Australian Embassy “steps it up” for gender equality
8 March 2016
Over 250 women and men from different walks of life came together for a 5km “Power Walk” to mark International Women’s Day – symbolic of this year’s theme, “Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality”, organised by the Embassies of Australia and Sweden, the Danish Embassy Office, the EU Delegation in Zimbabwe and UN Women.
Before the walk, the Australian Ambassador to Zimbabwe H.E. Suzanne McCourt welcomed guests, including Government officials (including members of the Gender Commission), representatives from other embassies, UN officials, business community, civil society, and friends of the Embassy. In her speech, Ambassador McCourt highlighted the need for an environment where women and girls have equal rights and opportunities, and can reach their full potential – a critical part of implementing and achieving the globally agreed Sustainable Development Goals to be reached by 2030.
Ms Signe Skovbakke Winding Albjerg, Charges d’Affaires at the Royal Danish Embassy Office, highlighted the importance of Denmark’s work with partners such as UNWomen and UNICEF in fighting gender based violence in Zimbabwe, saying “today we are stepping it up for gender equality in Zimbabwe, as part of a larger global women's movement, where we all have to take steps to make gender equality a lived reality”.
This speech was followed by a lively and bracing warm-up led by embassy officials. The Power Walk then wound through the Borrowdale neighbourhood, starting and finishing at the Australian Embassy in Harare. Participants enjoyed the chance to show solidarity and get to know each other in a relaxed environment.
After the walk, Swedish Ambassador Lars Ronnås spoke on behalf the EU. He emphasised two of the Sustainable Development Goals – number 5 on Gender Equality, and number 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, highlighting that gender equality is a necessity if investments in education and health are to bring about good returns to society. He also emphasised that it was critical for men to be involved in efforts to promote gender equality.
Adding her voice to the call for advances to gender equality by 2030, UN Women Coutnry Representative, Delphine Serumaga thanked all present, and encouraged everyone to continue contributing to efforts towards the achievement of gender equality.
The speeches were followed by performances by talented musicians Tariro neGitare and Hope Masike.
