By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day under the theme “Accelerate Action: Advancing Gender Equality Now,” the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has highlighted the urgent need for decisive steps to enhance women’s participation in politics, the economy, and society at large.
In a statement marking the occasion, ZESN expressed concern over the declining representation of women in Zimbabwe’s National Assembly, noting a drop from 14.4% in 2018 to 11% in the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
This decline underscores the persistent systemic and structural barriers preventing women from fully engaging in the political landscape.
“Women’s underrepresentation in decision-making weakens their voice in shaping policies that impact their lives. Urgent action is needed to create more opportunities for women in political spaces,” ZESN said.
Challenges and Solutions
ZESN pointed to key challenges, including violence against women in elections (VAWIE), particularly cyberbullying, which has worsened with the rise of social media platforms. The Network called for gender-sensitive policies, including gender quotas and protective measures, to encourage more women to run for office without fear of intimidation or discrimination.
Beyond politics, ZESN stressed the importance of women’s economic empowerment as a pathway to achieving gender equality. Access to economic opportunities, skills training, and entrepreneurship was identified as vital in fostering a more inclusive and thriving economy.
The Role of Education in Empowerment
Education was also highlighted as a crucial tool for women’s empowerment. ZESN urged stakeholders to ensure that women and girls have access to quality education and vocational training, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and actively participate in democratic processes.
“Informed women are more likely to engage in civic activities, strengthening democracy and promoting gender equality in decision-making,” the statement read.
Call to Action
ZESN called for multi-stakeholder action, including government efforts, to break down barriers preventing women and girls from achieving their full potential. This includes ensuring safety, equal opportunities, and leadership support across all sectors.
As Zimbabwe celebrates International Women’s Day, ZESN urged all stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to gender equality and work towards a society free from violence, discrimination, and limitations on women’s progress.
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