The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s fight against gender-based violence (GBV), pledging over US$300 million toward gender equality initiatives.
Speaking after the HeForShe march against GBV in Harare on Wednesday, EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst von Kirchmann assured continued backing for the government’s efforts in combating GBV.
“We are with you, yes we are with you, and we support the efforts the government is doing to fight against GBV,” Kirchmann said.
Concerns Over U.S. Foreign Aid Cuts
The pledge comes amid growing uncertainty following newly-elected U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive orders to reevaluate and realign his country’s foreign aid. The U.S., through USAID, has been a major funder of GBV programs in Zimbabwe, and potential funding cuts could disrupt vital interventions.
Asked about the possible impact of the U.S.’s decision, Women Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa directed the question to Kirchmann, who reiterated the EU’s long-term commitment.
“The European Union team has mobilised over US$300 million for gender equality and the fight against GBV in Zimbabwe alone, and I think you will see in the coming years lots of activities in that sense,” Kirchmann added.
Canada Also Commits to GBV Fight
Joining the conversation, Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Adler Aristide also reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe in tackling GBV.
“We are not going to question the U.S. in their decisions, we will have to see what they decide to do in three months, but Canada will be here to continue their support and commitment to this cause,” Aristide said.
The U.S. remains a key player in Zimbabwe’s social development programs, and any withdrawal of funds could have a significant impact on local GBV prevention efforts.
However, with the EU and Canada reaffirming their commitment, Zimbabwe’s fight against GBV continues to gain crucial international support.
