European Ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst Von Kirchmann
By Lisca Philo
Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann, the European Union Ambassador to Zimbabwe, has called for collective action against gender-based violence, emphasizing that it’s a responsibility that requires the efforts of everyone, regardless of age or gender.
Speaking at the HeForShe Solidarity March in Harare, Ambassador von Kirchmann stressed that ending GBV is a critical issue that demands continuous commitment from all sectors of society.
He noted that the European Union has been a strong partner in Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat GBV, with a significant financial contribution of over $300 million towards gender equality and women’s empowerment programs between 2021 and 2027.
“GBV has no place in our homes, workplaces, communities, or public spaces.
“We are committed to support Zimbabwe—and a world—where women and girls can live free from violence and discrimination and where men and boys are strong supporters of gender equality and women’s empowerment, ” he said.
The march, which was co-hosted by the EU, UN Women, and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Small and Medium Enterprise Development, brought together government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, and citizens to raise awareness about GBV and promote gender equality.
Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating GBV, highlighting the launch of the High-Level Political Compact on Ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices in 2021.
Ambassador von Kirchmann also called on men to take responsibility for their actions, saying “Men, I want to speak directly to you. We need to do better. Most cases of GBV are caused by men, and this must stop.”
He emphasized the importance of treating women and girls with dignity and respect, and standing up against violence wherever it occurs.
“Let’s start by treating women and girls with dignity and respect, by listening to their voices, valuing their contributions, and standing up against violence wherever we see it,” he added.
The event also marked the handover of the co-chairmanship of the HeForShe initiative from Ambassador von Kirchmann to Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Adler Aristilde.
Ambassador Aristilde expressed Canada’s readiness to champion the HeForShe initiative and build upon the strong foundation laid by the EU, emphasizing that gender equality is a fundamental human right and a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.
Ambassador von Kirchmann encouraged everyone to continue talking about GBV, not just during the 16 Days of Activism but every day.
“Let’s keep going. Let’s keep talking about GBV, not just during the 16 Days of Activism but every day,” he said.
The HeForShe Solidarity March is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about GBV and strengthen partnerships among government, international organizations, and civil society.
With Canada now leading the HeForShe movement in Zimbabwe, stakeholders anticipate a reinvigorated approach to tackling GBV, leveraging diplomatic influence, funding, and grassroots activism to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
According to Ambassador von Kirchmann, an alarming 42.5% of Zimbabwean women have experienced GBV at the hands of people closest to them, making it a critical issue that requires immediate attention.
“We need to do better. 42.5% of women in Zimbabwe experience GBV, often at the hands of those closest to them. That means almost every second woman you see here today has experienced GBV,” he said.
These statitics are a stark reminder of the deep-seated inequalities and injustices that persist in our society, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, communities, and nations as a whole.
It has become imperative that the prevention and response to GBV is a fundamental human rights issue that requires a collective and sustained effort.
Ultimately, the elimination of GBV is not only a moral imperative, but a necessary step towards achieving a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world for all, where the rights and dignity of every individual are respected and protected.
