Marching Forward: A Year-Round Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

By Ilyana Sithole

In a strong display of unity and resilience, hundreds turned out yesterday to march in solidarity against gender-based violence and reiterated a commitment that will not be deterred by current challenges, including the suspension of U.S. foreign aid. EU Ambassador H.E. Jobst von Kirchmann gave an inspiring speech, reigniting hope among gender enthusiasts and calling for continued advocacy and action.

The march, which wound its way through the streets of Harare, served to remind people that GBV is a problem widespread, having affected nearly 42.5% of the women in Zimbabwe. “Today, we do not just march; we are making a statement,” said von Kirchmann. “A statement that GBV has no place in our homes, workplaces, communities, or public spaces.”

In a significant transition, leadership of the HeForShe Campaign Group of Diplomats in Zimbabwe has been taken over by His Excellency Ambassador Adler Aristilde of Canada. As a father of 17-year-old twin girls, Ambassador Aristilde is not only committed to the fight for gender equality but personally invested in creating a world in which his daughters—and all women—can thrive free from violence and discrimination.

“I want my daughters to grow up in a GBV free world that ensures gender equality and the empowerment of women,” he said. “This isn’t only a battle among women; this is a struggle for generations to come. We need to eliminate GBV—not just as an intervention, but a daily practice.”

Ambassador Aristilde said this would include instituting a whole male engagement approach, understanding that men and boys are an essential part of finding solutions to GBV’s underlying causes. “We have to bring onboard men in the fight as allies, treating women with respect and dignity,” he said. “Together, we can break the cycle of violence.”

The march has not only brought forth the concerns around GBV but also the collective efforts of Team Europe, which has committed more than €300 million between 2021 and 2027 to support critical programs aimed at empowering women and engaging men in the fight against GBV. The collaboration has been important in strengthening national efforts, proving that solidarity is the way forward to create lasting change.

With the HeForShe movement gaining size and stature, it is equally important that GBV conversation keeps alive throughout the year, not just during specific campaigns. “Let’s keep talking about GBV every day,” urged von Kirchmann. “Your presence matters, whether you’re a long-time advocate or learning about HeForShe for the first time.”

Now that the torch of leadership has been passed on to Ambassador Aristilde, it shines brighter than ever with commitments to eradicated GBV. This fight against GBV is not a seasonal event; rather, it is one long battle demanding ongoing dedication and actions from everybody throughout society.

With this, moving forward, it is clear what the call to action is: let’s all join hands together and fight to make sure the agenda of GBV eradication is fought each day. It is possible for us to be able to provide a world whereby everyone, regardless of gender, can live without violence and any form of discrimination. The journey continues, along with the hope for a better tomorrow for all women, men, and children.