The streets of Harare were filled with energy and purpose as the citizens, government officials, diplomats, and civil society representatives participated in the HeForShe Solidarity March against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The event, co-hosted by the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Zimbabwe, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Small and Medium Enterprise Development, aimed to highlight the urgent need to end GBV in Zimbabwe.
Starting at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) and concluding at Town House, the seat of the Mayor of Harare, the march emphasized the shared responsibility of individuals, communities, and governments in tackling GBV. The symbolic route passed through key areas, reinforcing the message that violence against women and girls must be eradicated from private and public spaces.
The event was graced by the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Honourable Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, who served as the Guest of Honour. She reaffirmed the Government of Zimbabwe’s commitment to gender equality, citing significant steps taken since 2021.
“In 2021, the Government of Zimbabwe committed itself to ending GBV by launching the first-ever High-Level Political Compact (HLPC) on Ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices (2021-2030), signed by His Excellency President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and our development partners,” Minister Mutsvangwa stated.
She further highlighted initiatives such as the establishment of community-based shelters and one-stop centers in remote areas, aimed at providing critical support to survivors of violence.
A major highlight of the event was the transition of leadership within the HeForShe initiative, a global solidarity movement led by UN Women. EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Jobst von Kirchmann, officially handed over the co-chairmanship to Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Adler Aristilde.
Ambassador von Kirchmann expressed his gratitude to stakeholders and emphasized the EU’s continued support for gender equality initiatives.
“Ending gender-based violence is a collective responsibility that calls on all of us, women and men, young and old, to stand together in solidarity. Team Europe is proud to collaborate with the Government of Zimbabwe, UN Women, and partners from all sectors to strengthen these efforts and create a society where women and girls can live free from fear, violence, and discrimination,” he said.
Speaking on his new role, Ambassador Aristilde expressed Canada’s commitment to advancing gender equality in Zimbabwe. “We are ready to continue building on the progress made and ensuring that the HeForShe movement remains a strong force for change,” he said.
The march received strong support from Team Europe, which included representatives from the embassies of Spain, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Germany, and Greece. Gender equality remains a shared priority for Team Europe and Zimbabwe, with over USD 300 million allocated towards gender empowerment programs from 2021 to 2027.
Speaking at the event, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, His Excellency Edward Kallon, commended the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
“Today, we gather with a shared purpose and a united voice to stand against gender-based violence. This march is a powerful statement of our commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in Zimbabwe,” said Kallon.
Harare Mayor, His Worship Councillor Jacob Mafume, whose message was delivered by his deputy emphasized the role of local authorities in ensuring safer public spaces. “As a city, we commit to making our streets, homes, and workplaces free from violence. The safety of women and girls is non-negotiable,” he said.
Also in attendance was Ms. Fatou Lo, the UN Women Country Representative and co-chair of the HeForShe movement, alongside members of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, civil society organizations, business leaders, and youth representatives.
GBV affects everyone: Studies show that 42.5% of Zimbabwean women experience gender-based violence, often at the hands of intimate partners, the reason why men must be involved in solutions: The HeForShe movement encourages male engagement in the fight for gender equality.
Continuous effort is required: The march is part of broader efforts, including policy advocacy, legal reforms, and grassroots programs to combat GBV.
Ambassador von Kirchmann, in his parting speech as HeForShe co-chair, emphasized the importance of sustained action. “This is not just a one-day march. We must talk about gender-based violence every day. We must challenge harmful norms, listen to survivors, and take action to create a safer society for all,” he said.
The HeForShe movement, initiated by UN Women in 2014, has continued to expand in Zimbabwe, incorporating parliaments, businesses, youth advocates, and artists in efforts to promote gender equality. During its chairmanship, the EU strengthened engagement with different stakeholders, paving the way for new initiatives such as the HeForShe Group of Artists.
The solidarity march also marked the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework for gender equality adopted in 1995. The Government of Zimbabwe has undertaken a review of its progress in implementing the declaration, with findings set to be presented at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women later this year.
Additionally, Team Europe and the Government of Zimbabwe continue to collaborate on policies that promote gender equity. The EU recently committed €7 million towards gender-based violence programs, adding to its broader funding of over €300 million (2021-2027).
The HeForShe Solidarity March was a clear demonstration of Zimbabwe’s commitment to gender equality and the fight against GBV. With strong partnerships between government, international organizations, and civil society, the country is making significant strides towards a future where women and girls can live free from violence.
As Ambassador Aristilde takes on the new leadership role, the HeForShe movement in Zimbabwe enters a new phase that calls for greater action, stronger advocacy, and deeper engagement at all levels of society.
The message from Harare was clear: Gender-based violence has no place in Zimbabwe, and the fight to end it must continue beyond the march.