A United Nations Working Group on discrimination against women and girls has praised Zimbabwe for its constitutional and legislative strides toward gender equality, while urging more robust efforts to dismantle entrenched barriers that continue to limit the rights and opportunities of women and girls. During an official visit to the country, the UN experts assessed both progress and persistent challenges, acknowledging Zimbabwe’s commitment to reform while emphasizing the need for deeper societal transformation. In their statement, the Working Group called for the active eradication of patriarchal attitudes that undervalue girls, advocating for a society that nurtures their potential as future leaders, innovators, and agents of change.
UNICEF echoed this sentiment, underscoring the strategic importance of empowering women, who comprise 52 percent of Zimbabwe’s population. Despite this demographic strength, many women and girls remain marginalized due to systemic issues such as early marriage, adolescent pregnancy, high maternal mortality rates, limited access to education, and widespread gender-based violence. UNICEF’s research reveals that one in four girls aged 15 to 19 is married, and many struggle to transition to secondary education. Girls also face heightened risks of sexual violence, both in domestic settings and within schools, further compounding their vulnerability.
To address these challenges, UNICEF and the UN Working Group emphasized the need for systemic change in both institutional practices and societal norms that perpetuate inequality. The experts stressed that gender equality is not a zero-sum goal, noting that men and boys also benefit from a more just and inclusive society. They urged the Zimbabwean government to implement comprehensive public awareness campaigns and prioritize human rights education for all children, rooted in the principles of equality, dignity, and autonomy. The call to action reflects a shared vision for a future where every girl can thrive, free from discrimination and empowered to shape her destiny.