LOCAL Government minister Daniel Garwe says gender responsive practices have the potential to ameliorate service delivery and address gender equality within communities.
Garwe made these remarks at the ongoing Voice and Change Summit organised by Gender Links, a regional women's rights organisation.
The three-day event, which is running under the theme “Promoting Gender Responsive Governance and Economic Development”, seeks to bring together local authorities, government departments, civil society organisations as well as the media to share and highlight best practices in various categories.
“It is imperative that we highlight gender-responsive budgeting, a crucial mechanism for ensuring that resource allocation reflects the needs of both men and women, promoting inclusivity at every level,” Garwe said.
Garwe said recognising centres of excellence in gender mainstreaming were vital.
“These institutions showcase governance that prioritises gender equality and serve as models for others to emulate. Equally important is the role of local economic development in driving sustainable growth. We must ensure that the media, as a catalyst for change, engages in responsible reporting and representation of gender issues.”
The minister said it was critical to highlight that the “Call to Action – No Compromise to Service Delivery” blueprint called for the Central Government to come up with minimum service delivery standards.
He said the policy has been implemented in some local authorities where it has been successful.
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“It is, therefore, my hope that the projects to be exhibited at this summit will be reflective of milestones reached by our local authorities in the attainment of the minimum service delivery standards,” Garwe said.
Women Affairs ministry’s chief director Lilian Takaendesa said the summit's theme underscores the importance of integrating gender considerations into governance and economic strategies.
“Through bringing together diverse stakeholders, including media practitioners and fellows from the Women of the South Speak Out Fellowship, this summit aims to foster collaboration and collective action towards achieving gender-responsive governance,” she said.
“Ultimately, the outcomes of the summit are expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts to combat gender-based violence in Zimbabwe, aligning with the global campaign of the 16 Days of Activism and reinforcing the commitment to creating a safer and more equitable society for all.”
Gender Links Zimbabwe board chairperson Josephine Ncube the case studies presented at the summit would be instrumental in assessing governmental compliance with the gender-related provisions stipulated in the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development.
The ongoing summit is introducing 198 new best practices, reflecting an increasing dedication to addressing gender disparities and fostering inclusive development.
Participants have since yesterday been sharing best practices across various categories, including Drivers of Change, Entrepreneurship, Youth, Gender Responsive Budgeting, Institutional Centres of Excellence, Local Economic Development, Media and Projects (Climate Change, Gender-Based Violence, Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights).
