Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) has called for accelerated action to achieve gender equality and women’s empowerment.
In a statement on Saturday to commemorate International Women’s Day 2025, the ZGC emphasized the important and urgency of consolidating progress made over the past decade, and addressing persistent gender inequalities that continue to hinder the full realization of women’s rights.
The Commission highlighted the need for expedited implementation of constitutional provisions on gender equality, the eradication of harmful practices, and the dismantling of structural barriers that limit women’s participation in decision-making, economic empowerment, and access to justice.
The Commission stated that this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, challenges all sectors of society to intensify efforts towards equal rights, opportunities, and power, ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind in the journey towards inclusive development.
“Zimbabwe’s Constitution provides a robust framework for gender equality, with Section 17 mandating the State to promote full gender balance, including equal representation of women in leadership positions.
“Section 56 prohibits discrimination based on sex and gender, while Section 80 guarantees women’s equal rights in political, economic, and social spheres. However, the ZGC noted that the full implementation of these provisions remains a challenge,” the commission said.
It stressed the importance of taking deliberate, accelerated measures such as establishing accountability mechanisms, increasing resources for women’s leadership training, and adopting binding quotas to achieve gender parity.
The commission also called for the prioritization of advocacy for a Gender Equality Law to give life to the comprehensive constitutional provisions on gender.
The 2025 commemoration coincides with the Zimbabwe Gender Commission’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade of unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality.
Since its establishment in 2015, the Commission has championed transformative changes in partnership with the government, civil society, and international stakeholders, playing a pivotal role in promoting women’s rights and fostering an inclusive society.
New Ziana
