is observed annually on March 8 to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

This year’s event also marked the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark global commitment to advancing women’s rights.

Speaking at the event, Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Per Lindgärde, commended Zimbabwe’s progress in promoting gender equality, particularly in education.

"The Constitution upholds gender equality and non-discrimination. Education for girls has improved, and we now have a literacy rate of 92.7 percent among young women aged 15 to 24 years. Changes in the Education Act now ensure that pregnant girls can remain in school," he said.

United Nations Resident Coordinator, Edward Kallon, acknowledged Zimbabwe’s efforts in increasing women’s participation in leadership and economic empowerment.

"Zimbabwe has shown promising progress in gender equality. Policies supporting women have increased, and their participation in leadership and public life has grown, with women occupying prominent roles in government and the private sector. The Zimbabwe Women’s Microfinance Bank has also played a significant role in empowering women economically and providing necessary support to women entrepreneurs," he said.

Senator Monica Mutsvangwa also emphasised Zimbabwe’s commitment to gender equality through policy and legal frameworks.

"Our Constitution guarantees equal rights for women and men, and we have implemented various policies and programs aimed at promoting gender equality and empowerment," she said.