Women key to peace, security: Govt

WOMEN’S participation in decisionmaking processes is essential for Zimbabwe to achieve sustainable peace and security, a senior government official has said.

Speaking during the launch of the Zimbabwe National Action Plan on Resolution 1325 in Harare last week, Women’s Affairs minister Monica Mutsvangwa said: “We recognise that our nation’s sustained peace and security can only be achieved when women’s perspectives are fully integrated into the policy and decision-making arenas.

“This plan reflects our unwavering belief in the power of women to contribute to the advancement of peace and security. It acknowledges their immense potential as agents of change, peace builders and leaders. By implementing this plan, we commit to amplifying women voices, protecting their rights and harnessing their invaluable contributions to building a peaceful nation.”

Resolution 1325, adopted by the United Nations Security Council in 2000, recognises the unique challenges faced by women and girls in armed conflict and calls for their meaningful participation in all aspects of peace and security.

It also affirms the crucial role women play in conflict resolution, peace building and post-conflict reconstruction.

Mutsvangwa expressed government’s dedication to ensuring equal access to economic resources and opportunities for women.

“By promoting women’s economic empowerment, we unlock their potential to contribute to the nation’s development and prosperity.

“We recognise the transformative power of education in promoting gender equality and peace. We are committed to eliminating gender disparities in education, ensuring equal access for girls and mainstreaming peace and gender-sensitive curricula. Education is the foundation upon which we will build a future of peace and prosperity for all,” Mutsvangwa said.

She expressed confidence that the Zimbabwe national action plan will contribute to solving the problems that women and girls face.

“Let us seize this opportunity to transform our aspirations into actions, to create a future whereby peace, justice and equality prevail.

“Together, we can build a Zimbabwe where every woman and girl can thrive and contribute to the betterment of our nation,” she said.