The Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZI) was honoured to join the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) in commemorating its 10th anniversary, a milestone moment in the country’s gender justice journey. The celebrations were held alongside the 2025 National Gender Forum under the theme: “ZGC@10 – Reflecting on the Achievements and the Future of Gender Equality in Zimbabwe.”

This convening brought together government representatives, development partners, civil society organisations, academia, and community voices to reflect on the progress made in advancing gender equality while shaping the agenda for the years ahead.

Women at the Centre of Development

Delivering the keynote address, Guest of Honour Minister Monica Mutsvangwa reminded participants of a truth that can no longer be overlooked: sustainable development is impossible without the full and equal participation of women, who constitute more than 52% of Zimbabwe’s population.

Her remarks echoed a growing recognition worldwide—that gender equality and women’s empowerment are not just moral imperatives but also catalysts for inclusive economic growth and social transformation. Zimbabwe’s ability to achieve its national development goals hinges on breaking structural barriers that hold women and girls back from realising their full potential.

FAWEZI’s Contribution to the Gender Agenda

As a recognised stakeholder in gender, education, and social justice, FAWEZI proudly exhibited at the Forum, creating space to share its programmes, approaches, and ongoing impact in advancing gender equality through education.

At the centre of FAWEZI’s exhibition was the FAWE/Mastercard Foundation Phase II Programme, which provides pathways to secondary, tertiary, and technical education for marginalised young women and men across Zimbabwe. By showcasing this programme, FAWEZI reaffirmed its commitment to empowering girls and young women through education—a powerful tool for challenging inequalities and building a more inclusive society.

The 10th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission was more than a commemoration; it was a call to action. It reminded all stakeholders—government, civil society, private sector, and communities—that the pursuit of gender equality requires renewed energy, stronger partnerships, and sustainable investment.

For FAWEZI, the Forum was an opportunity to strengthen alliances and amplify the message that education is central to advancing gender equality. When girls learn, societies grow. When women are empowered, economies thrive.

As Zimbabwe looks to the next decade of the Gender Commission’s work, FAWEZI remains committed to working alongside partners to ensure that gender equality is not only a policy goal but a lived reality for every girl and woman.