Harare Residence Association Holds Gender and Social Accountability Workshop
By Memory Chivhunga
The Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) recently held a one-day workshop aimed at fostering gender equality and enhance social accountability within local authorities.
The workshop focused on raising awareness about gender issues and social accountability, with an emphasis on educating Harare City Councillors.
The event saw the participation of key figures committed to advancing these causes, including representatives from Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA) and the Women in Politics Support Unit (WiPSU).
In her address, WiPSU executive director Sakhile Sifelani Ngoma shed light on the stark reality of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), revealing that a staggering 16,444 victims had reported cases in Harare.
“There should be an understanding of the importance of women’s representation in local authorities,” said Ngoma, underlining the significance of women participating in decision-making processes.
Ngoma’s presentations delved into the crucial role women play in local governance and how their active involvement can contribute to the reduction and prevention of gender-based violence.
David Matumbike, the director of the Local Governance Trust, provided valuable insights into the social contract and constitutional principles.
Engaging in a conversation with the attending councillors, Matumbike underscored the need for a key agent in citizen mobilization and the development of ward development committees.
The workshop coincided with the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, with speakers collectively stressing the importance of women’s representation in various positions of influence.
