This Christmas, the people of Ward 2 in Mbire are set to celebrate joyfully as families have pledged to slaughter goats from a goat-rearing project initiated by the women, all in support of a community free of gender-based violence.
Historically, violence against women and girls was prevalent and culturally accepted in this community.
Husbands often resorted to severe assaults, such as tying their wives to trees and beating them up, young girls were married off early, and victims of sexual violence frequently remained silent due to fear of backlash.
In response to this suffering, Katswe Sistahood launched a goat-rearing project aimed at economically empowering women while providing resources for victims of gender-based violence to access legal support.
The initiative began with a group of 10 women who started with just four goats, which quickly grew to 40.
This success allowed the project to expand to four additional groups, each comprising over 25 women.
Motivated by the project's impact, men in the ward initiated their own goat-rearing farming.
Mr Joshua Munatsi, the ward secretary, noted that men felt challenged by their wives' success, which spurred them to take part.
"I am leading the goat project and we have seen significant growth. This Christmas, we will grill goats from our project to celebrate the positive changes brought about by awareness of gender-based violence," he said.
Initially, many men resisted the project, fearing it would empower their wives too much. However, the community gradually recognised the importance of living in peace, leading to a decline in gender-based violence. The project has also provided economic benefits, allowing women to contribute to household incomes.
One of the pioneers, Mrs Estina Chitswi from Maranda Village, shared that the project began in 2019, with some setbacks, including theft and predation.
Nevertheless, the remaining members persevered, and by 2021, the goats had multiplied to 32. "We prioritised women affected by domestic violence, giving them the opportunity to educate themselves," she said.
Mrs Precious Nyatande from Kumirai Village emphasised that before the goat project, women lacked knowledge about economic independence. Now, as part of an internal savings and lending scheme with 31 members, they recently shared US$3 000 among themselves.
"These initiatives have allowed me to realise my dream of educating my child," she remarked.
Mrs Shylet Ncube from Makwara Village recounted how cotton production had led to gender-based violence, as husbands controlled the finances.
"Now I manage my money, and we support our children's education," she said.
Miss Chengetayi Chininga, head of operations at Katswe Sistahood, highlighted their dual focus on preventing gender-based violence and providing sustainable livelihoods for women. Active in Wards 2, 3, 4, 11, and 12, their projects empower survivors of gender-based violence and foster educational opportunities for children.
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"We work closely with indigenous communities and their leaders to raise awareness about rights and the impacts of climate change," she explained.
Addressing language barriers, they ensure climate communication is accessible for better understanding.
As the Mbire community prepares for a memorable Christmas, the goat project stands as a testament to resilience and empowerment.
By fostering economic independence and challenging cultural norms, the initiative not only supports survivors of gender-based violence but also nurtures a brighter future for the entire community.
