WOMEN in Zimbabwe have been urged to adopt new strategies to improve their chances of securing leadership positions.
The urgent appeal was made during a Transformative Feminist Leadership training workshop held in Mutare yesterday.
The workshop, organised by the Women Academy for Leadership and Political Excellency (Walpe) and supported by United Nations Women, aimed to strengthen the leadership skills of proportional representation (PR) appointed Members of Parliament and councillors.
It will be implemented across all provinces of the country.
Walpe project officer Charity Manjova emphasised the importance of the training, which empowers women leaders to run for constituency and ward seats in upcoming elections.
The session in Mutare attracted PR MPs and councillors from all eight districts of Manicaland province, culminating in the certification of 41 participants.
Manjova highlighted the constitutional provisions for gender equality through PR quotas, yet noted the persistent underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles.
“Despite these provisions, women face significant challenges in attaining leadership positions,” she said.
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Recent statistics reveal that as of the August 2023 elections, women held only 11% of parliamentary seats, with a mere 2% occupied by young women.
In local councils, women constitute 42% of council seats, but only 12% of these were directly elected.
Manjova attributed this disparity to patriarchal norms and a lack of resources for effective campaigning.
“Our goal is to enhance women’s engagement in policy-making and advocacy for gendered decision-making,” she said. Faith Kagwida, investigations officer at the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC), said there is need for women to navigate complex political systems.
“These systems were not originally designed with women in mind,” she said.
“However, there are strategies that can improve women’s chances in leadership roles.”
Kagwida urged women to build strong networks and mentorship programmes, engage in civic education, and seek out supportive organisations.
“Women must not hesitate to leave toxic environments. Sometimes moving on is the most strategic choice for growth,” she advised.
Additionally, she called for advocacy for policies promoting gender equality and active participation in political parties.
“Empowering women and challenging stereotypes are essential for increasing gender representation in leadership roles,” Kagwida affirmed.
Participants expressed their newfound confidence and determination.
Tsitsi Munyebvu, chairperson of People with Disabilities in Mutasa district, shared her transformative experience.
“This training has been life-changing. I now feel empowered to run for a ward seat and represent people with disabilities,” Munyebvu said.
Lillian Chipiro, a proportional representative councillor in Mutare, echoed similar sentiments.
“This programme has shown me that I have the potential to make a difference in my community," she said.
Christine Dzingai from ward 13 in Chikanga expressed her gratitude for the initiative.
