WE often raise our voices in the call for gender equality, highlighting the persistent barriers that continue to limit women's full participation in the economy. This week, however, I choose to shift my focus to appreciation by acknowledging the concerted efforts of both the government and the private sector to genuinely uplift women.
I was privileged to attend a high-level indaba hosted by the Women's Coalition of Zimbabwe on July 9 at the Holiday Inn in Harare. The gathering brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from Old Mutual, CABS, the Ministry of Women's Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, the Zimbabwe Women's Microfinance Bank, the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Praz), the United Nations Development Programme, the Women's Academy for Leadership and Excellence, civil society organisations such as Padare, and esteemed religious leaders.
The discussions centred on strengthening women's leadership and expanding their participation in community decision-making, with particular emphasis on localising United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which recognises the importance of women's equal participation in promoting and maintaining peace and security.
Throughout the proceedings, one message stood out clearly: there is a genuine push to create sustainable ecosystems that enable women to thrive in business, whether as individuals or through collective enterprises.
The Zimbabwe Women's Microfinance Bank is playing a pivotal role by offering tailored credit facilities that help bridge the financing gap for small-scale vendors, farmers and entrepreneurs. Through rigorous risk assessments and targeted financial support, the bank is helping women transition from subsistence activities to formal, profitable businesses.
Complementing these efforts, Old Mutual and CABS are providing innovative financial solutions such as the Mukando group savings scheme. These schemes have become powerful vehicles for wealth creation. By pooling resources, women are generating returns that significantly outperform those of dormant savings accounts, while creating reliable safety nets and much-needed capital for business expansion.
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I have written about the Mukando concept before, and it is encouraging to see established financial institutions providing the secure and structured support these savings groups need to flourish.
Praz also presented an encouraging outlook, noting that the legislative environment is becoming increasingly supportive of women-owned businesses. Officials emphasised that women-led enterprises that submit well-prepared and compliant applications are well positioned to secure government tenders, opening the door to significant state procurement opportunities.
Equally commendable is the work being undertaken by the Ministry of Women's Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development. Through partnerships with financial institutions, the ministry has prioritised financial literacy, reaching more than five million women across Zimbabwe between 2025 and 2026. These programmes are equipping women with the knowledge and skills needed to manage, grow and, safeguard their investments.
It is equally important to recognise the role that men are playing in advancing gender equality. Organisations such as HeForShe and Padare have committed themselves to championing women's rights and promoting inclusivity. Their involvement reinforces an important truth: gender equality is not solely a women's issue — it is a national development imperative that requires the participation of everyone.
In Shona, we say, Vanofanira kutendwa, ngavatendwe — those who deserve gratitude should indeed be thanked. It is important to acknowledge the progress that has been made.
As a small business owner, seeing this convergence of policy, finance and, advocacy leaves me feeling both empowered and optimistic. While we have not yet reached our destination, we have undoubtedly moved far beyond the days when a woman's role was confined to the domestic sphere.
I encourage every Zimbabwean woman to embrace these opportunities, engage with the institutions that are opening their doors, and take ownership of her economic future. The tide is turning. The support systems are growing stronger. The opportunities are there for those willing to seize them.
Times are changing, and it is up to us to make the very best of them.