IN FOCUS: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY (IWD) CELEBRATIONS
IN FOCUS: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY (IWD) CELEBRATIONS
In Shurugwi, the Country Director of ActionAid Zimbabwe, Mr Joy Mabenge, along with women’s groups and AAZ staff, took part in a national event commemorating International Women’s Day. Rural Women’s Assemblies (RWA’s) from Chendambuya, Hwedza, and Nyazura showcased their products. The Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Scale Development graced the occasion as the guest of honor. Additionally, numerous other NGOs, government departments, agencies, and private sector companies participated, presenting a range of supportive services for women.
As part of the International Women’s Day celebrations on March 8th, 2024, the TORCHES project convened a meeting with key stakeholders in Nyanga. The event aimed to raise awareness about the protocol for the multi-sectoral management of SAGBV, emphasizing the importance of collective action and a unified approach to the referral system among all service providers.
In Hwedza, Chigondo Ward 9 community, women actively participated in commemorating International Women’s Day (IWD), joining millions around the globe in celebrating the achievements and contributions of women. The event saw the collaboration of various stakeholders, including government line ministries such as the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the Ministry of Local Government, as well as departments and agencies like the National AIDS Council (NAC), Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Standard Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ), and the Family Planning Council.
Private voluntary organizations including S.O.S. Children’s Village, ActionAid Zimbabwe, World Vision, and the Institute for Young Women’s Development (IYWD) also played a pivotal role in the event. Together, these entities offered a range of free services aimed at benefiting women, including voter registration, free cervical cancer screening, distribution of free HIV self-test kits, and free contraception distribution.
Moreover, the event provided a platform for women to showcase their talents and entrepreneurial ventures. Women exhibited a diverse array of crafts and products, ranging from dried vegetables and handmade key holders to horticultural produce and textile products.
In Makoni, ActionAid Zimbabwe (AAZ) celebrated the occasion with a unique approach, taking to the airwaves of Diamond FM in Mutare. Using radio as an advocacy, women were given a platform to voice the barriers and challenges they face in their daily lives, emphasizing the need for government action to improve their circumstances. Gender champions, including Emma Mutambiranwa from Nyazura LRP and Zvikomborero Chifambe from Chiendambuya LRP, shared insights on women’s empowerment efforts, focusing on areas such as agroecology and meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Delight Moyo, AAZ’s Partnership for Social Accountability Project Manager, highlighted the organization’s extensive work nationwide, particularly advocating for gender-responsive financing. This approach aims to counteract austerity measures that disproportionately impact women and divert resources away from essential public services and social protection. Additionally, Mr. Gabriel Jaji, the Provincial Development Officer for Manicaland Province, emphasized the importance of prioritizing women’s rights and gender equality at the district and provincial levels. He discussed collaborative efforts between the Ministry and ActionAid to address gender-based challenges and outlined existing policies and initiatives supporting women’s empowerment, as well as strategies for improving financing for gender[1]responsive public services.
DURING WOMEN’S MONTH, WE ALSO MET WOMEN FROM VARIOUS BACKGROUNDS WHO ARE CONTRIBUTING TO THE WOMEN’S MOVEMENT IN NUMEROUS IMPACTFUL WAYS. EACH OF THESE WOMEN BRINGS UNIQUE STRENGTHS AND PERSPECTIVES, ENRICHING THE MOVEMENT WITH THEIR DEDICATION AND DIVERSE CONTRIBUTIONS.
Meet Mrs Jambaya
Mrs. Jambaya’s journey is a testament to the birth of Zimbabwe’s women’s movement. As the co-founder of Jekesa Pfungwa Vulinqondo, one of the nation’s earliest women’s movements, she dedicated herself to uplifting underprivileged women. Drawing inspiration from her mother’s Women meetup clubs (Ruwadzano), she honed her passion for female empowerment through dialogue and community engagement. Her involvement with the Young Women Christian Association in Mufakose marked the beginning of her extensive work with various organizations, laying the groundwork for her pivotal role in women’s advocacy.
Assuming leadership of the Women Institute until Zimbabwe’s independence, Mrs. Jambaya spearheaded its transition into Jekesa Pfungwa Vulinqondo, securing its continued impact. Today, the organization stands as a beacon of women-led initiatives, empowering women and children through education and community development across all provinces. Her resignation as a founding member in 2022 signifies a lifelong commitment to demonstrating that women are catalysts for change, inspiring generations of women to embrace their potential in Zimbabwe’s ongoing journey of progress.
Edinah Masiyiwa
Edinah Masiyiwa embarked on her journey in the women’s movement back in 1992, drawn from a background in healthcare as a nurse and midwife. Witnessing the arrival of each new life filled her with pride, yet concurrently, she couldn’t ignore the injustices experienced by women in healthcare settings. Instances such as women sleeping on floor beds after delivery struck her as glaring violations of their rights. This awareness intensified upon her qualification as a Health and Education Officer in the same year, opening her eyes to the urgent need for improved access to quality healthcare for women. When the opportunity arose to join Women’s Action Group as an Assistant Health Coordinator, she seized it eagerly. Little did she know then that it would mark the beginning of a journey spanning more than three decades, leading this esteemed organization. Over the years, significant milestones were achieved in the women’s movement under her leadership. Notably, their representation at the Beijing Conference on Women in 1995 was a pivotal moment. It was there that frameworks for women’s empowerment and gender equality, articulated through the 12 critical areas of concern, were established. These frameworks continue to inform their interventions aimed at promoting women’s empowerment. Additionally, their efforts have brought the issue of Domestic Violence into the public sphere, resulting in the enactment of the Domestic Violence Act in 2007. This legislation provides guidance on accessing justice and psychosocial support for survivors of domestic violence.
Currently, Edinah Masiyiwa is actively engaged in the campaign for access to safe abortion. She firmly believes that ensuring access to safe abortion services will play a crucial role in reducing maternal deaths. Their ongoing campaign aims to raise awareness about the Termination of Pregnancy Act (1977) and advocate for women’s reproductive rights. Looking back, she is grateful for her journey within the women’s movement, both in Zimbabwe and globally. It has been a journey of personal growth and enlightenment, crystallizing her understanding of women’s issues and their shared vision: to realize a Zimbabwe where empowered women and girls assert and enjoy their rights within a framework of transformed power relations between women and men. She is privileged to be part of various networks championing the women’s agenda, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, where she served as a sexual and reproductive health champion, and the Women Leaders of the World, where she is a fellow. Additionally, her involvement in the Country Coordinating Mechanism of the Global Fund has enabled her to advocate for the integration of women and HIV issues into Zimbabwe’s response plan for HIV and AIDS. Beyond professional spheres, Edinah Masiyiwa has also contributed grounded leadership within her family and broader community, nurturing future generations to embrace the principles of gender equality and social justice
Nyaradzai Gumbonzvanda
Nyaradzai Gumbonzvanda’s remarkable journey from Murehwa to Geneva is a testament to her unwavering commitment to gender equality and human rights. With her recent appointment as Deputy Executive Director for Normative Support at UN Women, she adds yet another milestone to her illustrious career. Fondly referred to as mother, activist, advisor, and mentor by those who have encountered her, Nyaradzai’s leadership transcends boundaries and resonates globally.
Ms. Gumbonzvanda’s academic achievements reflect her dedication to her cause, holding degrees from prestigious institutions such as the University of Massachusetts, University of South Africa, and Uppsala University. Her career trajectory is marked by her tenure as the General Secretary of the World YWCA, where she spearheaded initiatives to empower women and girls worldwide. Currently serving as the board chairperson of ActionAid International, Nyaradzai provides strategic guidance to the organization’s efforts in promoting human rights and social justice on a global scale.
Nyaradzai’s tireless advocacy has garnered international recognition, including awards such as the Human Rights Defender Award from Human Rights Watch and the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur from the French Republic. Her steadfast commitment to gender equality and social justice continues to inspire individuals and organizations worldwide, driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive society for all.
Justina Chibukwa
Justina Chibukwa, aged 51, serves as the Chairperson of the Social Accountability and Monitoring Committee (SAMCO) in Mutoko’s Ward 4 under Chief Mutoko. Through her role in the Partnership for Social Accountability project, Justina actively contributes to influencing public financing in health and agriculture sectors in Mutoko. Her participation in strategic planning processes and budgeting at both national and district levels has led to significant achievements for her community since joining SAMCO in 2021.
Since she became a SAMCO chair in her ward, Justina is happy there have been improvements in service delivery on health and agriculture in her community, something which she takes pride in. Proudly advocating for her community, Justina actively engages with traditional and community leaders to address health and agriculture[1]related challenges. Her upcoming focus involves tackling the issue of child marriages and early sexual debut, recognizing the detrimental impact on children’s well-being. Through school outreach programs and meetings with parents, she aims to raise awareness and combat this pervasive issue, driven by her unwavering commitment to the welfare of her community.
Gladys Chihozhwa
Gladys Chihozhwa’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. As we sat on the very sofas purchased from the proceeds of her income-generating projects under the Dignified Lives and Decent Livelihoods for Young People initiative, Gladys opened up about her transformational journey. From her early days as a commercial sex worker to her current role as a young influencer, Gladys spared no detail in recounting her life’s journey, from teenage motherhood to the present day.
Her journey of transformation is a testament to the impact of the program, which introduced her to the detergent-making process. Armed with this newfound knowledge, Gladys has not only been able to provide for her family’s needs but has also extended a helping hand to other vulnerable girls, guiding them away from the dangers of sex work and towards sustainable livelihoods. Today, she wears many hats - a mother, a champion for sexual and reproductive health, an advocate against gender-based violence, an entrepreneur, and a staunch opponent of drug and substance abuse. Thanks to the Dignified Lives and Decent Livelihoods for Young People project launched by Action Aid Zimbabwe in May 2021, in partnership with Katswe Sisterhood and Action Aid Denmark, Gladys has embraced her role as a proud and active member of her community, Glady’s is now able to spend more time with her children and help them with their schoolwork. The DTV project aims to impact the lives of over 3,000 young individuals in Harare South by April 2026, empowering them to break free from cycles of poverty and exploitation and to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Exodus Munkuli
Exodus Munkuli hails from Binga and is a driven young woman making a difference in her community. Despite facing financial challenges that prevented her from pursuing university education after passing her advanced levels, Exodus refuses to be a bystander. Instead, she has become actively involved as an SRHR mentee under the Partnerships for Social Accountability project, operating in Mutoko and Binga.
In her role as an SRHR mentee, Exodus conducts awareness-raising sessions on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and advocates for the provision of youth-friendly services at health centers in Binga. Her efforts, alongside her colleagues, led to the successful establishment of a youth-friendly corner at Siyanzundu clinic, now operational. Together, they aim to combat child marriages and teen pregnancies, ensuring that young girls like Exodus are not forced into early marriages or have their futures compromised by early pregnancies.
Exodus’ leadership skills have not gone unnoticed, as she was elected as a member of the Siyanzundu Health Center Committee. In this role, she is determined to ensure that public finances are utilized for the betterment of her community.
In addition to her advocacy work, Exodus has embarked on farming ventures to raise income for her education and support her family. Inspired by her peers in Mutoko during a learning visit under the PSA project, Exodus is determined to create positive change in her community and beyond.
Fungai Saunyama
Fungai Saunyama, a Ward 16 Development Coordinator under the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Scale Development, demonstrated exceptional compassion and dedication in aiding a survivor of rape. The survivor, who faced the additional challenge of being mentally challenged and having difficulty in speech, found invaluable support in Fungai’s assistance. Drawing upon her knowledge of available resources, Fungai helped the survivor report the incident to both the police and the village head. Utilizing her understanding of the TORCHES project’s Justice Fund, Fungai ensured that the survivor had access to the necessary support to attend court proceedings. Beyond logistical assistance, Fungai provided crucial emotional support and counseling services for both the survivor and her family. Despite the perpetrator’s connections to the police and his previous unpunished offenses, Fungai remained steadfast until justice was saved. In honoring Fungai during this Women’s Month, we recognize her as a true heroine dedicated to creating safer and more supportive communities for all.
Rumbidzayi Makoni
Rumbidzayi has been radical for as long as she can recall. Growing up, she held steadfast convictions regarding women’s empowerment and the need for female voices to be amplified. She attributes much of this mindset to her upbringing in a feminist environment, where her mother and other influential figures championed equal opportunities for her and her brothers. At every turn, she vocally opposed the injustices she encountered, believing that silence would only perpetuate systemic inequalities. Rumbidzayi firmly advocates for creating inclusive and enabling systems, advocating against oppressive structures such as neoliberalism, patriarchy, and racism—a stance she has upheld over the years. Her career path was shaped early on during her tenure at Musasa (formerly Musasa Project), where she experienced the realities of patriarchy as she engaged with women trapped in abusive relationships across all strata of society. Subsequently, she worked with diverse organizations, spanning from sexual and reproductive health rights, behavior change, economic empowerment, and climate justice. These experiences equipped her with invaluable transferable skills that solidified her identity as a feminist.
From her pioneering participation in the Special Youth Fellowship with UNAIDS in 2009, where she gained hands-on experience in coordinating youth organizations and coalitions at both global and national levels, to her role as Gender Program Advisor with the Flemish Association for Development Cooperation and Technical Assistance – VVOB, where she spearheaded the development of feminist toolkits and facilitated professional capacity development in gender-responsive pedagogy for early childhood development learners, Rumbidzayi continually broadened her horizons. Her tenure with the Culture Fund Trust of Zimbabwe further deepened her understanding of the intersection of arts, culture, and behavioral change within inclusive societies and economies.
Joining ActionAid Zimbabwe marked another significant chapter in Rumbidzayi’s journey, where she unapologetically advocated against socio-economic injustices and pushed for more inclusive economies benefitting marginalized communities, particularly women and youth. Her relentless pursuit of justice and equality landed her to a new global role as the Feminist Alternatives to Neoliberalism Policy Adviser with ActionAid International. While Rumbidzayi’s departure signifies a loss for ActionAid Zimbabwe, it undeniably signifies a substantial gain for ActionAid International. Her expertise and experience promise to enrich the global movement for social justice and gender equality.