The Government of Zimbabwe has called on communities, civil society, and local organisations to join efforts aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls as a cornerstone for sustainable development.
Speaking at the 70th annual Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) Side Event in New York, Zanu-PF Secretary for Women’s Affairs and President of the Senate, Mabel Chinomona, applauded the Government under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa for its commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women.
Senator Chinomona commended the Government for initiatives aimed at eliminating gender-based violence, ending child marriages, and addressing drug and substance abuse, which remain major barriers to women’s empowerment and economic emancipation.
“While laws and policies are essential, true transformation occurs when communities embrace positive cultural values and challenge practices that disadvantage women and girls,” Chinomona said.
She further highlighted that Zimbabwe’s approach seeks not to discard culture, but to harness its positive values as a vehicle for social change.
“Culture can guide us in shaping attitudes and behaviours that respect the rights of women and girls and enable inclusive growth.
“Empowering women is not just a legal obligation, but a collective responsibility. Communities have the power to transform social norms and build a more just and equitable society,” she said.
Zimbabwe continues to advance gender equality as a national priority, recognising that inclusive social and economic development is only possible when all citizens, particularly women and girls, are empowered to reach their full potential.
The initiative encourages, traditional leaders, local Organisations and the community to address harmful social norms such as gender-based violence, child marriage, and unequal access to opportunities, while leveraging culture as a foundation for social cohesion and empowerment.
