In a bid to enhance young women’s political participation in line with Zimbabwe’s constitution and regional and international commitments Zimbabwe has signed up to young women from different provinces of Zimbabwe have consensually called for robust quota systems as a means to gender equality. Section 124 (b) of Zimbabwe’s constitution provides a Proportional Representation quota system of 60 seats for women parliamentarians. The quota system comes to an end in 2023. However the same constitution extensively provides for gender equality and non-discrimination in all spheres of life including politics.

The road to 2018 Elections was unforgettable for young women who contested to be Councillors, Members of Parliament and Senators in different constituencies and provinces of Zimbabwe. This is what our 2018 #VoteRunLead Alumni had to say about their political journeys:

In commemoration of 16 Days Against GBV, we had a Women's Galore which was a space for young women to discuss body politics and celebrate their physical make-up. They spoke about how women's bodies communicate socially, culturally and even politically. There was also enlightenment on young women rights with their bodies and procedures to take if they wish to report any harassment. Women should not tolerate any harm or abuse that is directed to their bodies in any space!

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The Institute for Young Women Development (IYWD) notes with grave concern the continued stifling and disregard of youth participation in Zimbabwe’s political spheres. Continue Reading