Govt Pledges Stronger Support for Women’s Empowerment in Churches

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening women-led empowerment initiatives in faith-based organisations, saying women’s economic independence is a cornerstone of national development.

Speaking at the 75th anniversary celebrations of St Paul’s Anglican Church, Highfield Parish, on Saturday, Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, said the government was ready to work with churches to expand opportunities for women.

“The government loves and continues prioritising its people. When you empower a woman, you have empowered the whole nation. I urge all women here to identify projects and formulate groups so that you have access to government funding. I also encourage you to utilise the Women’s Microfinance, which offers financial support to women,” she said.

Women Embrace Empowerment Drive

Her call was met with enthusiasm by congregants, who said government support could transform their ongoing projects.

Mrs Noreen Ruziwa, Church Warden at St Paul’s Anglican Church, said women in the parish were already engaged in income-generating activities but needed financial backing to expand them.

“As the women congregants, we have poultry as well as savings and lending projects that need to be supported. If we get a financial boost, we are hopeful of a huge transformation in our projects and lives altogether,” Ruziwa said.

Church-Government Partnership

The clergy also pledged to continue working hand in hand with the government to uplift communities.

Father Wilfred Kanyemba, Vicar General of the Anglican Diocese of Harare, said churches have a long history of complementing state efforts in improving livelihoods.

“We have always worked with the government to develop communities and improve livelihoods. It is crucial to support government efforts because the overall objective is to build our nation, and the government cannot do it alone,” Kanyemba said.

Policy Push for Gender Equality

The government has, in recent years, rolled out policies aimed at promoting gender equity and women’s economic empowerment, including training programmes, microfinance facilities, and funding opportunities targeted at women-led projects.

Officials say partnerships with faith-based organisations will ensure such programmes reach more communities, particularly at the grassroots level.

With women in churches already engaged in savings, lending, and agricultural projects, authorities believe the collaboration could help unlock new streams of income, expand access to credit, and empower families economically.