Eunice Njovana vies for CEDAW top post

Zimbabwean women are consistently breaking barriers by attaining leadership positions in international and regional institutions.

Notably, Eunice Njovana, a distinguished feminist, is vying for a prominent role on the Committee of the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in elections scheduled for June 14, 2024, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The framework of the obligations under the CEDAW Convention is constructed on three main principles: the obligation to respect (equality in laws and policies); the obligation to protect (non-discrimination– direct and indirect) and the obligation fulfil (to uphold equality and eliminate gender discrimination in governance issues.

Zimbabwe is a signatory to the CEDAW since 1991 and upholds issues of equality. The support provided by the Government to Njovana is testimony to the Second Republic’s commitment to lifting up women in the circles of governance as well as international affairs.

Njovana made significant contributions to gender and women's issues during her tenure at Musasa Project and the United Nations Women. The Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development is throwing its weight behind Njovana's candidacy and has dispatched a campaign team to support her bid.

Njovana is following the footsteps of the likes of Dr Judith Kateera who has already made it as the Executive Director of the African Development Bank (AfDB) as well as SADC Deputy Executive Secretary Corporate Affairs. The Zimbabwean Government under President Mnangagwa recognizes and prioritizes women in senior and decision making positions.

Zimbabwe under President Mnangagwa, has seen more women being appointed Ambassadors and Ministers. This testifies that the leadership is committed to supporting women in their endeavor to hold influential positions.

Zimbabwe's participation in CEDAW is crucial, as Eunice Njovana's representation will voice the needs and priorities of women from the country and region on the global stage, ensuring their concerns are addressed by the committee. This role also affords her the opportunity to contribute to international decision-making discourse, shaping global policies that impact women's lives.