Women empowerment, catalyst for development
BELOW is a speech by Per Lindgärde, the Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe as the country joins the world in commemorating International Women's day today. On the occasion of this International Women's Day today, aligned to the theme: “Invest in women, accelerate progress,” we acknowledge both the strides made in the fight for women's rights and the persistent challenges.
Gender equality is crucial for achieving a just and prosperous society and is something achievable if we all collaborate. Girls and women face massive limitations in resources, decision-making and mobility. They experience higher rates of violence and poverty. Investing in their economic empowerment, health and well-being is not just morally right, it is a strategic investment in Zimbabwe's future, and indeed, key to achieving National Development Strategy 1, accelerating progress towards a more equitable and prosperous society.
Economic empowerment, key to unlocking development potential
Whether it be supporting conditions for women to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations or to achieve financial autonomy within the household, investing in female economic empowerment means equipping women and girls with the knowledge and skills to pursue their aspirations as well as level the playing field to allow for equal opportunity to succeed and to contribute meaningfully to society.
Investing in women's health
The health of women and girls is a societal concern. Increased investment in healthcare services, including reproductive health and maternal care, is essential for the well-being of women, their families and society at large. The embassy of Sweden last week launched a collaboration with Population Services Zimbabwe, the Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development and the Health and Child Care ministries to ensure women have access to information to make informed choices regarding their bodies during all stages of womanhood, from menstruation to menopause. We applaud the ministries’ passion in this respect.
Combating violence, building support
Legal systems must be strengthened to protect victims of violence and swiftly prosecute perpetrators. Enhanced collaboration among stakeholders is crucial in providing survivors with the support they need. Sweden actively supports initiatives aimed at preventing gender-based violence. For instance, we support the project “Love shouldn’t hurt”.
A shared responsibility
We all have a role to play. Policymakers, civil society, businesses and individuals — men and women — boys and girls — must collaborate to combat discrimination, advocate for equal opportunities, and support initiatives that empower women. By investing in women, we invest in a brighter future for Zimbabwe. We applaud the strides that Zimbabwe has made towards gender equality and are committed to continuing the journey with key public and private stakeholders, organisations and partners.
Sweden remains a staunch advocate for gender equality which is clearly manifested by our 24 development co-operation projects in Zimbabwe which address these issues. Together, let us join hands and continue to build a society where women and girls can thrive and reach their full potential.