Zimbabwe Gender Commission champions equality at Mata North forum

Dumisile Tshuma

LUPANE – The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) Tuesday convened the Matabeleland North Provincial Gender Forum at Lupane State University, marking a significant step in its ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and justice across the nation.

The forum brought together stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting men and women in the province, aligning with the ZGC’s “Leave No One Behind” initiative. The event featured presentations from prominent figures, each shedding light on different facets of gender equality and the commission’s work.

As the ZGC celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, Vice Chairperson Obert Matshalaga emphasized the commission’s commitment to equitable justice for all. “We are celebrating a decade of collective action, resilience in the face of challenges, and progress in advancing gender equality, justice, and inclusivity across Zimbabwe,” he said. He reiterated the commission’s focus on eliminating harmful practices, particularly the marrying out of young girls.

Sikhethabahle Moyo, Development Officer for the Ministry of Women Affairs in Matabeleland North, discussed the newly amended gender policy, which aims to align with modern concepts and address current challenges. The National Gender Policy (2025) promotes gender equality and empowerment while recognizing the diversity of gender experiences and roles. President Emmerson Mnangagwa emphasized that sustainable national progress hinges on full gender inclusion.

Thando Gwinji of the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCOZ) spoke about Zimbabwe’s commitment to global standards on gender through various international instruments. These include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the African Women’s Protocol, the SADC Gender Protocol, and others—positioning Zimbabwe among the nations working to uphold gender equity.

Since its inception in 2015, ZGC has handled over 4,000 gender-related complaints—ranging from sexual harassment and gender-based violence to child marriage and property disputes—highlighting growing public trust in the institution.

The Matabeleland North Gender Forum served as a platform for dialogue and accountability, reinforcing ZGC’s mission to build a society where all citizens—regardless of gender—can live with dignity and equal opportunity.