Lupane women fired up: Women Urged to Soar High
As the world reflects on over 30 years since the Beijing Declaration Platform for Action, a pivotal agenda for women and girls outlining twelve critical areas for action, including violence against women, economic empowerment, political participation, and health; Women’s Institute for Leadership and Development (WILD) remains committed to fostering a world where women and girls have equal access to economic and leadership opportunities.
By Jabulile Siwela
As the world reflects on over 30 years since the Beijing Declaration Platform for Action, a pivotal agenda for women and girls outlining twelve critical areas for action, including violence against women, economic empowerment, political participation, and health; Women’s Institute for Leadership and Development (WILD) remains committed to fostering a world where women and girls have equal access to economic and leadership opportunities.
In this spirit, WILD organised International Women’s Day commemorations in Lupane, addressing the structural barriers that contribute to economic injustice and political exclusion while fostering discussions at both policy and community levels.
Born and raised in Lupane, MaNyathi, as she is affectionately known by local residents, was nurtured by her maternal grandmother, who played a pivotal role in her upbringing. Despite the economic crisis currently facing Zimbabwe, marked by inflation that has eroded savings and salaries, MaNyathi’s story is one of resilience. Although she became a widow at a young age, she has defied the odds, successfully raising children who are admired throughout Lupane, thanks to the strong foundation instilled in her by her grandmother.
The celebrations took place at the Lupane Women’s Centre, a venue that has empowered thousands of women with life-changing skills. The highlight was a dynamic engagement led by MaNyathi, who manages the vibrant and multi-award-winning social enterprise. She urged participants to seize the economic opportunities available in the country and to move away from reliance on their male counterparts.
“Bomama, there are many economic opportunities in our country. Let’s avoid ukukhongozela kubobaba (relying on men) and stand for ourselves,” MaNyathi encouraged, inspiring young women and girls to claim their place in the economy.
Trained as an educator at Bulawayo’s United College of Education, MaNyathi transitioned into Civil Society following her husband’s passing. She has faced numerous challenges in a male-dominated landscape, particularly in her role at the Women’s Centre, where her abilities have often been questioned by those adhering to patriarchal norms.
“I took the reins of the Lupane Women’s Centre from a white man after the leadership recognized my abilities and trusted that the Centre would be in good hands. I have faced many challenges, including scepticism about my qualifications from those who believed I was unfit to run this institution,” she recounted.
Women were encouraged to soar beyond limitations and actively participate in the economic landscape, addressing the challenges associated with competing alongside men. The rise in gender-based violence has been linked to women’s economic dependence on men.
“Bomama, let’s aim for the stars. Women must avoid relying on men, as this dependence increases our vulnerability to gender-based violence. Both men and women deserve to occupy economic spaces equally,” MaNyathi emphasized, motivating women to strive for greater heights and engage in key economic sectors.