UNDP Zimbabwe recognizes that gender inequality and discrimination remains a major obstacle to development in Zimbabwe. Women and girls continue to face numerous challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Gender-based violence is also prevalent in Zimbabwe, with many women and girls experiencing physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.

To address these challenges, UNDP Zimbabwe has prioritized gender equality and women's empowerment in its development programs. Through partnerships with government, civil society organizations, and the private sector, UNDP Zimbabwe is working to promote gender-responsive policies, laws, and practices, and to ensure that women and girls have equal access to resources, services, and opportunities.

Some of the key initiatives that UNDP Zimbabwe has undertaken to promote gender equality and women's empowerment include:

1. Women's Economic Empowerment

We are working to promote women's economic empowerment by supporting the development of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) owned by women. UNDP Zimbabwe is providing training, mentoring, and financial support to women entrepreneurs. The ultimate aim to enable women to grow their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to Zimbabwe's economic development.

2. Gender-Based Violence Prevention

We are working with partners to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV) in Zimbabwe. Through its Spotlight Initiative, UNDP Zimbabwe is working with other UN agencies to support the government and civil society to strengthen GBV prevention and response mechanisms, including health, legal, and counseling services for survivors of GBV.

3. Women's Political Participation

UNDP Zimbabwe is supporting women's political participation and leadership. Our aim is to increase the number of women in decision-making positions in Zimbabwe, including in parliament and local government.

4. Gender-Responsive Budgeting

UNDP Zimbabwe is working with the government to promote gender-responsive budgeting, which aims to ensure that government budgets address the specific needs and priorities of women and men. We have providing training and technical support to government officials to integrate gender considerations into budgeting processes.

5. Women's Health and Wellbeing

We are working with partners on initiatives to improve women's health and wellbeing in Zimbabwe. Through the Global Fund programme and with the Ministry of Health and Child Care's leadership, UNDP Zimbabwe is working to reduce the impact of HIV and AIDS on women and girls. The project supports HIV testing and counseling, treatment, and support services to women and girls affected by HIV and AIDS.

UNDP Zimbabwe remains committed to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in Zimbabwe. Through its programs and initiatives, it aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society where women and girls can reach their full potential.