Unlocking workplace opportunities for women could ...

Unlocking workplace opportunities for women could boost Zimbabwe’s economy by almost 6%: World Bank

Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe stands on the brink of a significant economic opportunity: closing the gender employment gap could boost the country’s GDP per capita by nearly 6 percent, according to a recent report by the World Bank. If women were employed at the same rate as men, Zimbabwe’s GDP per capita could rise from USD 2,156 to USD 2,279, representing a 5.7 percent increase.

This potential growth stresses the urgent need for gender-inclusive policies to unlock the untapped economic potential of women, particularly those with disabilities.

In an interview the country director for Sightsavers Zimbabwe Mr Peter Bare emphasized the critical role of addressing gender and disability barriers in the workplace.

“The gender pay gap in Zimbabwe is 5.7 percent lack of access to resources and workplace barriers continue to exclude millions of women, particularly those with disabilities, from economic opportunities,” he said.

“The combined impact of disability and gender discrimination creates multiple, overlapping barriers that push women with disabilities into extreme poverty. We urge global leaders to commit to disability-inclusive approaches that could unlock billions in economic potential while advancing gender equality,” said Bare.

Globally, the failure to close the gender employment gap is costing countries up to a fifth of their potential income, according to the World Bank.

In Zimbabwe, where the economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and mining, integrating more women into the workforce could have transformative effects. The informal economy, which accounts for 64.1 percent of Zimbabwe’s total economy is another area where women’s participation could drive growth.

The World Bank report highlights that three-quarters of the economic gains from closing the gender employment gap could be realized almost immediately, with the remainder taking a generation to materialize. This makes the case for urgent action even more compelling.

For women with disabilities, the barriers to employment are even more pronounced. Sightsavers, an organization working to empower women with disabilities, has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges. Through its programs, the organization helps women gain skills, build confidence, and achieve financial independence.

Michelle Madau, a make-up artist and beautician with osteogenesis imperfecta, is one such example. Despite facing significant challenges due to her condition, Michelle has become a mentor to other women with disabilities.

“Growing up, I felt misunderstood because of my disability but would tell myself, ‘You can do this. Don’t listen to what they say,’” she said.

Now, as a mentor, she is passionate about empowering others.

“Hearing other women gain confidence and independence, whether by overcoming fears or starting their own business, has been incredibly rewarding. It’s been a breath of fresh air. It’s been so amazing.”

As the world observes the International Women’s Month in March, and with global meetings such as the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) and the Global Disability Summit (GDS) on the horizon, organizations like Sightsavers are calling for urgent action.

They are urging policymakers to adopt disability-inclusive approaches that not only promote gender equality but also unlock significant economic potential.

The path to economic empowerment for women in Zimbabwe is clear. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering an inclusive workforce, the nation could not only boost its GDP but also create a more equitable society.