Michelle C Bonzo Brings
In the heart of Africa lies Zimbabwe, a nation rich in history, resilience and potential. As the country charts its course towards Vision 2030, aiming to become an upper-middle-income economy, it faces the significant challenge and opportunity of unlocking the full potential of all its citizens, particularly women and girls. Recognizing the intrinsic link between sustainable development, national prosperity and gender equality is crucial to this journey. The Beijing +30 review offers a critical opportunity for Zimbabwe to reflect on its progress, reaffirm its commitments and accelerate its march towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive.
The significance of the Beijing +30 review cannot be overstated in both global and African contexts. Thirty years ago, the world united in Beijing to affirm that gender equality is a fundamental human right and a catalyst for sustainable development. The Beijing Platform for Action’s groundbreaking framework outlined a comprehensive agenda to unlock the potential of women and girls across 12 critical areas, including education, health, economic participation, leadership and violence prevention. As we commemorate three decades of progress, the Beijing +30 review serves as a call to action, urging accelerated progress toward a more equitable future.
For Africa, the agenda is clear. The continent’s Agenda 2063 envisions an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its people, with women and youth playing pivotal roles. As an active participant in this continental vision, Zimbabwe recognizes that its development cannot be complete without the full inclusion and empowerment of its women and girls. The convergence of the Beijing +30 review with Africa’s Agenda 2063 underscores the continent’s collective commitment to leveraging gender equality as a catalyst for economic growth, social cohesion and political stability.
Nonetheless Zimbabwe’s aspirations, as outlined in Vision 2030 aim to transform the nation into a prosperous, empowered, and inclusive society. The country’s inaugural National Development Strategy (NDS1), launched in 2021, emphasizes sustainable economic growth, good governance, social development and regional integration. A key aspect of these strategies is the recognition that gender equality is both a goal and a catalyst for achieving broader development objectives. NDS1 explicitly commits to reducing gender disparities, promoting women’s economic empowerment and combating violence against women and girls. It envisions a Zimbabwe where women and men have equal access to opportunities, resources and decision-making platforms.
However, the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) should build on the foundational achievements of its predecessor by integrating gender mainstreaming across every sector of the economy and society. This strategic initiative should prioritize innovation while empowering young women, a vital demographic in shaping the future as active drivers of change in their communities. Zimbabwean women are hopeful that NDS2 will not only reaffirm the nation’s commitment to achieving gender justice but also translate this commitment into tangible and effective actions across all strategic pillars, including education, health, economic empowerment and governance.
Women and girls in Zimbabwe are hopeful that this comprehensive framework will prioritize dismantling the systemic barriers that have historically marginalized women, creating pathways for equal opportunities in leadership roles, entrepreneurship and access to resources. By integrating gender considerations into every aspect of national development, NDS2 can effectively address issues such as gender-based violence, unequal pay and limited political representation. This collective optimism is rooted in the belief that with genuine political will, strategic investments in women-centered programs and inclusive policy implementation that addresses the unique challenges faced by women and girls Zimbabwe can accelerate its progress toward gender equality. Such advancements would transform societal norms and empower women and girls to participate fully in the nation’s socio-economic development.
However, actualizing these aspirations requires more than policy declarations; it demands collective action, societal transformation, and unwavering commitment. The Beijing +30 review offers Zimbabwe a valuable opportunity to assess progress, identify gaps and chart a renewed course toward realizing its national and continental visions. Zimbabwe’s future hinges on its youth, with over 60% of the population under 25 and women, who make up nearly 52% of the population. These demographics are not just statistics; they are the foundation of Zimbabwe’s potential. Young women in particular, embody resilience, innovation and hope, excelling as students, entrepreneurs, farmers, leaders and change makers. Despite their potential they many faces systemic barriers, including limited access to quality education, early marriages, gender-based violence, unemployment, and restrictive societal norms. Addressing these challenges is crucial for both individual empowerment and national progress. Empowered young women become catalysts for economic growth, social stability and cultural transformation.
The Beijing +30 review underscores the importance of investing in young women’s education, health, and leadership to unlock their full potential and harness their capacity as future leaders. Education is the cornerstone of empowerment. Zimbabwe has made notable progress in expanding access to primary and secondary education. However, disparities persist, particularly for girls in rural areas, girls with disabilities, and those from marginalized communities. The review encourages the country to prioritize inclusive education, vocational training and digital literacy for young women, preparing them for a knowledge-driven economy aligned with Vision 2030.
Economic participation is crucial to achieving gender equality. Zimbabwe’s NDS1 emphasizes creating an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs, increasing women’s participation in formal employment, and closing the gender wage gap. The review reinforces the importance of gender-responsive economic policies, access to credit, property rights and mentorship programs. Empowered women contribute significantly to poverty reduction, food security and innovation. The health and reproductive rights of women and girls are also essential for their empowerment. Zimbabwe has faced challenges related to maternal health, HIV/AIDS and access to reproductive services. The Beijing +30 review highlights the need to invest in healthcare infrastructure, awareness campaigns and social protection programs to ensure women’s well-being and autonomy.
Women’s representation in leadership positions remains below global and continental targets. Zimbabwe’s commitments to gender parity in parliament and government are vital. The review emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for women’s political participation and leadership development, fostering an environment where women’s voices shape policy and community decisions.
Gender-based violence (GBV) persists as a pervasive issue. The review calls for strengthened legal frameworks, community engagement and survivor support systems. Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat GBV must be intensified, ensuring that women and girls live free from fear and violence.
Achieving gender equality is a collective effort. Civil society organizations in Zimbabwe have been at the forefront of advocating for women’s rights, holding authorities accountable and providing essential services. The private sector plays a vital role in creating gender-inclusive workplaces fostering innovation and supporting women entrepreneurs. Young women themselves are key agents of change and their participation in civic engagement, entrepreneurship and leadership must be amplified. The Beijing +30 review encourages the creation of platforms where young women can voice their aspirations, influence policies, and lead community initiatives.
Zimbabwe’s journey toward Vision 2030 is not just about economic metrics; it is about building a society rooted in justice, equality and human dignity. The Beijing +30 review is a milestone – a moment to reflect on progress and identify areas for improvement. The future belongs to those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality. For Zimbabwe that future is bright when every woman and girl can participate fully in shaping the nation’s destiny.
When young women are empowered with education, health, leadership opportunities, and legal protections, they transform communities, inspire others and propel Zimbabwe toward a more inclusive and prosperous society. Their success is Zimbabwe’s success, Africa’s success and humanity’s success. When women rise, Zimbabwe rises. When girls are empowered the nation flourishes. Our collective action today will define the legacy we leave for future generations.
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