Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe has a unique opportunity to drive economic growth by closing the gender employment gap. A recent World Bank report reveals that if women were employed at the same rate as men, the country’s GDP per capita could rise by nearly 6%, from USD 2,156 to USD 2,279.
This highlights the urgent need for gender-inclusive policies to unlock the economic potential of women, particularly those with disabilities.
Peter Bare, Country Director for Sightsavers Zimbabwe, emphasized the importance of tackling both gender and disability barriers in the workplace.
“The gender pay gap in Zimbabwe stands at 5.7%. Limited access to resources and workplace discrimination continue to exclude millions of women, especially those with disabilities, from economic opportunities,” said Bare.
“The combined effects of gender and disability discrimination create multiple, overlapping barriers that push women with disabilities into extreme poverty. We urge global leaders to adopt disability-inclusive policies that can unlock billions in economic potential while advancing gender equality.”
The Economic Impact of Gender Inclusion
Globally, failure to close the gender employment gap is costing economies up to 20% of their potential income. In Zimbabwe—where key industries such as agriculture and mining dominate—integrating more women into the workforce could be transformative.
The informal economy, which makes up 64.1% of Zimbabwe’s total economy, presents another avenue where increased women’s participation could drive substantial growth.
The World Bank report highlights that three-quarters of the economic benefits from closing the gender employment gap could be realized almost immediately, while the remainder would take a generation. This underscores the need for urgent action.
Breaking Barriers for Women with Disabilities
For women with disabilities, the challenges are even greater. Sightsavers has been at the forefront of initiatives to equip women with skills, build confidence, and help them achieve financial independence.
One inspiring example is Michelle Madau, a makeup artist and beautician living with osteogenesis imperfecta. Despite facing significant hurdles, she has become a mentor to other women with disabilities.
“Growing up, I felt misunderstood because of my disability. But I always told myself, ‘You can do this. Don’t listen to what they say,’” said Madau.
Now, she’s empowering others to embrace their independence.
“Hearing other women gain confidence—whether by overcoming fears or starting their own businesses—has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a breath of fresh air.”
A Call for Action
As International Women’s Day on March 8 approaches, and with key global meetings like the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) and the Global Disability Summit (GDS) on the horizon, organizations like Sightsavers are pushing for urgent action.
They are calling on policymakers to implement disability-inclusive approaches that promote gender equality and drive economic growth.
By addressing systemic barriers and fostering a more inclusive workforce, Zimbabwe can not only boost its GDP but also create a more equitable and prosperous society.
About Author
