By Nyasha Dube
On December 5, 2024, Zvishavane joined the global community in commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with a vibrant event held in ward 19 at Oreti Primary School, that highlighted the local challenges faced by women.
The commemmorations were held under the theme “Unite to end violence against women.”
Representing the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Provincial Development Officer. Christina Sithole delivered a powerful message underscoring the ministry’s commitment to eradicating GBV and empowering survivors.
She emphasized on the importance of creating a violence-free society.
“Creating a society free from violence is our collective responsibility. Our cultural values and practices have never at any time condoned violence,” she said.
The event brought attention to the unique challenges faced by women in Zvishavane, including physical violence perpetrated by small-scale miners, harmful traditional practices, and an alarming increase in drug abuse that fuels violence.
In Zvishavane, rural women are facing significant challenges related to gender-based violence (GBV), including physical violence, sexual assault, emotional abuse, and economic control, particularly from small-scale miners known as makorokoza. The community is witnessing a disturbing rise in drug and substance abuse, further exacerbating incidents of GBV among the youth.
Women play a crucial role in agriculture, contributing to food security and household income, yet they struggle with limited access to land, resources, and decision-making power, hindering their productivity and economic growth. Additionally, the impacts of climate change, such as recurring hailstorms, threaten their livelihoods and infrastructure.
To address these pressing issues, Sithole called for collective effort, urging stakeholders to support local women through legal, social and economic measures.
Key resolutions also emerged from the commemorations, focusing on legal reforms and support to strengthen the judicial system, ensuring harsher penalties for perpetrators and facilitating swift resolutions of GBV cases to provide timely justice for survivors.
“We must strengthen accountability to prevent and address gender-based violence and reinforce the principles set out in national and global frameworks,” Mrs. Sithole stated.
Another major focus was on economic empowerment, promoting vocational training and access to funding for women to foster financial independence and reduce their vulnerabilities to violence.
“Economic empowerment of women is integral to any sustainable approach to eradicating Gender-Based Violence,” she reiterated. Furthermore, the event called for inclusive leadership, advocating for expanded women’s representation in decision-making roles, with traditional leaders playing a pivotal role in promoting gender equality.
Sithole also highlighted the importance of community-based solutions, encouraging partnerships with traditional and religious leaders to challenge harmful practices and create supportive environments for victims. She pointed out the government’s efforts in providing one-stop centers and safe shelters for survivors, along with initiatives like the Women’s Development Fund and the Zimbabwe Women’s Microfinance Bank.
“Your leadership can inspire communities to develop their own systems and strategies for addressing GBV, promoting a culture of respect and equality,” she added.
The ministry commended traditional leaders, community members, and local organizations for their contributions to raising awareness and supporting survivors, with Sithole urging all stakeholders to continue their advocacy.
“The fight against GBV is a collective responsibility. Together, we can create a safe and dignified community for everyone,” she said.
The event concluded with renewed commitments to end GBV and promote gender equality, fostering hope for a more inclusive and violence-free future in Zvishavane.