11:15: Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, has arrived at Munyarari Primary School in Zimunya area, Mutare along with other esteemed delegates where hundreds of people are gathered to commemorate International Women’s Day 2025; a celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality.
The theme for the event is “For all women and girls, rights, equality and empowerment.”
Speaking ahead of the event, Minister Mutsvangwa emphasised the significance of this year’s celebrations, which are coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a pivotal platform established in 1995.
She said the commemorations provide an opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements.
“Zimbabwe has come up with the National Women in Leadership and Decision-Making Strategy (2023-2030) to increase women’s participation in decision-making positions in the public, political, and private sectors.”
11:32 Minister Mutsvangwa leads the delegation on touring the exhibition stands, showcasing various initiatives and projects that empower women and promote gender equality
11:45 Renowned gospel musician Dorcas Moyo has taken to the stage, mesmerising the crowd with her powerful vocals and uplifting melodies, adding a vibrant touch to the event
12:01 Director for Economic Affairs in the Office of the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution Mr Munyaradzi Rubaya who is representing the Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution Mr Abiott Maronge, introduces the esteemed delegation of Government Ministers and legislators gracing the commemorations
12:11 ZANU PF Manicaland provincial chairperson Cde Tawanda Mukodza introduces the ruling party officials attending the event
12:19 Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution Advocate Misheck Mugadza delivers the welcome remarks, officially kicking off the International Women’s Day 2025 celebrations in Manicaland
12:28 Advocate Mugadza expresses gratitude to the ministry for organising the event, highlighting its potential to inspire a new generation of innovative thinkers and doers.
“Notably, women make up a significant portion of Manicaland’s population; with approximately 1 035 000 women residing in the province. These women have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
He adds: Manicaland has a proud history of producing exceptional women leaders, including Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, the first female Defence Minister and Minister Mutsvangwa, among others.
The province is, indeed, a beacon of women’s empowerment, with girls’ schools serving as centers of excellence and achieving historic milestones.
“Several impactful projects have been initiated in the region, including the Dr. Emmerson Chikanga Mushroom Project in Mutare, Jopa Market in Chimanimani, and Cynara Dairy in Mutasa, all spearheaded by President Mnangagwa,” he says.
Women in Chipinge are making mutape macadamia oil and ndombi glycerine while Yeyo oil is being produced in Honde Valley, he adds. Tisuanhuacho wine is being produced in Nyanga.
12:37 Part of the colourful crowd, including Government officials, service chiefs, traditional leaders, ruling ZANU PF party supporters and associate groups, among others, attending the International Women’s Day 2025 commemorations at Munyarari Primary in Zimunya area, Mutare
12:40 Distinguished representatives from various partner organisations and ministries take turns to deliver their solidarity messages, reaffirming their commitment to partner Government in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality in various sectors
12:53 The atmosphere has been electrified by the soulful sounds of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Brass Band, as they entertain the crowd with their lively melodies and energetic performances
13:04 Minister Mutsvangwa and Advocate Mugadza join the ZCC Brass Band on the dancefloor as they break into song and dance
13:23 UN Resident Coordinator Mr Edward Kallon presents his solidarity message.
He says: “International Women’s Day challenges us to uphold values of women and girls the world over. UN Women’s latest report reported a regression in women’s rights in 2024. Everyone is thereby challenged to change this from this day going forwards.
“Together we must stand firm in making human rights a reality for all women and girls. The UN’s journey towards gender equality has collaborated with Government and partners in the country to achieve gender equality. Extensive collaboration efforts are needed.”
13:57 Minister Mutsvangwa takes to the podium to deliver the main speech
“International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls around the world. This year’s theme “All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of inclusive and collective action,” she says.
14:07 She says the nation recognises that women and girls continue to face significant barriers to achieving their full potential, adding that despite all this Government has made incredible progress towards achieving gender equality.
14:18 Says Minister Mutsvangwa: “From discriminatory laws and policies to societal norms and stereotypes, women and girls are often marginalised, excluded, and silenced. Our Constitution guarantees equal rights for women and men, and we have implemented various policies and programs aimed at promoting gender equality.”
She says her ministry is providing awareness and training to women on climate change mitigation and adaptation and this is key in building resilience to climate change. Minister Mutsvangwa adds that in order to improve women, access to sanitary wear her ministry together with developmental partners are training women in clubs and girls on menstrual health and hygiene and production of re-usable sanitary wear.
14:25 “My ministry, in collaboration with development partners and financial institutions, have established microfinance facilities aimed at providing affordable loans to women, enabling them to carry out income generating activities,” she says.
Minister Mutsvangwa says moving forward, it is essential that the rights, equality, and empowerment of all women and girls are prioritised at all times.
14:31 “We owe it to ourselves to create a future free from discrimination,” she says.
Minister Mutsvangwa concludes her address by officially declaring the International Women’s Day 2025 launched.
15:03 Chief Zimunya give the vote of thanks, acknowledging the esteemed guests, speakers, and organisers,.
He thanks them for their invaluable contributions
