Story by Godfrey M. Bonda
TYNWALD – The women’s empowerment group Sisters for Economic Development (Sisters 4 ED) has thrown its support behind the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, saying the legislation will promote stability and enable development policies to bear fruit in line with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda.
Speaking during a gathering held at Tynwald today, the organisation’s spokesperson Cde Nyasha Takaedza said the group supports the amendment as part of its commitment to national progress and economic stability.
“We stand for progress and stability. As Sisters 4 ED we say yes to Amendment Bill Number 3 because it allows national policies to bear fruit in line with Vision 2030,” said Cde Takaedza.
Representatives from various provinces also voiced their support for the amendment while highlighting development projects implemented under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Pamela Dzapasi, representing Harare Province, said members from the capital fully support the amendment while acknowledging infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Government, including the construction of the Trabablas Interchange.
From Mashonaland East Province, Cde Dorothy Tinarwo applauded the construction of Machekeranwa Dam in Marondera, describing it as an important development initiative that will support water supply and agricultural activities in the region.
In Manicaland Province, Cde Musapa cited irrigation development in Makoni District as a success that has improved agricultural productivity and livelihoods for local communities.
“Sisters 4 ED in Manicaland is supporting Amendment Bill Number 3 as we move towards Vision 2030,” she said.
Representatives from Mashonaland Central also pointed to developments in the mining sector, noting that employment opportunities had increased while community awareness campaigns have contributed to a reduction in drug and substance abuse among young people.
Nokuthula Manhande from Matabeleland said the province also supports the amendment, citing development initiatives such as the Pomona waste-to-energy project and other infrastructure programmes.
In Masvingo Province, Cde Elizabeth highlighted improvements in road networks and irrigation systems in districts such as Gutu, adding that further infrastructure developments including a flyover are expected in the province.
Meanwhile, Cde Theodorah Mativenga from Midlands Province said empowerment programmes such as tree planting initiatives were helping communities generate income and strengthen local economic participation.
Sisters 4 ED, which was founded by seven women with strong political and leadership backgrounds, aims to empower women to actively participate in Zimbabwe’s economic development. Founding members include Yolanda Gondo, Lilian Chatyora and Memory Chuma.
Speaking at the event, Memory Chuma called for increased membership and the mobilisation of new voters while reiterating the organisation’s support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
Co-founder Cde Yolanda Gondo said the organisation’s vision is to ensure that women are not mere spectators in the economy but active participants in national development.
“Our goal is to make women active participants in the economy,” she said.
Members from the organisation’s ten provincial structures also emphasised the need for inclusive development, stressing that no woman should be left behind as Zimbabwe advances toward Vision 2030.
The organisation concluded by reaffirming its support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 and its commitment to backing national development programmes.
