The Forum for African Women Educationalists in Zimbabwe (FAWEZI), with support from FAWE and the Mastercard Foundation, participated in the International Rural Women’s Day 2025 national commemorations held in Seke District, led by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, under the theme “Rural Women Rising – Shaping Resilient Futures with Beijing 30+.”

The national event provided a strategic platform to recognise and celebrate the critical role of rural women in driving inclusive development, resilience, and community transformation. Through active engagement with rural women and key stakeholders, FAWEZI leveraged the platform to popularise the FAWE/Mastercard Foundation Phase II Programme, reinforcing its focus on expanding education, skills development, and economic opportunities for marginalised populations.

As part of its outreach and sensitisation efforts, FAWEZI informed participants about the ongoing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) bursary call, targeting marginalised young women and men pursuing technical and vocational pathways. Visibility materials, including programme brochures and calls for applications, were distributed to ensure broad awareness of available opportunities and pathways to skills-based empowerment.

During the commemorations, FAWEZI had the honour of engaging with the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa, reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing resilient, inclusive, and empowered rural communities through education, skills development, and women’s leadership.

As Zimbabwe marks International Rural Women’s Day 2025, FAWEZI calls for sustained investment in rural education, digital inclusion, and economic empowerment for women and girls, recognising rural women as central actors in shaping resilient futures and driving sustainable national development.