Gweru, 09 December, 2024 – In line with its mandate for gender parity in society, Midlands State University (MSU) Gender Institute hosted a one day workshop to commemorate the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence (GBV).
This year’s commemorations which were held under the banner, ‘’30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children,” drew participants from from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, Zimbabwe Republic Police Victim Friendly Unit, Mkoba Teachers College, Msasa Project, Gweru City Council, Women’s Action Group, Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe and SAYWHAT.
With one in every three women experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, GBV remains one of the prevelant human rights violations that requires a shared responsibility to combat.
In her welcome remarks, Executive Director- MSU Gender Institute, Professor E. Chauraya applauded participants for their solidarity in reaffirming the importance of standing up against GBV.
“I would like to thank you for coming together to raise and reaffirm your voices and commitment to end the scourge of gender-based violence which impacts millions globally,” expressed Professor Chauraya.
Speaking during the event, guest of honour, the Acting Provincial Development Officer- Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Mrs. C. Sithole observed that while the commemorations acknowledged the pervasive nature of GBV, it was pertinent that people recognise this scourge as a hindrance to the attainment of sustainable development goals.
Representatives from diverse organisations delivered solidarity messages emphasising the need for collective action to confront and address the realities of GBV.
The workshop featured an interactive session where participants shared strategies for combating gender-based violence, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing this critical social issue.
Giving her vote of thanks, MSU Gender Institute, Deputy Director, Dr. N. Matope thanked participants for taking the heed to end GBV.
The workshop reinforced MSU’s zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence while strengthening the efforts for continued combative yet collaborative efforts in addressing the scourge.