Press Release from Women’s Democracy Network Zimbabwe (WDN-ZW) on Zimbabwe’s Independence @45
As we commemorate Zimbabwe’s independence at 45, Women’s Democracy Network Zimbabwe (WDN-ZW) reflects on the significant strides made towards advancing women’s rights, empowerment, leadership, hard work and resilience in our evolving democracy and good governance of our country. We are grateful and honor the Women War Veterans whose leadership and participation in the war of liberation that delivered the independence we treasure today. We also acknowledge and appreciate everyone who since independence has contributed, invested and contributed to promoting women’s rights and participation in development processes. However, we also recognize the need for continued efforts to strengthen the gender implementing machinery which constitute of institutions with mandates to ensure laws and policies are enacted and implemented supported by a strong oversight and accountability mechanisms to foster an enabling environment for women’s equal representation, inclusion and participation in politics, leadership and decision-making in all development processes at community, national, regional and international level.
This year’s celebrations, running under the theme: “Zim@45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030,” is underscoring the Government of Zimbabwe’s commitment to inclusive national development and the decentralization of development processes to ensure marginalized communities are key to driving and sustaining national development agenda and processes. We call on the Government of Zimbabwe to strengthen oversight and accountability mechanisms to ensure obligations on women’s rights and gender equality under regional and international legal instruments that Zimbabwe is part to, the constitution provisions, laws, policies , structures are adequately resources, efficient and accountable to ensure women’s rights responsive devolution development plans and operations.
At WDN-ZW, we believe that women’s leadership and full participation in development processes free from all forms of discrimination, violence and exploitation is crucial for sustainable development and thriving democracy. We work tirelessly with women leaders in their diversity, stakeholders, gender champions to promote women’s participation in governance processes, equipping them with knowledge, skills and support for civic engagement and public participation.
Key Highlights of WDN-ZW’s Work
Promoting Women’s Leadership, We provide training and support to women leaders and aspiring leaders to enhance their participation in politics and governance processes.
Advocating for Gender-Responsive Policymaking through trainings and online engagement, We advocate for policies that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
Building a Movement of Women, We bring together women from diverse backgrounds to promote democracy, good governance and gender equality, fostering a culture of solidarity and collective action and also not living out men and the youth training them as gender champions.
As we celebrate our independence, we call upon the government and stakeholders to prioritize women’s leadership, participation, empowerment and support in all spheres of life. We call on Women of Zimbabwe to remain resolute and keep at it taking up leadership opportunities, showing up to claim, assert, enjoy, protect ,defend and promote their rights as well as taking responsibility to invest and sustain intergenerational alignment, unity and solidarity. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society where women and men have equal opportunities to thrive.
Let’s work together towards a brighter future for all Zimbabweans.
Contact Information
Email: wdn@gmail.com
Facebook : WDN-Zimbabwe
LinkedIn: Women’s Democracy Network Zimbabwe
X: @WdnZimbabwe