Rural Women Take Center Stage: International Day of Rural Women to be Celebrated in Mutoko

By Ilyana Sithole

In recognition of the critical role rural women play in Zimbabwe’s development, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development is hosting the national launch of the 2024 International Day of Rural Women (IDRW) commemorations.

The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, (Senator) Monica Mutsvangwa, addressed stakeholders and the media, highlighting the theme for 2024: “Rural Women Confront the Global Cost of Living.”

Minister Mutsvangwa emphasized the immense contribution rural women make, constituting a staggering 61% of farmers and providing 70% of the agricultural workforce, according to the 2019 Women and Men in Zimbabwe Report (ZIMSTAT). These women are responsible for nourishing families and sustaining communities, often working tirelessly for up to 18 hours a day.

Despite their vital role, rural women face significant challenges. Limited access to resources, education, and healthcare disproportionately impacts them. The Minister acknowledged these hardships and stressed the importance of celebrating their achievements while addressing these inequalities.

The IDRW launch aims to:
* Raise awareness about rural women’s contributions and the challenges they confront.
* Promote gender equality and empower rural women.
* Encourage policy support and investment to reduce the cost of living for rural women.
* Raise awareness on child marriages, intimate partner violence, and other forms of gender-based violence.
* Share information on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable livelihoods for women and girls.

The launch promises to be a day of empowerment and celebration. Attendees will enjoy exhibitions, entertainment, and access to crucial services like financial and legal advice, healthcare, and informative presentations on food systems, climate change, education, and health. Additionally, outstanding rural women will be recognized and awarded for their achievements.

The Minister extended a warm invitation to all Zimbabweans to participate in the launch, which will be held on October 18th, 2024, at Chiutsi Secondary School, Chiutsi Village, Ward 6, in Mutoko District, Mashonaland East Province. The venue is strategically chosen, located just kilometers away from a thriving agri-business project run by 36 women utilizing solar-powered piped water irrigation. This launch serves as a powerful symbol of the potential and resilience of rural women in Zimbabwe.