Mutsvangwa calls for protection of women against bullying

Harare (New Ziana) – A government minister has called for support systems to protect women that achieve high positions in society from all forms of bullying and prejudices.

Admitting to being a victim of cyber bulling and other prejudices of society, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa said there is widespread cyber bullying and negative tones in mainstream media that seek to put down ambitious and talented women in the country.

Speaking at a dinner to celebrate the appointment of Virginia Mabiza as Zimbabwe’s first female Attorney General, Mutsvangwa said Mabiza’s appointment was “a momentous step forward in promoting gender equality, empowering women and harnessing the talents and perspectives of all members of our society”.

“The appointment of women into key positions of power and influence is not only recognition of their capabilities but also a testament to the belief that diversity strengthens our nation,” she said.

“By ensuring women have a seat at the table where important decisions are made, we tap into a wealth of talent, creativity and unique perspectives that (have) been under-represented for far too long.”

She said Mabiza’s appointment is testament to her talent, hard work and perseverance and had helped shatter barriers and set an example for future generations.

“The significance of these appointments cannot be overstated. They send a powerful message to all women across our country-that their voices matter, their contributions are valued and their potential is limitless,” said Mutsvangwa. “May your journey continue to inspire others and may your legacy be one of progress, equality and a more just society for all.”

“Throughout the years, women have fought tirelessly for their rights, for their voices to be heard and their contribution to be recognized. Today, we witness the culmination of those efforts as we applaud the appointment of the first female Attorney General. This is not just a victory for her, but a victory for all women who have aspired to reach the highest echelons of power and influence,” Mutsvangwa said.

“Your appointment sends a powerful message to young girls everywhere that they can aspire to any position, that their dreams are valid and their potential is limitless.”

She expressed the hope that Mabiza’s appointment as the legal advisor to government, a momentous occasion in the legislative and general history of the country, will see more pro-women, gender mainstreamed legislation as the nation promulgates new laws under her guidance.

Mutsvangwa applauded President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wisdom in appointing more women to strategic positions across all sectors of society, giving examples of Prosecutor General Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo, and Dr Tsitsi Choruma of the Public Service Commission, Chipo Mutasa who chairs the Mutapa Investment Fund and a number of permanent secretaries.

While celebrating this notable achievement, women have suffered setbacks in other spheres such as the decline in the number of female parliamentarians in the August general elections with women representation going down to 11 percent from 14 percent, and an increase in cases of gender-based violence.

New Ziana