Staff Reporter
In a bold step toward inclusive democracy, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has launched its Gender and Disability Inclusion Policies alongside its 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, aimed at transforming the country’s electoral landscape.
The landmark initiative was officially unveiled in Harare, yesterday, marking a significant shift in how Zimbabwe approaches voter inclusion, especially for women and persons with disabilities.
At the heart of the new framework is a commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of gender or physical ability, have equal access to every aspect of the electoral process.
This includes voter registration, education, candidacy, and infrastructure accessibility at polling stations.
The initiative aligns with the country’s broader national goals under Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which emphasises inclusive governance and social equity.
Speaking at the launch, ZEC Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba emphasised that successful implementation hinges on the activated participation of all stakeholders.
“We want to affirm our commitment to ensuring every citizen is afforded an opportunity to exercise their democratic rights. The gender policy provides equal opportunities for men and women to actively participate in democratic elections, which advance gender equality and inclusivity,” she said.
The policies and strategic plan reflect a growing recognition that true democracy must be accessible to all.
As such, the ZEC aims not only to improve the electoral experience but also to empower traditionally marginalised groups to engage more fully in national decision-making processes.
Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Norbert Mazungunye, praised the initiative, emphasising that equal participation is vital to realising Zimbabwe’s development goals.
“The policies, including the strategic plan, are tailor-made to enhance equal participation of all stakeholders in electoral processes. Gender mainstreaming is important because it ensures men and women have equal rights in society,” he said.
The launch event attracted a diverse audience of stakeholders, including representatives from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, the National Disability Board, UN Women, and various civil society organisations focused on inclusive governance.
Following the launch, ZEC will begin a nationwide stakeholder engagement campaign to operationalise the new frameworks and prepare for the next electoral cycle.
With these inclusive policies in place, Zimbabwe takes a significant step toward building a more representative and participatory democracy—one where every voice truly counts.
