By Nyasha Dube
Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCOZ) has embarked on a mission to sensitize traditional leaders on issues of women empowerment, and lobby for their support in realising gender equality in rural communities.
The organization was in Mapanzure, Zvishavane yesterday for a Male Engagement Meeting, with councillors, village heads and the Chief.
Speaking at the sidelines of the meeting, Zvishavane focal person Nancy Bhachi emphasized on the importance of engaging traditional leaders as they are the pillars of community and the custodians of customary laws.
Traditional leaders welcomed the program and pledged to involve women in all development processes as well as ensuring that women are protected from violence.
Chief Mapanzure said the law on gender equality must not be used as a weapon but a unifier to ensure community development.
WCOZ also sensitized leaders on the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR1325) which seeks to promote peace, protect women and prevent violence in communities as well as ensure that women participate in community development at all levels.