The Sunday Mail
THIS Wednesday, March 8, Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world in marking International Women’s Day (IWD).
The globally recognised event celebrates the achievements of women across various sectors.
The commemorations draw the public’s attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights and violence against women.
Last week, our reporter KIMBERLY MHEMBERE interviewed women from different walks of life on the importance of this year’s event, which is running under the theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.
IWD 2023 is expected to see an exploration of the impact of the digital gender gap on widening economic and social inequalities.
***
Abigail Chiviya (Entrepreneur)
Women’s Day and Women’s Month celebrations are important as they encourage us to aspire for more. It (IWD) is a celebration of the roles we play in making our country and the world a better place through our great tenderness and love. We expect everyone, men included, to raise awareness on women’s ability to excel. It is a time when we will also be celebrating our achievements. We may know great women; let us encourage and help them rise.
***
Nomsa Nkala (Zimpapers
Television Network [ZTN] head)
The event should be celebrated as it is a time for women to stand up for themselves. This is the time to be brave enough to push the boundaries, as this is beginning to happen in the media and everywhere. It is an exciting time for women. Let us take the main seat at the table.
***
Tatenda Mavetera (Member
of Parliament)
We are celebrating the efforts and contribution of women, and reflecting on gaps in terms of women’s emancipation, empowerment and inclusion. This is a unique month in which we become one voice and come up with resolutions in terms of women emancipation. At such a time, we are honouring what has been done by Government in making sure that there is enough representation of women in the economy. I expect women in key decision-making positions to inspire through testimonials those who shun political positions. We rise by building others. Let us strengthen, capacitate, compliment and celebrate every woman who has done well.
***
Olga Nhari (Women farmers’
representative)
This is a time to celebrate women’s beauty and hard work. We look at mothers, sisters, aunts and nieces as more than just women but important players in the economic transformation of a nation. Such celebrations should highlight the importance of women in the economy.
This year, we are focusing on innovation in agriculture for a sustainable tomorrow. I encourage women to unite and fight our common enemy – poverty. Together, we can champion food and nutrition security, and achieve food self-sufficiency.
***
Linda Masarira (Politician)
It is a time for a toast to women, their resilience and tenacity. At a personal level, I reflect on women’s struggles, as well as gains, and interrogate accomplishments in achieving total equality and emancipating women from tribal, religious, social and political stereotypes. Sadly, most women do not appreciate this day as they fail to comprehend what it entails. Most women have existed as patriarchal gatekeepers and misinterpret the event. For what we are worth, we need to start being appreciated beyond mothering children and being wives.
***
Feli Nandi (Artiste)
This is a celebration we are happy to be part of and I cannot wait to perform on such a glorious day. Women’s Day empowers women . . . I would like all women to know that they are special.
***
Linda Modise (Disability
lifestyle influencer and activist)
It is a reminder that we are unique, gifted and that being a woman is empowering. Women’s Day acknowledges women coming together, appreciating feminine superpower and beauty of our blackness, confidence, authenticity, freedom of self-expression and our nurturing spirit. We expect to raise awareness on women’s rights to equity, education and empowerment, as well as spread positivity and support other women.
***
Tyra “Madam Boss” Chikocho (Socialite/Comedienne)
I consider this a special month as women are celebrated for their different roles. I expect us to see this as an opportunity to connect and network with committed women fighting for gender equality, empowerment and coming together as one in taking front-row positions in running the world.
***
Ruth Butaumocho (The Herald Managing Editor)
We must be celebrated as we now occupy spaces that used to be predominantly occupied by men – in tourism, media, mining and construction. Previously, women were viewed as lesser beings in the economic and political space.
With the new political dispensation, we have achieved a huge numerical significance of women in key decision-making positions. A balance on equilibrium has been achieved, including in the National Assembly.
***
Ethel Mupambwa (Banker)
At least 70 percent of our clients are women in business. We acknowledge and honour the women we collaborate with for the key contributions they make to society. Likewise, we celebrate our success in promoting financial inclusion for low-income women.
These are the people who help develop economies. With the world evolving, let us empower women with technology for greater results.
***
Loveness Mainato (Founder of Albino Charity Organisation of Zimbabwe)
As a female activist and role model, I am happily celebrating motherhood and developmental roles that I have assumed in tackling all forms of abuse. When commemorating Women’s Month, I expect role models to receive recognition in different media spaces. To young girls, say no to drug and substance abuse. Protect women all the time.
***
Dr Sharon Kadenge
(Anaesthesiologist)
Women from various fields should get recognition for their impactful contributions to society. We have leaders, innovators and game changers among us. As we celebrate this day, let us remember that the ultimate goal is to uphold women’s rights and advocate their inclusion. To my fellow females, pursue your dreams. You have the potential to achieve great things and make a positive impact in the world.
