Zimbabwe Women's Group Launches Year-Long Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence
WDN-ZW's efforts have already sparked intergenerational dialogue, with youth and school children contributing articles on harmful gender norms.
HARARE, Zimbabwe— Women's Democracy Network Zimbabwe (WDN-ZW) has expanded its fight against gender-based violence (GBV) from a 10-day campaign to a year-long initiative, the organization announced Thursday, writes Winston Mwale.
The group's "365 Days of Action for Gender Equality" campaign aims to challenge harmful social norms and advocate for gender-responsive policymaking throughout Zimbabwe.
WDN-Zimbabwe Board Chair Sapi Bachi said, "We believe that gender-responsive policymaking is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable society."
The campaign follows a successful 10-day activism period in June, during which 33 newly trained gender champions engaged with local authorities and the public on issues ranging from GBV in public spaces to gender-sensitive budgeting.
Key focuses of the extended campaign include:
- Addressing GBV impunity
- Promoting women's economic empowerment
- Expanding women's autonomy and decision-making
- Combating harmful gender stereotypes
The initiative will feature daily social media posts, weekly themes, and monthly activities such as policy advocacy and storytelling.
WDN-ZW's efforts have already sparked intergenerational dialogue, with youth and school children contributing articles on harmful gender norms.
"We urge everyone to join us in this campaign to challenge harmful social norms and advocate for gender-responsive policy making," Bachi said.
The organization plans to engage with various stakeholders, including the Harare City Council, to push for gender-responsive policies and practices across public and private sectors.