By Staff Reporter
The Institute of Young Women Development (IYWD) is urging women to boldly voice their concerns about issues that violate their rights and to actively seek leadership positions within their communities. This will ensure fair representation in decision-making processes that directly impact their lives.
Onai Nyahunzvi, a volunteer with the women’s rights organization, emphasized this point during the IYWD’s Local Government Learning and Exchanging Lab in Harare. She noted that women, particularly in rural areas, often face challenges in traditional settings where they are relegated to the sidelines, even on matters that significantly affect them.
“Women should learn to speak up and demand to be heard,” Nyahunzvi stated.
“IYWD is working to mobilize and educate women in communities to actively participate in decision-making platforms, including budget consultations and development initiatives, by working collaboratively with local governments. We encourage them to pursue leadership positions so that women’s issues are fully represented, as women disproportionately bear the brunt of socio-economic challenges.”
Nyahunzvi highlighted that in many rural areas, women are still considered inferior, making it difficult for them to assert themselves. When they do express their concerns, they often face derogatory labels that silence them.
“Our message is that they should not be discouraged,” she emphasized. “They should defend their rights, regardless of the challenges they may face.” Nyahunzvi acknowledged the positive progress of women assuming leadership roles traditionally held by men.
Experts concur that women remain underrepresented in nearly all sectors of the Zimbabwean economy.
