By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
The United Nations in Zimbabwe, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and development partners, today officially launched the Beijing +30 initiative at the Golden Conifer, marking three decades since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was adopted.
UN Resident Coordinator, Mr Edward Kallon, highlighted Zimbabwe’s progress in advancing gender equality, citing transformative efforts like the Spotlight Initiative, funded by a $34 million EU contribution, which has strengthened support for survivors of gender-based violence and empowered women’s movements.
While celebrating milestones, Mr Kallon urged accelerated action, emphasizing alarming global gender disparities, including violence against women, leadership gaps, and poverty.
“At the current rate, gender parity in national legislatures won’t be reached before 2063,” he cautioned.
He called for collective action, urging government, civil society, and grassroots communities to transform policy into tangible results for women and girls, reaffirming the Beijing Declaration as a timeless blueprint for achieving gender equality.
Mr Kallong congratulated Zimbabwe and its partners, who have supported progress in implementing commitments on GEWE.
“I additionally applaud the leadership of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs for bringing us together to rally around the Beijing Platform for Action at national level.
“Achieving the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action calls for collective action, coordination, and collaboration. The UN is steadfast in its commitment to gender equality, championing a Gender Equality Acceleration Plan to ensure all UN initiatives prioritize gender responsiveness.
“This commitment aligns with the objectives of the Beijing Declaration, reaffirming our dedication to realizing gender equality worldwide,” Mr Kallon said.
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