#genderequality #SustainingTheGains #GBV Momentum continued to build today in Bindura, Mashonaland Central as the Ministry represented by the Permanent Secretary Dr. Mavis Sibanda joined the second and final day of the high-level Spotlight/Sustaining the Gains Mission, led by the European Union (EU), the United Nations (UN), and the Embassy of Switzerland. The mission brought together key stakeholders for an in-depth field assessment of the lasting impact, achievements, and sustainability of the EU-funded Zimbabwe Spotlight Initiative. The two-day field mission further provided an opportunity to highlight the transformative progress made in the fight against gender-based violence, as well as in the protection and empowerment of women and girls across Zimbabwe. The One Stop Centres (OSC) in Harare and Mashonaland Central have recorded a lot of successes through provision of timely services to GBV victims with the OSC at Bindura hospital having served over 3000 survivors since its inception in 2020. Across the two Provinces, One Stop Centres continue to bring multiple essential services together in one location, reducing the need for survivors to travel from office to office while seeking help. Challenges faced by OSCs: -Underreporting of GBV cases -shortage of OSCs -Resource constraints -lack of digital case management systems -unprecedented increase of GBV cases especially in Mash-Central Province.

#SustainingTheGains #genderequality #UN #womenempowerment The Ministry today joined a high-level Spotlight/Sustaining the Gains Mission, led by the European Union (EU), the United Nations (UN), and the Embassy of Switzerland, on a field tour to assess the impact and achievements of the EU-funded Zimbabwe Spotlight Initiative. The two-day mission seeks to evaluate the programme’s progress, highlight key successes, and strengthen ongoing efforts to sustain gains made in advancing the rights, protection, and empowerment of women and girls across Zimbabwe. The field visit kicked off with a tour of the #Zimbabwe Republic Police CID Forensics/DNA Lab, the Public Service Commission and the Epworth Safe Market, and Epworth Static #GBV One Stop Centre. On day two, the mission will extend its visit to Mashonaland Central and tour the #GBV Static One-Stop Centre and the Feminist Knowledge Hub at the Institute of Young Women in Development (IYWD) in Bindura. Objectives of the field mission include: • To provide an opportunity for the mission to learn of the Spotlight Initiative’s support and ongoing work under the successor programme, Sustaining the Gains, with stakeholders and partners in Government, and communities • To showcase the GBV-WEE nexus demonstrated through the Epworth Safe Market and One-Stop Centre model in Harare Province (Epworth) • To provide an opportunity for the mission to hold discussions with Implementing Partners on their work, changes that have occurred, and sustainability initiatives. UNFPA Zimbabwe EU Delegation to Zimbabwe Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting Services

As the curtain came down on the three-day National Disability Expo at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo Province today, we reflect on three inspiring days of innovation, inclusion, collaboration and empowerment. The Disability Expo 2026 was officially launched by the Hon. Vice President Dr. K. D. C. Mohadi this afternoon. It provided a valuable platform to showcase the talents, resilience and entrepreneurial potential of persons with disabilities, while strengthening partnerships that promote inclusive socio-economic development through #MSMEs, cooperatives, #genderequality and #CommunityEmpowerment. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all exhibitors, stakeholders, development partners and members of the public who visited our stand and contributed to the success of this important national event. Together, let us continue building an inclusive society where every person has the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive. Leaving no one and no place behind. #NationalDisabilityExpo2026 #Inclusion #Empowerment #Vision2030 #LeavingNoOneBehind

Access to accurate information, quality healthcare, and the freedom to make informed choices are essential to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). This webinar highlighted the importance of education, menstrual health, reproductive rights, consent, and access to contraception in empowering women, girls, and marginalised communities. Read more about how advocates and organisations are driving change across South Africa. ✊🏾💜 🔗 https://www.genderlinks.org.za/.../south-africa-advancing... #SRHR #VoiceAndChoice #GenderEquality #WomenRights #ReproductiveHealth #MenstrualHealth #BodilyAutonomy #GenderLinks #SouthAfrica

Discover how the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (WVL) South Africa Fund is advancing gender equality and strengthening women-led organisations across South Africa. Visit our website to learn more about the Fund, our partners, and the impact being made in communities nationwide. Link to website: https://www.genderlinks.org.za/wvlsa/ #WVLSouthAfrica #WomensRights #GenderEquality #FeministLeadership #WomenEmpowerment #SocialJustice #HumanRights #GenderJustice

A strong message of equality from Mauritius. Nine out of ten Mauritians believe that intersex people deserve equal rights, reflecting growing public support for inclusion, dignity, and human rights for all. Building societies that respect diversity starts with recognising that everyone deserves equal opportunities, protection, and respect, regardless of their sex characteristics. Read the full story here: https://www.genderlinks.org.za/.../mauritius-neuf... #GenderLinks #IntersexRights #EqualRights #HumanRights #Inclusion #GenderEquality #Mauritius

GENDER DIVISION URGES POLITICAL PARTIES TO ELIMINATE INTIMIDATION OF WOMEN IN POLITICS LUSAKA, 29th April, 2026 - The Gender Division under the Cabinet Office has noted with grave concern persistent reports of “Intimidation” of women aspiring for political positions across the country particularly from top party officials. Reports indicate that women are being requested to aspire for lower positions instead of what they want. Gender Division Permanent Secretary Mainga Kabika has urged political parties to put in place measures that will not disadvantage women in politics and create an environment where women can participate in the socio-economic and political life without fear of exploitation, harassment and abuse. "The act of party leaders intimidating women seeking elective office is not merely an internal party matter; it is a serious form of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and a predatory deterrent from gender equality in the country. This practice is a fundamental violation of human rights and a direct assault on our democratic values ", Said the Permanent Secretary. The Permanent Secretary has reiterated that political intimidate of female candidates serves as one of the most significant non-financial barriers to women’s political participation in Zambia. It silences capable voices, undermines meritocracy, and prevents the country from achieving gender parity in decision-making positions. The Permanent Secretary calls for all Political Parties to put in place the following interventions: 1. All political parties are urged to adopt and strictly enforce written codes of conduct that explicitly define and prohibit any form of intimidation or discouragement. 2. Internal Grievance Mechanisms for safe, anonymous, and independent reporting channels for women candidates who face any form of intimidation. 3. Any party official found to be intimidating female candidates in whatever form should be immediately relieved of their duties and handed over to law enforcement agencies for prosecution. Any woman facing any form of intimidation are encouraged to call the National Gender-Based Violence Call Centre—Toll-Free Helpline 944 to receive professional counselling, legal guidance, and support in a completely confidential environment. -ENDS #WomenInPolitics #GBV #genderequality