By Elishamai Ziumbwa
A high-level delegation led by Sweden’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Nicola Clase concluded a week-long assessment mission to Zimbabwe, applauding the country’s strides in advancing gender equality while urging sustained drive in implementing existing reforms.
The delegation which reviewed UN Women’s programs and the broader UN system’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s national development goals met with top government officials and stakeholders across the country.
“We have been warmly welcomed in this beautiful country. Our mission focused on evaluating how UN Women and the UN system support Zimbabwe’s gender equality and women’s empowerment efforts. It has been a productive and encouraging visit,” said Ambassador Clase
The team met with President Mnangagwa praising the government’s adoption of the High-Level Political Compact on Ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices.
Deliberations also touched on the importance of ensuring access to quality education for girls a pillar for long-term gender equity.
Meetings were also held with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Women Affairs, the Speaker of Parliament, traditional leaders, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and ZIMSTAT.
The delegation highlighted the value of inclusive dialogue across sectors to build momentum toward gender-responsive development.
The visit included tours of UN Women-supported initiatives in Bulawayo, Umzingwane, Murewa, and Epworth. These projects showcased on-the-ground progress from safe markets to digital innovation hubs providing tangible evidence of how international partnerships are transforming women’s lives.
Ambassador Clase highlighted five key takeaways from the mission and this included strong legal frameworks for gender equality, but effective implementation remains a top priority.
“UN Women is playing a crucial role under often challenging circumstances. There is promising collaboration across the UN system, with over 80 percent of UN efforts contributing to gender equality,” Ambassador Clase said
The ambassador praised the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator and the Regional Office in supporting a unified approach to women’s empowerment.
