The United Nations has commended Zimbabwe for its progress in advancing gender equality, aligning with the Beijing +30 commitments -- a global effort to renew pledges for equality and women's empowerment.
UN Resident Coordinator Ambassador Edward Kallon acknowledged Zimbabwe's progress at the launch meeting of the gender equality and women's empowerment stakeholder feedback and Beijing +30 commemoration campaign in Harare yesterday.
"The United Nations in Zimbabwe is pleased to join hands with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, civil society, and development partners as we take stock of one of the most comprehensive global policy frameworks and blueprints for action for the empowerment of women everywhere, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Zimbabwe has made commendable progress toward advancing gender equality in alignment with Beijing +30 commitments," said Ambassador Kallon.
He said gender equality is central to the UN's three pillars: human rights, development, and peace and security.
"A significant milestone has been achieved through the collaborative efforts of the UN, Government of Zimbabwe, and the EU -- for example, under the Spotlight Initiative. Key achievements include the enhancement of the DNA laboratory at the Zimbabwe Republic Police headquarters to enable law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable, providing critical support to survivors of gender-based violence. This has augmented the legal framework and integrated services available to those in need."
Ambassador Kallon also highlighted the empowerment of women's movements and initiatives that engage youth, traditional leaders, and men and boys in fostering a proactive culture against violence toward women and girls. Women Affairs Community Small Medium Enterprise Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa launched the Beijing Plus 30 National Commemorations campaign, urging women to engage in national politics.
"President Mnangagwa has demonstrated a strong political commitment to eliminate violence against women and girls and harmful practices in Zimbabwe.
"Transformative initiatives for women's economic empowerment have also been implemented, including the establishment of maker spaces, safe markets, climate-smart initiatives, industrial hubs, processing plants, and machinery provision," she said. To enhance women's participation in decision-making and leadership across various sectors, several initiatives are underway, guided by the Women in Politics and Decision-Making Strategy.
"As a result, the country has witnessed a positive trajectory and gradual increase in women's representation in public sector decision-making roles," Minister Mutsvangwa noted.
She asserted that Zimbabwe subscribes to the Beijing Declaration and remains committed to implementing its objectives and targets.
"As the world observes the 30th anniversary of the 4th World Conference on Women and the adoption of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Zimbabwe joins the international community in commemorating Beijing +30. The National Commemorations serve as a critical lead-up to the Global Commemorations scheduled for 2025, coinciding with the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women."
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The Minister called on all stakeholders -- governments, development partners, civil society organisations, the private sector, and grassroots organisations -- to unite in pursuit of the ambitions outlined in the Beijing Declaration.
"Throughout the coming months leading to the anniversary, the commemorative campaign will feature a range of activities, including high-level events, advocacy campaigns at national and sub-national levels, and grassroots mobilisation."
Herald Editor Victoria Ruzvidzo, participated in a panel discussion, outlining the media's role in advancing gender equality in line with Beijing +30 commitments.
