Empowerment and Leadership: A Vision for Women in Zimbabwe
Women from all corners of Zimbabwe came together for a vibrant empowerment bush luncheon, hosted by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa. The event served as a platform for women to discuss their challenges, share ideas, and explore opportunities for economic and social progress.
Dr Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of women taking charge of their destinies, urging them to rise above obstacles and uphold integrity. She highlighted that women must not be associated with failure but should instead focus on hard work, results, and leadership. Her vision is for women to reclaim their space, unlock their potential, and engage in meaningful projects that uplift their families, communities, and the nation.
The event, held last Saturday, was part of an ongoing empowerment initiative launched by the First Lady last year. It brought together seasoned and aspiring businesswomen, along with representatives from government ministries, departments, parastatals, and the private sector. These participants presented various business opportunities available to women across different sectors, creating a lively exchange for those eager to start businesses or expand existing ones.
Participants explored opportunities in clean energy, transport, infrastructure, land development, construction, and emerging sectors such as biogas. The event also attracted elderly women who were eager to learn, creating a space for mentorship, experience sharing, and insights on how women can tap into fast-growing areas of the economy.
The open-air venue, set in a rural setting, provided a refreshing backdrop with cows and goats grazing freely, and chickens darting about. Guests mingled under the trees and stars while enjoying mouth-watering dishes.
A Call for Courage and Leadership
Dr Mnangagwa urged women to lead from the front, emphasizing that they must rise above challenges and remain strong and resilient. She shared her belief that women should not be associated with failure and that each time they face challenges, they should reflect on their role and continue to push forward.
“I do not work with failure, laziness, or dishonesty. We must be known for our hard work, integrity, and results,” she said. “Many women I started with are now establishing their names, some have even travelled to Spain and other countries, achieving remarkable success through determination and commitment.”
She added that a courageous woman produces results, and failure to do so often leads to social injustice. “I want every woman to become her own boss, driving her own business and her own success. Where there is no progress, there is often gossip, indiscipline, or lack of focus. Let us rise above such behavior and show leadership through action.”
Dr Mnangagwa also highlighted the importance of unity and support among women. She expressed concern about inheritance issues affecting women, noting that when a husband passes away, women’s contributions are often overlooked, and their names are not recorded on family assets or documents. “To my daughters and sisters, when you find yourself in a difficult situation, stand firm and take responsibility. Be strong enough to lead your household and protect what you have worked for.”
Government and Private Sector Support
The First Lady commended the Government for its supportive role towards women, noting that it walks side by side with them, guiding, training, and uplifting them to fulfill their responsibilities with purpose and dignity.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi paid glowing tribute to Dr Mnangagwa, highlighting her continued efforts to empower women. “Our First Lady is a woman divinely chosen and empowered to inspire and guide women. She leaves no one and no place behind, reaching even the San people in the remotest corners of Tsholotsho and Doma in Kanyemba. Amai’s work is truly inclusive, touching every life without discrimination.”
Participants were given the floor to propose business ideas, presenting a variety of innovative concepts. They emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in turning ideas into viable enterprises, noting that women are increasingly taking the lead in industries once considered male-dominated.
Prominent Reverend Nelly Gwatidzo encouraged women to take action, saying: “Women, tisagarira maoko haasi chair (let us not sit idle). Our mother is saying we should find something to do. Even those who are formally employed should have a side hustle that brings in extra income.”
Gogo Angelica Mumba praised the First Lady for initiating the business forum, describing it as one of the most inspiring and uplifting gatherings she had ever attended. “In all my years, I have never seen anything like this. To see women coming together to share ideas, learn from one another, and be encouraged to start their own businesses is truly remarkable.”
Zimpapers’ first female editor of its flagship newspaper, The Herald, Victoria Ruzvidzo, noted that each time such meetings are held, progress is evident. “Women are succeeding. As media, we are there to profile stories of success spearheaded by women leaders.”
Opportunities and Collaboration
Among the institutions that shared business opportunities were ZimTrade, the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority, ZimParks, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation, and several private-sector organizations offering mentorship, financing, and capacity-building support. Government ministries, including Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development; Industry and Commerce; Tourism and Hospitality Industry; and Energy and Power Development, also shared available business opportunities for women within their portfolios.
